Spectators witnessed a spectacular parade last Thursday at the pedestrianised High Street that danced its way to Hawley Wharf
Directed by leading choreographer David Blake and featuring a band of professional dancers, the parade saw young dancers illuminate Camden Town in a glowing procession – shining a light on Camden’s vibrant cultural spirit.
Young aspiring dancers and performers in Camden were invited to join specially tailored masterclass dance workshops and be a part of the final performance, which stretched on from dusk into the night. The surprise parade was seen by hundreds of residents and visitors as the dancers illuminated the iconic canal and lockside architecture.
Drawing with Light builds on the dynamic programme of events taking place as part of the High Street pedestrianisation trial. From public-led art installations and design competitions to musical showcases of local young talent, street parties, and a sustainable fashion show – the programme has platformed community-led creativity that reflects Camden’s diverse communities.
Alongside these headline events, the Camden High Street Cultural Programme is reimagining the space through bold new murals – the “Welcome to Camden High Street” mural by Miguel H. Cuar, and a collaborative piece outside Camden Town Station designed with HVH Arts and local young people.
Marking Black History Season
The Black-led Drawing with Light performance spotlighted the diversity that is Camden’s strength, and marked the midpoint of the Council’s celebrated Black History Season. With Black History Month drawing to a close, Camden Council is just getting started, with an exciting and enlightening array of events still to come as the season continues into the festive period.
This year’s theme for Black History Season is “Standing Firm in Power and Pride”, highlighting the lasting contributions made by Black leaders, activists and pioneers who have shaped history, while looking ahead to a future of unity for all.
Most events are free of charge, though some operate a “pay what you can” system where proceeds will support the Umoja Health Forum, a Camden and Islington based charity championing health and wellbeing in African and Caribbean communities.
Councillor Sabrina Francis, Cabinet Member for Jobs, Culture and Young People
“Through events like the Drawing with Light and the sustainable fashion catwalk, we’ve seen how culture can celebrate local talent, support the local creative economy, and reimagine public space – with thousands of people attending our events so far.
“This year’s theme for Black History Season is ‘Standing Firm in Power and Pride’, where we’re looking ahead to a future of unity – this spirit was powerfully embodied in Drawing with Light’s dazzling parade.”
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List of events still to come for Camden’s Black History Season:
Film screenings
· 7 November, 6pm – 8.30pm – ‘Frederick Douglass – My Path to Freedom’ Film Screening + Q&A
Venue: Clarence Hall
Entry: Pay What You Can
Overview:
o Visual retelling of Frederick Douglass’s life — from slavery to becoming a leading abolitionist, writer, and orator.
o Starring Devarnie Lothian as Douglass (set in 1844).
o Followed by a Q&A with the film’s directors and producers and lead actor, Devarnie Lothian.
o Audience: Social history buffs, US history fans, Hamilton musical enthusiasts.
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Talks and discussions
· 3 November, 7pm – Nigeria’s Story: Beat of the West (Hosted by KISS FM’s Henrie)
Venue: KOKO Café
Entry: Pay What You Can
Overview:
o A deep dive into the rise of Nigerian music (Afrobeats) and its global influence.
Hosted by BBC’s Eddie Kadi, with insights into the UK and Camden’s role in the movement.
Audience: Nigerian diaspora, Afrobeats fans, music lovers
· 5 November, 6pm – 8.30pm – African Leaders in Camden
Venue: Coal Drops Yard
Entry: Pay What You Can
Overview:
o Celebration of young African heritage leaders in Camden.
o Networking and inspiration event for 16–25-year-olds at the start of or transitioning in their careers.
o Focus on identity, excellence, and community.
o Audience: Students, young professionals, sixth forms, colleges, universities.
· 12 November, 6pm – 8.30pm – Author Talk with Allyson Williams MBE
Venue: Kilburn Library
Entry: Pay What You Can
Overview:
o Trailblazing midwife, educator, and cultural icon Allyson Williams MBE comes to Camden to share insights from her powerful autobiography, ‘Tell Me Something I Don’t Know’.
o Audience: Book lovers, history fans, inspiring stories
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Ongoing Exhibition
· 9 October – 11 December — Beyond Expectations: The Legacy of Black British Communities, Culture and Influence in Camden, 1960s–1970s
Venue: Swiss Cottage Gallery
Entry: Free
Overview:
o Features newly digitised photographs from the Neil Kenlock Archive.
o Celebrates Black British leadership, activism, and culture in Camden during the 1960s–70s.
o Marking the 60th anniversary of the Race Relations Act (1965).
o Audience: Art/photography lovers, Windrush generation, social historians
