FilmMerton Launches With Celebration Of Culture In Wimbledon

---

New Wimbledon Theatre hosts the start of 2019 film festival

The launch of the biggest film programme in Merton saw New Wimbledon Theatre celebrate the culture of Merton during a special evening.

Hundreds of guests, mainly residents from across the borough packed out the theatre, and were entertained by grassroots and established artists. From string quartets, to rap artists, beatboxers to surprise flash mobs, the people of Merton let down their hair for an evening celebrating what is to come from FilmMerton.

FilmMerton announced 24 series’ of pop-up film nights hosted by community groups and guest curators; funding for 4 brand new short films; a new art installation and the launch of an immersive technology festival in Mitcham in 2020.

“Bringing communities together will make society work better for everybody. Culture is the greatest vehicle for bringing communities together, and film, probably the easiest for people to access”, said John Merriman, chair of MertonCulture, Merton’s newly formed independent cultural advisory group.

“I am so proud that together, with the generosity of the New Wimbledon Theatre, White Light, South London Stationers and Printers, Wimbledon Breweryand others from the business community as well as the kindness of the artists and speakers who have been involved tonight, we have put on a large-scale event at no cost to those attending.”

Justine Simons, Deputy Mayor for Culture and Creative Industries, said: “London is overflowing with talent and imagination – culture is in every corner of the capital, and Merton is no exception. Awarded a Cultural Impact Award, FilmMerton will see pop-up film screenings and live performances across the borough. This brilliant film festival has been curated by community groups and emerging film makers, giving local residents the opportunity to share their creativity and stories".

Merton Council Leader Stephen Alambritis is pictured above at the launch.

The London Borough of Merton was a winner of a Cultural Impact Award from the Mayor of London earlier this year. The delivery team are well into preparations for the festival, but are still keen to hear from residents and potential sponsors. You can find out more and get in touch via the website mertonculture.org, or pop along and meet the team at two drop-in sessions in the coming weeks:

The Sultan pub, Norman Road, South Wimbledon, 7pm December 10.

Casuarina Tree, Mitcham 7pm, December 13.

FilmMerton events begin early 2019.

December 3, 2018