As part of the new strategy, will be recruiting a Community Council who will have a voice in our programming, as well as offering Community Commissions to local individuals, community groups and grassroots organisations, and recruiting Young Creatives and producers.

We will build on our successful ‘Artists of Change’ programme, which gives local people the opportunity to work directly with inspirational artists. We will also soon be relaunching our music programme, platforming artists from the vibrant South London music scenes, including jazz, soul and Afrobeats.

Our aim is to increase clarity and transparency about our processes and how artists and audiences can get involved – whether that be through creating work, finding a pathway into a creative career or just having a space to be heard. More information on how to get involved will be available soon.

Much of this work has been funded by a multi-year grant from Paul Hamlyn Foundation.

“This is an exciting time for the Albany as we look to consolidate years of learning and expertise in co-creation. Like many organisations across the arts and cultural sector, we are facing a challenging time; however, we believe that this is not a time to shy away from adventurous programming and making change. We are grateful for a grant from Paul Hamlyn Foundation for enabling us to take this new step and look forward to working closely with local people over the next few months as we put our plans into action.”
Gavin Barlow, CEO and Director

“Since our establishment in the 1970s, the Albany has been known as a pioneering home for radical community arts. From hosting Rock Against Racism gigs in the 70s and 80s, to producing groundbreaking work highlighting the climate emergency as part of London Borough of Culture; our commitment to involving our local communities in creating work that matters to them spans decades. We look forward to continuing this important work and bringing more local people on the journey with us..”
Vicki Dela Amedume, Creative Director

“The Albany has a strong focus on its civic role and a long history developing local partnerships to support cultural place-making, community and talent development. We’re delighted to support the Albany as they embark on this new chapter – this work and their new Creative Strategy builds on their commitment to community-based practice and shifts real power to communities, artists and especially to young people.”
Shoubhik Bandopadhyay, Head of Programme, Arts, Paul Hamlyn Foundation

Photo from The War Inside by Camille Dawson, taken by Ellie Kurttz.