Wings of the Sky: A Sanctuary Seeking Initiative by The Plum Project
The Plum Project, an initiative of the Uniting Church in Garden Lane, played a vital role in Wings of the Sky, a creative arts production rooted in the Sanctuary Seeking movement. The project was designed to involve local people seeking sanctuary through participatory arts and culminated in a moving performance at Chester Cathedral as a prelude to Refugee Week. Funding for Plum’s contribution to Wings of the Sky came from a combination of sources: Cheshire West and Chester Council (CWACC), the Mersey Synod Mission Grant, and individual donations (please see list at the end of this article).
The Mersey Synod Mission Grant enabled the formation of four ‘Maker’ teams who created the props, costumes, and accessories for the performance. A key objective was that at least one-third of the Makers would be individuals with lived experience of seeking sanctuary. About 200 people were involved throughout, a third of which had lived experience of seeking sanctuary. There were representatives of 12 different countries. This commitment to inclusivity extended to every element of the production.
Revd Christine M Jones said: “ When a church embraces its context, there are opportunities to draw on the local gifts to provide a welcome. Our neighbourhood includes the University and a school both supporting learners from many different countries and cultures, so engaging with the creative arts creates ways to share gifts and form inclusive relationships. Participating together puts us on an equal footing where we learn together from each other. Plum’s main role was ‘maker of many friends’.”
Trustee and Secretary, Alan Johnson said: "The performance on Thursday, 12 June was a great success. The Uniting Church served as one of the key venues for rehearsals and creative preparations, including the design and construction of costumes. Several individuals have been involved throughout the weeks leading up to the performance — notably from our congregation at Uniting Church in Garden Lane: the Revs. Ceri Gardner and Christine Jones, and Sue Rawski. Others with close ties to our church and The Plum Project have also played vital roles, including Matt Baker (Composer), Lucy Thatcher (Director and North West End Acting School), artists Maria Lancashire and Clare Owens, and children from Chester Blue Coat CE Primary School."
The story behind this remarkable initiative is beautifully captured in a series of short videos, available here:
The story behind Wings of the Sky:
https://player.vimeo.com/video/1086475369
The Film Crew:
https://player.vimeo.com/video/1091486038
Donations:
Cheshire West and Chester Council sanctuary Seekers Funding
Chester Cathedral Mission Fund
United Reformed Church Mission Fund
Chester City of Sanctuary
Friends of Theatre in the Quarter
Earl of Chester Fund
CW & C Diversity Fund
Dee Iona Family Group
Writer of Words: Richard Wiseman
Composer: Matt Baker
Directors: Cariad Morgan; Millie Stevenson: Lucy Thatcher
Film-Maker: Sam Riley of ‘Canteen’ working with 6 people with lived experience.
Where do I find out more information about grants and funding?
On the Grants and Funding page — URC Mersey
You can also contact Revd Stuart Radcliffe, Rita Griffiths, Steven Mitchell or the URC Mersey Synod Grant/Bid Finder/Writer, Helen McCormack for advice or assistance in completing the form.