Dance troupe show off their moves in ‘Winter Surprise’

RESIDENTS of the MacUilliam estate in Tallaght were treated to outdoor performances by dancer Michael Chanda and theatre group Freshly Ground Theatre on Saturday afternoon.

Over 20 young people also took part in a dance workshop in the estate’s basketball court led by Michael Chanda, and children placed illuminated Christmas trees around the estate.

The socially distanced event, called ‘Winter Surprise’, was organised by Creative Places MacUilliam – an 18-month programme funded by the Arts Council which centres on bringing the arts to the estate.

Jennifer Webster from Tallaght Community Arts, which is delivering the programme, told The Echo: “We had great fun on Saturday.

Children with their community Christmas tree in MacUíllíam Estate

“There was a great coming together of the community, where we used the estate differently – having a dance workshop in the basketball court probably hasn’t happened before.

“The atmosphere was very exciting and fun. The feedback was that the community had a great time.”

The event was funded by South Dublin County Council’s Local Live Performance Support Scheme, and is one of many events that Creative Places MacUilliam plans to hold over the next 14 months.

Michael Chanda leading his dance workshop

“There are going to be many events throughout the next year with Creative Places MacUilliam,” explained Jennifer.

“What we’re doing is a research project to see what arts initiatives the community in MacUilliam would like to have, and to give them a taster of different projects.

“It’s community-led and hugely collaborative.”

For further information, visit the Creative Places MacUilliam Facebook page.