Synopsis

A black-and-white video, filmed by Basement Project, records the fourth night of The Tower Hamlets Arts Project (THAP) dance performances composed of both youth and adult groups – from physical theatre narrative performances, to solo and group contemporary dance performances. The final performance is an ensemble act with the youth dancers using umbrellas as props.

The Tower Hamlets Arts Project (THAP) was formed in 1976 out of protest to the Thames Television ‘Eyesights’ scheme which commissioned professional artists to create posters for display in the borough, rather than investing in local arts projects. A crowded public meeting in February 1975 called for an alternative, bolder plan, bringing together existing and fledgling arts activities under a coordinating body to be called the Tower Hamlets Arts Project (THAP). The purpose was to create opportunities for everyone to participate in community art. THAP celebrated their achievements with a month-long ‘Big Show’ at the Whitechapel Art Gallery.