Listen to our podcast episodes:
The Brecknock: Four Cafés and a Butcher
Neighbours and Lodgers: the Good, the Bald and the Other
As former and current residents of the Crescent, we are well aware of its warm and vibrant spirit, as well as its online reputation shaped by a grim history — Dr Crippen’s infamous murder and a 1980s police report on urban poverty still dominate search results.
This project counters that negative reputation by sharing stories collected from residents and users of the Hilldrop Community Centre — stories that reflect the strength, spirit and diversity of the area today, while not shying away from its more controversial aspects. The Walking Art group at Hilldrop Community Centre has contributed to the production, co-creating set elements under the guidance of professionals.
As part of the project, participants took part in a one-week podcast workshop led by Alice Lloyd, resulting in four episodes that will be published here shortly.
Midway through the project, we hosted an exhibition featuring portraits of participants alongside artworks created by the Walking Art group in response to the Crescent, accompanied by QR codes that allowed visitors to listen to short snippets from the interviews.
On 23 May 2026, we hosted an open rehearsal at the Etcetera Theatre, inviting those we interviewed to experience the work in progress. More public performances will be announced in the near future...
This project has been made possible thanks to the Cripplegate Foundation and public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England.
