Early December saw the Westway Trust host two wintery themed events to welcome in the holiday season.
The first event, Tree Light Gathering, took place on Thursday 5 December at Thorpe Close. Visitors who gathered to see the Christmas tree lights being switched-on were treated to sparkling performances of toe- tapping Brazilian drums and carnival dancing from Samba Wednesday plus Christmas classics courtesy of the Portobello Players and young local performer Georgie.
Children received festive gifts from The Space whilst grown-ups browsed the rails at Garms Hub. Everyone tucked into warming hot chocolates from Cleanse Juice Bar and nourishing soups served by Portobello Shack, which provided a welcome respite from the wintery evening, all while children danced underneath foamy snowflakes.
A week later on 12 December, we hosted our second event, Portobello Green Arcade - A Musical Tour. This time visitors were taken on a journey around Portobello Green Arcade - Portobello Road’s most anomalous hidden gem. The musical tour, led by singer Sharon Harris, showcased the craft, characters and tales of the business owners whose stores make shopping there such a unique and creative experience.
In scenes that wouldn't look out of place in a Christmas movie, the tour ended with a stirring performance by Glissando Steel Youth Orchestra accompanied by ballet dancers Tabitha O Sullivan and Luke Buckely in full Nutcracker outfits. The arcade itself provided the perfect theatrical backdrop with wintery window displays and decorations provided by Our People and Pleroma Flowers and entrance pillars painted with motifs courtesy of Brian Okello (aka Bamboo Kid).
Thank you to everyone who attended our events and of course to all of the performers, tenants, and contributors who made the two evenings extra special!
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