It seemed to be a rather drizzly, typical Monday afternoon, in Islington Way until I was contacted about an event that was taking place at the Canon Hussey Court, Community Centre. At first, I was very sceptical about going to any events within that area, because of the negative impact these events have had in the past. However I was pleasantly surprised by the whole event.
The Cultural Day Event was organised by Julie Hudson, who has been a tenant of Canon Hussey Court for two years. Her vision was to bring all the minorities of Islington Way together, and integrate them into the community. After only speaking for several minutes to Julie, it was apparent that this person really cared for the wellbeing of the Islington Way Estate.
The event started with a swing, thanks to our own residential singer, Eileen Wilson, who is the co-owner of the Creation Café, located near Chapel Street. Eileen, an aspiring actress and singer songwriter, has been using her talents in the past, to raise money for various local charities. She started the show by singing some of her own musical compositions, and then went on to perform some outstanding jazz and soul tracks. I was astonished how the community of Islington Way, interacted with her performance. Nearly all of the participants were dancing and singing along to her jazz tunes.
Then it was time for a guest appearance from another actor and singer songwriter, Alexander James Valliant, whom in the past has had a professional solo singing career. He started with some Eighties music, that seemed, once again, to get everyone dancing and singing, and was followed by some modern dance, ending with a rock and roll climax.
This was the most inspiring event I have probably ever witnessed since moving to Salford, seven years ago. It shows that there are people, like Julie Hudson, who are fighting to restore communities, and bring some well deserved life and happiness back to the Islington Way Estate.
Words: Jimmy Coyne
Photos: TJ Chakotai
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