Local performers parade through the streets of Roehampton as part of Urban Flow

The procession was the culmination of a coming together of three major organisations - India’s Attakkalari Centre for Movement Arts, UK arts charity Kinetika and Wandsworth’s own Tavaziva Dance. Urban Flow united community performers from India and Wandsworth borough in this colourful celebration that processed through the streets displaying a collection of colourful silk flags created in both India and the UK.

As the procession weaved through the streets it took pause outside landmark heritage buildings in the borough, showcasing captivating dance and martial arts displays, leading to a spectacular finale on Bull Green.

The piece featured a new score by acclaimed composer Rob Blake, who has composed for the likes of BMW, Red Bull, Puma, Arsenal FC and Citroen. Told in six parts, this original composition and the choreography follow the arc of a human journey: beginning with an intro, then moving through childhood, adolescence, chaos, transformation, and finally, triumph.

The collective of local performers included Pointe Black, Ibstock Place Primary and Secondary School, Base Youth Group, Roehampton University, Roehampton Street Band and Tai Chi Chuan.

Justine Simons OBE, Deputy Mayor for Culture and the Creative Industries, said: “Urban Flow brought creativity, inclusivity and fun to the streets of Roehampton this weekend. The spectacular parade of silk flags was a great way for communities to get involved and experience the power of culture first-hand. It was a fantastic addition to Wandsworth’s London Borough of Culture, as we continue to build a better London for everyone”.

Councillor Kemi Akinola said: “Urban Flow is a wonderful example of Roehampton at its best, with neighbours, families, and friends coming together to share something joyful and creative in the heart of the Alton. During our year as London Borough of Culture, we’re making sure everyone, including low-income families, have the chance to be part of events like this. And beyond culture, our Access for All programme is about spreading those same opportunities more widely across Wandsworth.”

This weekend’s activity also saw the unveiling of a new outdoor public artwork at Roehampton Library, The Four Seasons by artist Adalberto Lonardi, curated by Emergency Exit Arts and co-designed and painted with the local community. The mural has been created as part of the council's Alton Renewal Plan and traces a year of improvements on the Alton with the diverse communities that call it home. For more information visit welcometowandsworth.com.