Grrls Rock Camp Ely

Grrls Rock Camp Ely is developed from Babylon Arts’ Creative Ideas Lab. This opportunity enabled artists and creative practitioners from across East Cambridgeshire to develop their ideas for engaging communities in the district, in arts and culture. 

The use of the word “Grrls” takes influence from “Riot Grrrl”, a punk rock feminist punk movement that began during the early 1990s. It also represents our aim to welcome all grrls to the rock camp, including non-binary and trans young people.

Musician Emma Kupa and Babylon Arts have joined forces to enable young women and non-binary and trans young people to have a go at playing the drums, bass, and guitar and singing, with the teaching and support of a diverse group of women and non-binary and trans facilitators who have played in bands, toured and even been on national radio. 

Over three days in October half-term, at The Maltings, 25th October, and Centre E, 26th and 27th October, in Ely, there will be opportunities to form bands with like-minded young people and rehearse together with all the equipment needed. An introduction to songwriting will also form part of the event with a focus on fun and creativity. 

Emma learned the guitar as a teenager and has played in bands ever since. She is currently a member of Cambridge based indie-pop trio Mammoth Penguins and also releases music under her solo moniker Emma Kupa. With 20 years’ experience writing and recording music, Emma has toured across Europe and the USA, playing intimate gigs and large festivals such as Latitude. Her music is regularly played on BBC radio 6 music. 

Emma Kupa says: “Anyone can learn to play an instrument and rock out! But women, non-binary and trans people, especially LGBTQI+ and those from minoritised ethnic groups, who can face prejudice and abuse, have to overcome more barriers and have fewer opportunities in the music industry.” 

Emma Kupa and Babylon Arts aim to provide a safe, nurturing and joyful environment in which young people can develop musically, personally and socially. No prior experience is needed, and it’s free to attend. To find out more about the event and how to get involved, visit the Babylon ARTS website. 

For young women and non-binary and trans young people aged 12-18, especially welcoming LGBTQI and young people from Black, Asian and minoritized communities. 

Nine creative practitioners were shortlisted to discuss their ideas with the Babylon Arts’ team. Emma Kupa’s idea was selected to receive a commission to test out her idea of a girls/LGBTQI+ band. The Creative Ideas Lab was part of Babylon Arts’ work funded through the Culture Recovery Fund.

Press release from Babylon ARTS

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