NSCD RECIPIENT OF WINDRUSH DAY GRANT SCHEME

Northern School of Contemporary Dance (NSCD) is thrilled to announce that it is a proud recipient of the Windrush Day Grant Scheme funded by the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government and supported by Near Neighbours.

The award will assist the creation of In The Front Room, a new dance theatre work by Sharon Watson MBE DL and Dr Khadijah Ibrahiim FRSL, both descendants of Windrush families. Celebrating the lived experiences, resilience and cultural legacy of the Windrush generation, the piece blends dance, music and spoken word within an intimate “front room” setting.

Rooted in collaboration and artistic excellence, In The Front Room honours the Windrush generation while creating meaningful cultural experiences that resonate with diverse audiences. The project will be developed through community collaboration, centring community voices and drawing on the memories, stories and traditions of elders to shape its development. It will commemorate, celebrate and preserve the contributions of the Windrush generation and their descendants as an integral part of our shared history and cultural heritage.

Sharon Watson MBE DL, CEO and Principal of NSCD comments: 

“We are so pleased to have received this grant from the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government and support from Near Neighbours to bring In The Front Room to life. This project is a homage to the Windrush generation and a physical embodiment of the traditions and experiences which have enriched our local communities and the fabric of British society.”

Dr Khadijah Ibrahiim FRSL adds:

“At the heart of the performance are Doris and Wilfred, two Jamaican-born elders whose Sunday afternoon rituals unfold through domino games, cooking, dancing and conversation. Surrounded by the sounds of Desmond Dekker, Ken Boothe and Millie Small’s ‘My Boy Lollipop’, memories of Jamaica and life in England emerge with warmth, longing and laughter.”

Alongside performances, the project captures and preserves stories for future archival use, supporting long-term cultural visibility. It also engages local volunteers and schools, building awareness and understanding among younger generations.

Sharon continues:

“A key element of the project is its participatory approach. Windrush elders contribute through storytelling, presence, and cultural practices such as music, prayer, and social activity. This ensures authenticity while encouraging intergenerational exchange, pride, and recognition of heritage. We’re delighted to strengthen these voices in our community and preserve these stories for future generations.”

Khadijah notes:

“The Caribbean front room becomes more than a domestic setting; it is a living archive. These carefully preserved spaces reflected dignity, aspiration and cultural pride for many British Caribbean families adjusting to life in post-war England. ‘In The Front Room’ honours resilience, migration and belonging. The production invites elders and an audience to reflect on the emotional significance of home, reminding us that the objects and rituals within our own living spaces carry stories far beyond their material value – stories of survival, connection and legacy.”

In The Front Room will premiere on National Windrush Day, Monday 22^nd June, at Riley Theatre. Audiences are invited to join this powerful celebration of heritage, memory and community.

Secure your free ticket here.

Photo credits: Elly Welford Photography

Design: Dr Khadijah Ibrahiim FRSL