Homage to Canning Town African Ancestors
Discovering the history and contributions of Africans in and around Canning Town since the 1920’s.
The Homage to Canning Town African Ancestors project explored the areas in and around Canning Town that have historical links with Africa.
Further to this, our research included details of how the Canning Town area has changed over the years and the contributions that Africans have made to the community during this time.
The research findings were shared with members of the public via a performance and exhibitions at Grassroots in West Ham, E15.
Feedback from Exhibition and Showcase
“I had a really good time attending your event. I enjoyed doing the quiz before the show and by doing so I have learnt a lot of the history in Canning Town which I have shared with my colleagues and friends.”
— Hayette
“I really enjoyed the performance last week. It was a highly interesting subject, and the passion and enjoyment in the performers themselves made it a superb experience. I really hope more people (especially schools in the area) get the chance to see this production. Looking forward to seeing another one soon.”
— Alexa
“Homage to Canning Town African Ancestors” a heritage project, was extremely uplifting as a performance, and the exhibition was very informative. The performance powerfully conjured up the sense of saluting the past and our African East End Ancestors…”
— Ego Ahaiwe
“The exhibition was very interesting. The new multicultural identity of London can be better understood and appreciated looking at the history of its communities.”
— Luca Lionello
“A fascinating insight into London’s history. Thank you for enlightening me.”
— Ade Solanke
“I greatly enjoyed the performance last week – I was fascinated by the amount of interesting historical detail relayed through the lively and engaging performance…”
— Paul Thompson
Project Partners & Support
- African Divo Arts
- University College London
- Media Trust
- St. John’s Church, Stratford
- Newham Volunteers
