Kingston 2025, a six month cultural event, has brought together local schools and youth groups last month to create Bridging Kingston: A Musical Odyssey - a one-off musical production at the Rose Theatre.

Working in collaboration with a professional composer, director and musicians, the scenes devised by the young creatives explored: 

• What everyday Saxons might have made of a coronation taking place in their market town in 925.
• English civil war action around Chessington Manor
• Local's reactions to Millais' Hogsmill visit for painting Ophelia 
• The innovation of the crocodile toy Snappity as a peacetime income spinner for aviation workers
• Poignant evacuation stories paralleled with the modern borough as a place of sanctuary  
• The growth of sustainable fashion among Kingston's Fashion designers 
• David Bowie's Kingston Uni gig  

Performers from Chessington Community College, Christ Church Primary School, Malden Parochial Primary School and youth group South Side Theatre Academy experienced the exhilaration of singing under the spotlights of a professional stage, and the opportunity to consider performing arts as a hobby, qualification or career option. 

Kingston 2025, which began in May, is a landmark cultural celebration across the Royal Borough of Kingston. There are lots of family events coming up soon as part of the diverse, six-month programme.

On 26 and 27 July, Canbury Gardens will become Athels Town, a Saxon encampment, complete with battle reenactments, a mediaeval farm and more.

Additionally, the River Cultures festival will take place on 6 September where an anthem from the show will be performed again, and Kingston Carnival will take place on 7 September.

You can find out more about the Kingston 2025 programme here.