A Place of Wonder Featuring Songs of the Forest

A Place of Wonder is an immersive musical journey that bridges the ancient magic of Epping Forest with the vibrant creative heartbeat of modern Waltham Forest Featuring Choir of Joy, Funk in the Forest and Waltham Forest Primary Schools. Created and directed by Maya Sapone, the production is designed as a theatrical tapestry, weaving original compositions and virtuosic masterpieces by Romantic and Modernist composers with folk songs and improvised music. Featuring the evocative ‘Songs of the Forest’ by Kate Stilitz, this continuous musical landscape supports a narrative of local history, nature, and magic.

The story follows a group of Victorian school friends led by a young William Morris, as they travel through the borough’s most iconic landmarks. Guided by the legendary figure of Mother Shipton, who possesses the mystical power to see into both the past and the future, the children explore the wonders of the landscape as it transforms through time. Each exploration builds toward a choral moment where hundreds of young voices unite to celebrate the spirit of the community, honouring the wonders found in both the natural world and human creativity.