A week of colourful celebration in Holyrood

Organised by ZoieLogic Dance Theatre in collaboration with estate residents, the event opened with a party and silent disco and culminated with a carnival procession through the estate. All 2,500 Holyrood residents were encouraged to join in throughout the week to celebrate the estate’s diversity and inclusiveness. Activities included dance workshops, a dancing litter pick-up competition, and the premiere of a music video featuring young residents. The exciting new video entitled ‘Culture is Life’ showcases the voices, talents, and experiences of local young people from Holyrood.

The festival is the latest initiative as part of the We are Holyrood project as Zoie Golding MBE, founder and CEO of ZoieLogic Dance Theatre, explains, "We want to create spaces where everyone feels they belong. Which is especially important for those who often miss out or feel left out. Through dance and cultural activities, we aim to help people live happier, healthier and more creative lives. The Holyrood estate is one of the most diverse areas in Southampton, with more than 25 languages spoken but with many young residents living in low-income families. The festival offered a week of free activities designed to engage and unite the community.”

Local resident Lynda says the festival was a chance to have fun, connect with other residents and celebrate the local neighbourhood: "There were many people still out after The Holyrood Hub had closed for the day, we had a water fight and there was so much laughter. Adults and kids all together, this only happens because you make us feel like a community. This gathering is the stuff of life.”