“If we are to be as proud of our generation as we were of our grandparents in WW2 we need to make a stand. This crisis will be what defines our generation, let’s not screw it up.”
Stars, singing, Christmas cheer and helping refugees. Who wouldn’t want to be part of that this festive season?
The charity Side by Side with Refugees has announced that Simon Callow, Mari Wilson, Chizzy Akudolu and Tanita Tikaram will be among the stars helping raise money for humanitarian aid for refugees on December 2nd at St Mary’s Music Hall, Walthamstow.
Founder and chairperson, Katrina Kieffer-Wells said: “The Calais Jungle was cleared just over a year ago, but without its relative security hundreds of refugees lack the basic essentials for life. One recent report revealed that police have been using tear gas to separate refugees from their possessions and then destroying the little they have.
“Our Christmas Showcase at St Mary’s Music Hall will be a great opportunity to enjoy an evening of first class entertainment while helping those in need.
She continued: “If we are to be as proud of our generation as we were of our grandparents in WW2 we need to make a stand. This crisis will be what defines our generation, let’s not screw it up.”
Among those performing will be the award-winning jazz singer, Ian Shaw, one of the founders and trustees of Side by Side with Refugees. His new album Shine Sister Shine is a tribute to the amazing women he came across while working with refugees.
Ian said: “As a regular volunteer I’m noticing, how, in the absence of any of the larger charity titans, it’s the smaller registered charities (Donate4Refugees, Mobile Refugee Service, Care4Calais, to name a few) that make pragmatic and rapid decisions on aid delivery.
“Calais has become a chaotic and unforgiving place since the Jungle’s demolition. The refugees know little or no sanctuary other than sporadic meals from the brilliant Refugee Community Kitchen volunteers.
“SBS work closely with individual volunteers who work through the night around the dangerous La Chapelle area, covering regular fuel and insurance for their vehicles – ensuring they can continue their focused work.”
The Christmas showcase is on 2 December at St Mary’s Music Hall! Buy your ticket here.
Doors open from 18:30 for refreshments and mingling before the show starts at 19:30.Tickets include a glass of bubbly and light bites.
