In celebration of Gypsy Roma Traveller History Month this June, there are three events taking place at the Forest Arts Centre, Old Milton Road, New Milton, Hampshire BH25 6DS:
‘From Heathland to Housing’: a free art exhibition
7 June 2017 – 17 June 2017
Monday – Friday: 9am until 5pm; Saturdays, 10am until 2.30pm
The exhibition features work from a number of artists, including some belonging to the Romany Gypsy community living in the New Forest.
Celebrate and Create: Traditional Arts & Crafts of the Forest – a day of Romany activities
Saturday 10 June 2017
The day includes:
11am – 3pm Drop in Workshop: Wagon painting and Creative Crafts Decorate an almost life-size traditional wagon with artists Carnival of Crows. There will also be all sorts of creative crafts to have a go at. Drop in for as long as you like. Suitable for all ages.11.30am – 12.30pm Theatre: Crystal’s Vardo. A play which explores one girl’s journey through her Romany family history. Suitable for ages 7+.
1.15pm & 2.15pm Workshop: Stepdance with Folk Active, using foot tapping and simple steps, create patterns that work with different rhythms to local Hampshire tunes. No previous experience necessary. Hard soled shoes advisable but not essential.
‘The Hither Side of the Hedge’: a performance of the songs and dances that Alice Gillington collected from New Forest Gypsies in the early 1900s
15 June 2017, 7.30pm
Plus before the performance, there will be an hour with Peter Ingram, featuring songs, stories and anecdotes on Gypsy life.
Tickets are £12 (£11 for concessions).
Find out more and book tickets at the Forest Arts Centre website. Our thanks to Janet Keet-Black, Vice President of the RTFHS, for letting us know about these events.
