Croydon Reveals Cultural Events Calendar For 2023

A cross-cultural series of events has just been revealed for This Is Croydon, with this cosy corner of the capital having recently been named as the London Borough of Culture for 2023… and the festival programme looks set to make a very real splash.

The schedule is long and varied, but some of the main highlights include Ontario of Hope, a new commission fronted by the London Mozart Players and Tarik O’Regan (educated in Croydon and Grammy nominated!) that showcases some of the cream of the crop of young local talent in the realms of music, spoken word, song, film, dance and visual art.

Another top pick that shouldn’t be missed is the Music Heritage Trail and exhibition, as well as the first-ever play about Croydon composer Samuel Coleridge-Taylor and a celebration of the 50th anniversary of hip hop, which will include a range of different events.

The year of celebrations will take place between April 2023 and March 2024, really shining a light on the borough’s identity, diverse communities, culture, heritage and creative heart.

The opening event will take place on April 1st, with Oratorio of Hope being held at Fairfield Halls. This composition involves more than 250 of Croydon’s young singers and instrumentalists, so it truly is one not to be missed.

Executive mayor of Croydon Jason Perry said: “Croydon is home to so many fantastic communities and our year as London Borough of Culture is a chance to celebrate and showcase what makes our borough so special - our people. 

“This Is Croydon is unique in that it is truly community-led, developed by our amazing local cultural organisations working in partnership with the council, creating opportunities for residents of all ages, from our borough and beyond. We look forward to welcoming you to Croydon.”

Last year, Lewisham took home the crown of Borough of Culture, while Hammersmith and Fulham, Haringey and Sutton all have Cultural Impact Award projects taking place between now and 2024.

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