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The People’s Kitchen

A space of hope and togetherness

The People’s Kitchen is a vibrant community initiative that brings people together through food, shared experiences, and meaningful conversation. At its heart, the project is more than just a pop-up kitchen – it is a space of togetherness, co-creation, and cultural exchange.

By serving locally produced food in an open and welcoming setting, The People’s Kitchen fosters connection across diverse communities, encouraging people to slow down, share a meal, and engage in conversations about the things that nurture us – our relationships, our environment, and our collective future.

Each iteration of The People’s Kitchen is shaped by the community it serves. Through open workshops and collaborative planning, local residents, community groups, and organisations come together to imagine what the space could be, addressing the unique needs of their town or neighbourhood. Past projects have built connections between councillors, food banks, religious organisations, youth services, and local businesses – creating new networks of support and dialogue.

“Everything about it was successful, the host was amazing, food was lovely, since I have lived in Rainham for five years, I'm proud that it's the place where I live.”
Participant
“There’s no other place like it ...”
Participant

The project embraces art, design, and storytelling to cultivate an atmosphere of warmth and inclusivity. By reimagining how public spaces can function beyond traditional cultural institutions like galleries, theatres, and museums, The People’s Kitchen demonstrates the power of creativity to bring people together in everyday environments.

Pop-up events are a key feature of the project, offering unique experiences such as intergenerational dinners, skill-sharing workshops, and special evenings where attendees are invited to pause, reflect, and celebrate community achievements. These events have empowered young people, fostered cross-generational conversations, and created moments of joy and reflection for all who participate.

Production Credits

Artist David Shearing
Community Producer Christine Santa-Ana
Community Producer Charlotte Trower
Assistant Designer Hannah Davis
Production Manager Matthew Turbuck
Build and Construction Blue Set Scenery
Sound Composer James Bulley
Graphic Design Joe Hale Studio
Havering Changing James Jackson
Project Assistant Alix Kelly