Legends of Lime Avenue unique community celebration in Wisbech this weekend

Tomorrow (Saturday) local arts project MarketPlace hosts "Legends of Lime Avenue," a vibrant celebration of local stories and creativity in Wisbech.

This unique event, co-created with Waterlees community members, including pupils from Orchards C of E Academy and local residents, promises an afternoon and evening filled with music, storytelling, and puppetry.

Thanks to funding provided by Clarion Futures, the charitable foundation of Clarion Housing Group which owns and manages thousands of homes across Fenland, the festivities include a puppet theatre exhibition, music, fireside storytelling, and food. The evening will culminate with a special shadow puppet performance.

This family-friendly gathering offers a perfect opportunity for community members to connect, celebrate, and enjoy the rich tapestry of stories from Lime Avenue and its residents.

The event presents the culmination of extensive community collaboration, featuring work created by Orchards Academy pupils and Waterlees residents.

Acclaimed playwright Dan Allum has worked hand-in-hand with community members to develop an original script that weaves together local stories and legends, both past and present, centered around Lime Avenue.

Waterlees residents have been invited to craft their own lime leaf window decorations to light the walking trail route from the school to the Lime Avenue event arena.

Artist Liz Falconbridge has led engaging shadow puppet workshops at Orchards Academy, creating stunning visuals that will feature in the event's grand finale.

"Legends of Lime Avenue is more than just an event; it's a testament to the creativity and spirit of our community," says Rob Drummer, programme director at MarketPlace.

"With support from Clarion Futures, we're excited to bring together residents of all ages to share in this unique celebration of our local heritage and imagination."

Matt Parsonage, head of communities at Clarion Futures, added: “We’re delighted to be supporting this fantastic event which will be a chance for local people to have fun and take part in all sorts of activities. The team at MarketPlace has done a great job in collaborating with those living in and around the Waterlees estate, and this is the perfect way to celebrate all that this vibrant community has to offer.”

The timetable of events is as follows:

• 3pm: Puppet Theatre Exhibition at Orchard C of E Academy

• 4pm: Join us on Lime Avenue for music and hot drinks

• 4.30pm Fireside Storytelling

• 5pm: Free food

• 6pm: Puppet Theatre Performance

• 7pm: Event ends