Newham Welcomes the World 2007 - 2012 ...

The New London Orchestra works with communities to create and perform new pieces inspired by their locality.

Patrons: Stephen TimmsMP for East Ham

Lyn Brown MP for West Ham

In Newham, the New London Orchestra has begun a long-term collaboration that started in January 2007. Every year from now to the Olympics in 2012 we will deliver a community-based music and arts project which focuses on a different aspect of this thriving and fast-changing area.

In 2007 our project celebrated the completion of the Eurostar terminal in Stratford and the beginning of a time of change and renewal in Newham. It was written by Hope Massiah and Ronald Corp and performed by over 400 children and adults from across Newham, and by members of the Newham Academy of Music.

The final performance of the 2007 project – The Journey Begins – took place at ExCel London on Wednesday 4th July.

In 2008, our project 'Pass the Baton' is in association with the Theatre Royal Stratford East. This cross-generational project will offer young people aged 16-22 the opportunity to create a new piece of musical theatre which is rooted in memories and experiences of older members of the Newham community. The project is a FREE musical theatre summer school which will culmniate in performances on 29 & 30 August at the Theatre Royal Stratford East.

Our vision is to be central to the artistic and cultural life of this rapidly changing area of East London. We will provide a means through which local residents can actively take part in new and life-enhancing activities, and be directly involved in major events which will shape the future of their neighbourhood.

Our vision is to deliver a unique, innovative and inclusive series of arts projects in Newham; to become integral to the cultural fabric of the area; and to build partnerships which raise the profile of all involved.