Fresh from the Launch

So that's it, Discover Young Hackney '09 has been kicked off in spectacular style by the marvelous Shaw and Edwards, at the Hackney Empire.

The talent poured out of the contestants as they competed in an 'X factor' style talent contest on Friday night, to celebrate the launch of the festival. The night was a sell out and judging by the roars from the crowd everyone had a great night (I know I did!).

Big big big congratulations to the ladies from L'Amour, the all girl winner's who are overflowing with talent. They will be performing live at the Discover Young Hackney close event on 12 March '09 so look out for details of that coming soon. And, just as importantly, a massive thank you to everyone who took to the stage, it's really scary to put yourself out there and I can't thank you enough... without you the show just wouldn't happen.

So, ladies and gentlemen a big hand to Renell Shaw, Mekel Edwards, everyone at Hackney Empire, Kat B, Donna (the seriously seriously good BSL Interpreter!), Rising Tide, Shape, Eastside Educational Trust and all the young reporters from Contrast, Headliners, Social Spider.....

We are very grateful. And this is just the start. Check out all the FREE arts events coming your way over the next 2 months. Scroll down the list to the right for events listed by art form or visit http://www.hackney.gov.uk/dyh to download the full programme.