Rhythmic roots

Young people from the London borough of Hackney last week celebrated the launch of a CD of their performance poetry. The project, entitled New Roots: Young Hackney Voices, was coordinated by the Free Form Arts Trust and involved young residents researching their roots before creating raps, poems and lyrics (above). Performance poets Gemma Weekes, Dorothea Smart, Nolan Weekes and El Crisis worked with the youngsters in a series of workshops designed to develop their lyrical talent. An accompanying photographic exhibition of photography by the young people is taking place at Hothouse in east London and runs until 16 November. For details, (tel) 020 7241 7479.