Cornish Teen Visits Eden Project Through Hall for Cornwall Wish Campaign

Last week, Hall for Cornwall joined forces with the Eden Project to grant a special wish for 16 year old Tom Knight from Bude.

A Wish Fulfilled

Young and Talented Cornwall had wished for Tom, a recent grant recipient and budding engineer, to meet the team at the Eden Project. Tom has a strong interest in geothermal energy and sustainability, so the visit aimed to inspire him as he continues his learning journey.

Tom was welcomed by Dr. Jo Elworthy, Director of Interpretation, Science and Engagement, and Peter Jones, Director of Horticulture. Jo has been part of Eden from the very beginning with more than 40 years of experience in science engagement, while Peter joined the team after 19 years at the Royal Horticultural Society, most recently as Garden Manager for the Hardy Ornamental department at RHS Garden Wisley.

Over lunch they discussed renewable energy, Eden’s position as a pioneer in its field, and Tom’s ambition to work for a geological engineering company that prioritises sustainability.

A Tour Packed with Discovery

Tom joined Jo and Peter for a private tour of the biomes, exploring the world of plants and visiting the Lookout for its aerial views of the rainforest. He then headed to the Core building, home to Eden’s Invisible Worlds exhibition, before rounding off the day with a Cacao experience.

Tom said:
“I had an amazing day, and it was great to meet so many inspiring people. I now appreciate more how plants work and understand how complex these processes are. I was particularly interested in the bacteria that could break down waste and generate electricity in the process. It was so interesting to hear how the staff are working together to provide a sustainable future for Eden and beyond.”

Peter said:
“It was such an honour to meet Tom and give him a guided tour of the Eden Project, and a deeper insight into how we combine science, innovation and storytelling. As an educational charity, nurturing curiosity and passion for sustainability like Tom’s is a fundamental part of our mission. We hope he found the day as inspiring as we did getting to meet him and wish him the best of luck in pursuing his interests.”

Aladdin’s Magic Behind the Wish

Hall for Cornwall’s pantomime, Aladdin, is themed around the power of wishes, so the theatre launched a campaign inviting people to make a wish and see what might happen. Tom’s day was one of the wishes granted.

Aladdin Executive Producer and HfC CEO Julien Boast said:
“Our Aladdin is full of magic, wonder, and wishes. We’ve even got the brilliant Dawn French voicing the most famous wish-granter of them all, the Genie. We’re thrilled we could make a wish come true for Tom with the team at the Eden Project and look forward to bringing the magic to audiences as the show opens this week.”

Want to Make Your Own Wish?

Aladdin, a Cornwall Playhouse Production in association with Falmouth University and flying high with Cornwall Airport Newquay, runs at the Cornwall Playhouse, Hall for Cornwall, from Fri 05 Dec to Sat 03 Jan.

Tickets are available at hallforcornwall.co.uk or by calling the Box Office on 01872 262466.