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Award-winning Greenwich festival back this summer - highlighting Ukrainian struggles

The Greenwich festival is free to attend for families of all ages (photos: Greenwich and Docklands Festival)
The Greenwich festival is free to attend for families of all ages (photos: Greenwich and Docklands Festival)

An award-winning outdoor arts and theatre festival is coming to Greenwich this summer, showcasing artists from around the world.

Greenwich and Docklands International Festival 2022 will include an exhibition from Ukrainian artists, shining a light on the disaster the country has faced and reminding people of the rich cultural heritage in Ukraine.

The festival theme this year is Common Ground, which the festival say has been chosen “to remind people of the importance of shared values, rituals and togetherness.”

Bradley Hemmings MBE, the artistic director, said: “As we emerge from the pandemic, with growing economic challenges at home and terrifying events on our doorstep in Europe, I hope that this year’s festival will offer audiences a moment of sanctuary from the anxious times that we’ve been living through.

“It’s heartening that many of the incredible artists we’re working with this year are using the outdoors to offer us a glimpse of collective possibility and purpose.”

Across the 18 days of the festival, beginning August 26, there will be dance and theatre performances, fairground rides, and immersive art exhibitions for people of all ages in Greenwich to enjoy for free.

News Shopper: The lights display will be open from August 26 to August 27
News Shopper: The lights display will be open from August 26 to August 27

The lights display will be open from August 26 to August 27

This year, the festival has a record number of international artists from all around the world and opens with a huge light display created by Dutch artist Daan Roosegaarde.

Councillor Adel Khaireh, cabinet member for equality, communities and culture, said: “Our diverse and vibrant communities are what makes Royal Greenwich such a special place to live and grow up.

“The Royal Greenwich Festivals programme seeks to celebrate and connect us all through cultural activities, so we’re thrilled to be supporting Greenwich + Docklands International Festival as they explore the theme of Common Ground.

“I can’t wait to see residents of all ages enjoying the exciting programme of free theatre and arts events created this year.”

The festival will run from August 26 to September 11 and attendance is expected to exceed 80,000 people so make sure you don’t miss out.

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