A series of strategic events to support and build the creative community in Greater Craigmillar

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Working in partnership with local arts organisations Drake Music Scotland, Craigmillar Now, Curious Seed and Scottish Chamber Orchestra in Craigmillar

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These gatherings aim to promote the existing artistic community, build and upkeep new connections of local artists and facilitators, those working and/or interested in working with children and young people in the area. They are a chance to meet, hang out and get to know other organisations from Greater Craigmillar better, in a social capacity. The Community Gatherings help us to strengthen our relationships, to support one another and also have fun!

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Facilitated by Lyra's Engagement Facilitator Caitlin Mulgrew and produced by Lyra's Executive Producer James Preston, the first event took place on 3 May 2023 at Lyra. Live music and a wild ceilidh were accompanied by an open mic and a sustainable dinner created by Bridgend Farmhouse. Craigmillar Now facilitated the live creation of a community map of 'makars and doers'.

 

The first gathering was made up of: 

• artists - 34%, community organisations - 24%, facilitators 21%, others - 21%

• 95% of attendees found the Community Gathering useful for making new connections with the Greater Craigmillar community

• 57% thought it was somewhat likely that new works/projects or partnerships will emerge as a result of connections they made at the gathering

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Thanks to City of Edinburgh Council Creative Community Hubs funding for supporting the Community Gatherings.

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Great event! It really lifted my energy and it was awesome to see everyone come together and meet some folk who are working in the area. Thank you! 

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The evening was wonderful - perfect. Thanks so much for inviting me. Great to meet new folk with similar aims. It was heartening to see the community come together for such a night. 

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I enjoyed this event, and thank you so much for the organisation and invitation. I met new people and people I had only met on Zoom! It was beneficial to have a space to talk, eat, and just have a right good time connecting 😊 

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I really enjoyed the event, it was one of the most accessible and diverse ceilidhs I've ever attended! Please make it an annual thing. 

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Thank you! It was a lovely event and I came out feeling much more connected to other artists and groups within the community.