Local organisations such as press houses, the media and local business gathered in droves in the heart of Ely to watch the engaging presentation.

The Christmas Pantomime which will see the cast Paul Cassaro (Robin Hood), Elisha Hancock (Little Joan), Maid Marion (Nancy Doubledee), Tommy Carmichael (Silly Willy Scarlett), Rob Stevens (Auntie Dolly), James Sterling (Sheriff of Nottingham) is one not to be missed this Christmas. 

The Mesmerising show, which will run from December 8th to January 3rd, has already made circles in Ely where an impressive 50% of tickets have already been sold. It is estimated that over 10,500 people are expected to take their seats to watch the fabulous cast; making 2023 a Christmas to remember.

Ely’s greatest Pantomime adventure presentation saw KD Theatre owners Daniel Bell and Katherine Hickmott alongside the full cast. When asked what Robin Hood has to offer from other Pantomimes, Daniel said: “It’s brand new and written for Ely audiences. We’re celebrating local.” Daniel added, “I’m most looking forward to the public seeing the set and costumes. They are visually stunning. We’re also welcoming new cast members to this theatre production.”

Austen Dack, PR and Marketing representative for KD Theatre Productions, who led the presentation  and has seen KD Theatre deliver six pantomimes, said: “This year at KD Theatre we’re seeing family dynamics changing every year. The population of Ely has increased, and we’re promoting at Ben’s Yard, and we’ve been doing a leaflet drop.”

With its loyal local sponsors such as the Prince Albert, Apex Coffee House, The Maltings and Poets House among others, and its 80,000 strong social media reach last year alone; Robin Hood has local support for its magnificent local production. 

For businesses eager to become part of this magical experience and support the Robin Hood pantomime, please contact Austen Dack at austen@chippychat.co.uk.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to be part of the magic this Christmas. Tickets for Robin Hood are selling fast and can be purchased online at kdtheatre.co.uk5 or by calling 01353 725 026.

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FRESH. which focuses on community, health, inclusion and sustainability, launched a crowd funder three years ago. The crowd funder raised £1,435 through individual donations, clothes swap events like the “Swish” from Ely Swishing Group, plant sales, funding from the Rotary Club of Ely, Cambridgeshire, Lloyds Bank and community initiative classes. All funds raised went directly towards the cost of the ramp. In total, FRESH. and its community has raised £4,398!

At Spotted in Ely, we’re really pleased to have been able to support them along the way.

As well as memberships and Pay As You Go options, they also provide its community with subsidised classes.

When asked about her thoughts, now the ramp has been completed, Sara Ford, co-founder from FRESH. said “We’re super, super excited and emotional. It’s been a huge thing fundraising for three years for everyone, and now we can open it up.” The ramp will provide access to wheelchair users, seniors, and parents with pushchairs and will give people a real sense of independence and the confidence to come in.

The ramp, which has taken a solid week to complete, amongst other work, was partly subsidised by Ely Carpentry and Construction. When asked about how he feels about the project, Ben Wood a carpenter from Ely Carpentry and Construction, who shares 30 years’ experience with his business partner Ashley Moodliar, said: “All round making the ramp has been a great opportunity. Lots of people can now access FRESH. It also helps us to get our name out and give something back to the community.”

The work also helps to make the on-site cafe, Prosper more accessible, allowing more people to attend the variety of workshops on offer.

To find out more about FRESH. or to attend a class, their website can be found here: https://www.freshandwell.co.uk/ 

The post FRESH. In Ely Rolls Out The Ramp! Making Their Studio Fully Accessible To The Public appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

The exhibition which was held at Ely Cathedral between 1st July and 26th July 2023 represented the book of Genesis, the first book in the Bible. Visitors to the cathedral were immersed in a sea of hand-dyed, vibrant materials, including gold leaf and leather. 

The twelve silk panels which measured 2.5m / 8ft high and up to 4m / 13ft wide boasted pieces of hand stitched beauty including the mysterious beauty of The Garden of Eden, featuring a breathtaking tapestry of Adam and Eve, surrounded by the animals of the biblical garden.

One particular panel which artist Jacqui Parkinson labelled “God rested – and it was all good” featured a huge cross in its centre, depicting the completion of God’s hard work and his right to rest.

The exhibition which was attended by visitors far and wide, showcased a collection of souvenirs including A4 fine art prints and colourful bookmarks. Visitors could also sign a Visitor’s Book to mark the occasion. 

An exclusive offering from the artist is a free download of her online PDF ‘Behind the scenes,’ which includes new information about Jacqui’s stitching techniques which can be found here: https://www.jacqui-textile.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Behind-the-scenes-of-Threads-through-Creation-January-2023.pdf 

Ely Cathedral is hoping to be hosting another of Jacqui Parkinson’s exhibitions in May and June 2025.

Upcoming events held at Ely Cathedral can be found on the Cathedral’s official website: https://www.elycathedral.org/events

Threads Through Creation Exhibition at Ely Cathedral.

Photo Credit: Avril Kavanagh

The post Eight Million Stitches; Twelve Silk Panels: Looking Back At Threads Through Creation At Ely Cathedral appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

The exhibition which is held at the Babylon Arts Gallery in Ely, defines the philosophy of Ubuntu, derived from the Bantu languages of Africa, highlights the importance of showing compassion and humanity towards others.

Within the exhibition, Bethany Haysom included artwork from artists such as Madhu Manipatruni with a colourful piece penned “Arranged Marriage” which the artist says was “Drawn on inspiration from [my] roots in India.”

Other artists chosen by the young curator include Rosa Kelly and Alban Haysom. Describing the chosen works as “beautiful,” Bethany Haysom aims for her audience to “explore various interpretations of the title.”

The exhibition also hosts a walled drawing board where members of the public are given the opportunity to draw a pair of eyes, representing each individual in humanity. Weekend Duty Manager at Babylon Arts Theatre Susan Harrison said “The eyes are a clear way of getting people involved. They really sum up the exhibition. It’s a whole piece of artwork in itself. When asked how the exhibition educates newcomers to the notion of Ubuntu, Susan added “It speaks to people on different levels. It’s a beautiful concept.”

Encompassing the importance of celebrating the people around us, the exhibition brings with it a variety of different genres, which help to piece together the story of Ubuntu. 

The exhibition is held at The Babylon Arts Gallery until 23rd July.

More information can be found on the Babylon Arts official website: https://www.babylonarts.org.uk/gallery/view,i-am-because-we-are_24128.htm 

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