It has taken months in the making and pulled in help from artistic volunteers from all walks of life, but the Fun Palace is in town this weekend, writes Olivia Demetriades.

The Whitgift Centre will be the hub of a huge network of activities designed to encourage audience participation and teach people young and old new artistic skills in a pilot project also running in towns across the UK.

Every activity is being put on free of charge, and with the Fun Palace mentality focussed on bringing out the best of the town where it is hosted, Croydon organisers have promised to explore new developments such as the expanding Croydon Tech City, and draw on the town’s rich artistic and scientific history.

Carly Chubb-Whittaker, Croydon Fun Palace Maker, says: “I’m a new resident of Croydon and am very excited to get included in the community. Croydon is a fun place, so it’s perfect for a Fun Palace.

“I’m a keen gardener, and want to see people getting their hands dirty.”

Celebrating legendary theatre director Joan Littlewood’s centenary, the Fun Palace was originally conceived in 1961 with the help of architect, Cedric Price.

On Level 2 of the Whitgift Centre in Trinity Court you’ll find the hub to all the activities and access to a programme of events that includes a pedal-powered disco, Azonto dancing, singing workshops, apple pressing, and unusual musical instruments made from fruit.

Other hands-on activities, such as ice-cream making, 3D printing, urban gardening, crafting, astronomy, dance, movies, theatre, lectures and explorer trails in the old town are just some of the events on offer from Croydon-based artists, scientists and artisans.

Whitgift Centre, Croydon, plus other venues across town; October 4 and 5, 11am to 5pm; free; croydonfunpalace.org