Thousands of people in Woolwich enjoyed an afternoon of free dance performances and movement workshops on Friday, as Greenwich Dance opened their popular summer festival with a free event at General Gordon Square, Woolwich.

Moving Woolwich, a vibrant celebration of dance, included opportunities for audiences and passers-by to join in the fun - including dance workshops for local primary school children led by Greenwich Dance artist Wendy Steatham, and a workshop and live performance by South London Samba.

The afternoon concluded with an audience of thousands enjoying performances by youth dance companies and local community groups, all performing on stage at General Gordon Square.

Caron Loudy, Creative Programme Manager at Greenwich Dance, said: "It was brilliant to see so many people enjoying dance and movement at General Gordon Square on Friday! Moving Woolwich brought the whole community together in dance, and all of the performers thoroughly enjoyed showcasing their work on stage. Greenwich Dance works with local communities right across the Royal Borough all year round, and it was a privilege to present such a variety of work in Woolwich to a really appreciative audience."

Amongst the audience on Friday were Cllr Denise Scott-McDonald, Cabinet Member for Culture, Creative Industries & Community Well-being for Royal Borough of Greenwich.

Moving Woolwich was the opening event of Greenwich Dances - a collection of six inspirational dance events across the Royal Borough of Greenwich, presented by Greenwich Dance. Greenwich Dances is part of the Royal Greenwich Festivals, supported by the Royal Borough of Greenwich.

Photos by Alicia Clarke

Submitted by David Hopkins