Indian classical dance, yoga for pregnancy, environmental awareness, intuitive painting and mindfulness body movement are just some of the free taster classes available when Ashburton Hall hosts a Well-being Open Day on Saturday.
With a view to share and showcase the diverse talent that’s alive and well and living in Croydon, the day is also a great opportunity to open the doors to the public to demonstrate how the hall – http://ashburton-hall.co.uk/ – could operate as an accessible arts hub for the community.
The building in Ashburton Park, which has previously been home to a convent and a library, has recently undergone a major modernisation and is currently being managed by Deshi Arts, a creative partnership based in South Norwood. From March, the permanent operator, GLL, will take over the running of the building.
Managers Devaki Thomas and Shuba Rao are keen to show off to the public the beautiful studios within the hall, to see visitors participating in the free taster classes from some of the top artists and teachers in the region, viewing an art exhibition, and tasting Indian street food by new Croydon trader, Curry On Naanstop.
And the council wants to see residents embrace the hall’s offerings as Croydon strives to become the Mayor of London’s Borough of Culture 2019.
Councillor Timothy Godfrey, cabinet member for culture, leisure and sport
“This latest event is proof, if any were needed, that our decision to renovate this lovely old building, and return it to community use, was the right one.
“The building has a range of spaces, with two halls, four smaller workshops and meeting rooms, and a café area that can hold about 150 people.
“The range of taster sessions lined up for the Well-being Open Day promises to genuinely offer something for everyone, and really underline just what a valuable facility is available for them for years to come.”
The full schedule, running from 10am to 3pm on Saturday (20), can be viewed at Well-being Open Day.
