CommuniTree in Nottingham recently welcomed friends, families, and artists for the launch of our latest project, celebrating wellbeing and the power of creative expression. Supported in part by Macmillan Cancer Care, the event brought together powerful performances, heartfelt stories, and opportunities for reflection — all in the spirit of promoting mental and emotional health.

Drumming and Dance: The Rhythm of Resilience

The event began with an energetic and uplifting performance from Happy Lady Drumming Club, whose joyful rhythms set the perfect tone for the day. The sense of togetherness and shared energy reminded us of the healing power of communal music-making and expressive arts.

Following this, the Phoenix Sisters took to the stage, their dance performance radiating strength and grace. Through every movement, they told stories of resilience, growth, and hope — a powerful tribute to the themes of the day.

Words That Heal: Poetry and Spoken Word

Poetry also played a vital role in the celebration. Cara Thompson and Marcia Fearon shared their deeply moving words, each poem a reflection of personal journeys and collective experiences.

We were also privileged to witness a beautiful performance from Shania Del Carmen, whose artistry brought another layer of emotional depth to the day. Her presence and powerful delivery served as a reminder of how the arts can give voice to our emotions and experiences in ways words alone sometimes cannot.

Honoring a Legacy: The Story of Rose Thompson

A particularly poignant moment was the heartfelt talk from Lesley Thompson, who shared memories of their family member, Rose Thompson. After a long and courageous battle with cancer, Rose’s legacy lives on through the support and advocacy of her family.

In her honour, Lesley and Cara have been dedicated to creating and growing BME cancer support groups, ensuring that people from global majority communities have access to culturally sensitive care and guidance. Their work continues to uplift and empower those navigating their own cancer journeys, and their presence at CommuniTree was a reminder of the strength found in storytelling and community. We thank them both for joining us for this event.

Wellbeing in Action: Holistic Therapies and Arts

The celebration also offered a chance for attendees to explore holistic approaches to wellbeing. Sprinkle of Swara hosted engaging stalls and taster sessions, offering insights into arts-based healing and therapeutic practices. From mindful creativity to restorative therapies, the activities encouraged participants to explore ways of supporting their emotional health through self-expression.

A Community United

The launch event was a true reflection of what CommuniTree stands for — a space where creativity flourishes, connections are formed, and the importance of emotional and mental wellbeing is celebrated. It was a day of shared stories, joyful expression, and meaningful conversations.

We’re deeply grateful to Macmillan Cancer Care and When Women Gather for supporting this project and to all the performers, speakers, and facilitators who brought their energy and passion. And of course, a special thank you to everyone who joined us and made the day so memorable.

This is just the beginning — we’re excited to continue providing opportunities for creative connection and wellbeing. Keep an eye out for upcoming workshops, performances, and community events at CommuniTree.