Rap performances, poetry readings and talks mark the life of teenager who died in January following stabbing in Bow

Friends and family celebrated the life of 18-year-old Isschan Nicholls, who died after being stabbed in Bow earlier this year, at a theatre night in Stratford on Saturday (October 16) while also spreading their message against knife crime.

Under the banner of F.A.C.T (Families Against Crime Together), local performers including Isschan’s cousin Nina Alexis, singer Leona Melius and rappers Hood Soldierz took to the stage for the sell-out night at the Theatre Royal Stratford East in Gerry Raffles Square.

The evening was organised by Isschan’s parents, Jennifer Williams and Brian Nicholls, whose son, himself a talented rapper and music fan, died two days after he was stabbed at the junction of Lefevre Walk and Parnell Road on January 13.

The Poplar teenager would have celebrated his 19th birthday on October 13.

Jennifer, 42, said: “It was fantastic, a great success.

“I’d say our message got across as well. It was a powerful event, there was laughter and tears but importantly there was enjoyment.”

There was also a spectacular dance performance from group Abyss and the event was hosted by MTV Base presenter Kat.

Jennifer said: “He was the glue which held the whole event together.

“We will definitely consider doing it again. The F.A.C.T group are thinking about making it an annual event.”