Lincoln Arts Centre, in collaboration with Lincoln City of Sanctuary and the East Midlands First Theatre Company of Sanctuary, Maison Foo (makers of theatre, art, and community), extended an invitation on the 6th and 7th of March. Guests were invited to sit down, drink tea, and share stories of food memories through a unique performance experience called A Seat at Our Table. Global hosts shared stories, food, and experiences about home and moving, all as part of the arts centre’s Home Is Where The Art Is season. This season of creative exhibitions and performances celebrated the concept of home. 

A free ‘Meet Your Neighbour’ street installation was also displayed in the Lincoln Arts Centre foyer, offering a pop-up miniature neighbourhood that brought doorstep tales from around the world to just down your road. The installation provided an opportunity for people to glimpse the stories and diverse lives of UK residents from various backgrounds. With increasing migration into the County, the event aimed to serve as a foundation for a constructive exchange of ideas, helping to build a structured and collaborative network of support for those in need. 

Twenty diverse guests, including local councillors, Lincoln’s MP, individuals with lived experience, volunteers, and representatives from local organisations such as ACTS Trust and CARITAS, gathered for a morning of Creative Conversation and Persian Tea. This led to lively discussions on how to move forward with plans to make Lincolnshire a safe and welcoming county. Persian Chai (tea) and music were provided by members of the Iranian and San Salvadoran communities. 

Throughout the event, ideas and thoughts were shared on positive experiences, hopes, and dreams. Participants reflected on how small gestures, such as a smile, can make a significant difference in the life of someone who feels alone or isolated. 

For further information check out: https://lincoln.cityofsanctuary.org