Cool Fusion

Cool Fusion is one of the largest voluntary arts initiatives in the London 2012 Cultural Olympiad.  Celebrating the Olympics and Paralympics within London’s vibrant culture, it presents four performances of new music and fresh drama in historic venues across London.  Groups from Kids' Company and Pursuing Independent Paths are developing work they will present alongside the Lambeth Wind Orchestra, composers from London, the South-East and East Anglia, Putney Writers' Circle playwrights, actors and rappers, Coronel Percussion, Cool Fusion jazz and electronica.  Together, they create a London soundscape that connects with past, present and future Olympic endeavour.

Come and experience this unique multi-media event at:
All Saints, West Dulwich (21st July) - this Grade I listed building, ravaged by a tragic fire in 2000 but now beautifully and imaginatively restored, is the venue for the twice-yearly musical feasts presented by the Lambeth Wind Orchestra.  Savour the world premiere of this wide-ranging celebration of new and highly approachable creative possibilities.

Cecil Sharp House, Camden (28th July) - voted one of London’s top five music venues by Time Out, this Grade II listed building is the home of English folk music, mixing the scholarly and the bucolic; tying Cool Fusion into the rich narrative of British community music.

St Mary's, Putney (4th August) - the site of the radical Putney Debates during the English Civil War, St Mary’s is accustomed to the epic (the annual grand Gala Ball) and the intimate such as London Composers Forum chamber recitals.  Cool Fusion spans the same colourful spectrum, from music performed by a full wind and brass band to personal stories plucked from the past and retold by actors.

St Michael's, Westminster (1st September) - with a Memorial Chapel designed by Sir Giles Gilbert Scott (architect of Liverpool Cathedral and designer of the iconic red telephone kiosk), St Michael’s matches the Regency splendour of Chester Square, its expansive layout suited to Cool Fusion’s multi-layered blend of music, sound and the telling of epic tales of striving and achievement.

Cool Fusion is proud to acknowledge support by public funding from the National Lottery through Arts Council England, with further support from Wandsworth Borough Council, Westminster City Council, Vital Regeneration and BNP Paribas.

See www.coolfusion.org.uk for the latest news and multimedia tasters.