Science and Industry Museum gears up to explore ideas for a better world as Manchester Science Festival line up is announced

Royal Photographic Society’s Science Photographer of the Year. Brian Eno and ClientEarth. Manchester Science Festival Young People Panel. Royal Society. Zamzam Ibrahim. James Lovelock. Helen Czerski. Samira Ahmed. BBC Planet North and more.

The Science and Industry Museum is preparing for 10 days of online scientific celebration as Manchester Science Festival goes digital between 12 -21 February 2021. Further socially distanced, onsite activities, including UK premieres and a dedicated special event programme for families will also take place later in the year, supporting Manchester’s cultural, economic and skills recovery. 

Manchester Science Festival has been a key event in the city’s cultural calendar since 2007. This year’s event is a cornerstone of the Science Museum Group’s major public programme focused on climate and solutions to the urgent challenges facing the world ahead of COP26, the 26^th United Nations Convention on Climate Change, happening in Glasgow this November, when world leaders and delegates will convene to develop an international response to the climate emergency. 

As the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution, Manchester was the catalyst for scientific innovation and unprecedented change worldwide. Now, with Greater Manchester’s vision of becoming carbon-neutral by 2038, the city is primed to influence future progress. The festival will support this through a programme that encourages communities, scientists and activists to advance ideas for a better world.

The museum has unveiled a programme of free online talks, exhibitions, debates and activities to enjoy from home this February while it remains temporarily closed.

FREE ONLINE EVENTS THIS FEBRUARY

An extensive programme of digital activities will include a range of engaging and thought-provoking events.  

Track the global story of climate change with the The Royal Photographic Society’s Science Photographer of the Year competition, which will now be showcased digitally from Manchester for the first time in a captivating online exhibition that depicts how science, technology and engineering are addressing this urgent issue. It will exhibit stunning images, selected from over 1,000 entries taken by both expert and amateur photographers, including budding artists aged 17 and under, who submitted their photos as part of a specific competition for young people.

Hear from those at the forefront of the fight against our altering climate in Changing The System as renowned musician and climate campaigner, Brian Eno, joins ClientEarth founder, James Thornton, to discuss how to use the power of law to combat climate change, protect the environment and build a future in which people and the planet thrive together.

Join an expert panel in Earth, but not as we know it: Lovelock’s legacy and our future as they respond to specially-recorded provocations from Dr James Lovelock, the 101-year-old scientist who studied at The University of Manchester and created the influential yet controversial Gaia Hypothesis (the theory that organic and inorganic components of the Earth have evolved together as a single living, self-regulating system). The panel will be made up of a range of expert voices, each bringing a different perspective to the debate. This includes writer and broadcaster Gaia Vince, who has travelled the world extensively to research this unique time in Earth’s history, in which increasing human activities are changing the planet as never before; climate activist and scientist, Professor Chris Rapley, CBE, whose celebrated career has recently seen him focused on the role of climate scientists in delivering value to society through decision making, public policy and more effective communication; and Zamzam Ibrahim, who grew up in Greater Manchester and is now Vice President of European Students Union. Zamzam has led on a number of campaigns tackling social injustices, including climate justice specifically within the education system.

Manchester born physicist, oceanographer and BBC broadcaster, Dr Helen Czerski, will ask the question, ‘How can I be a good citizen of the world?’ during a series of three lively discussions about transport, food and social justice with communities and campaigners who are making a difference. Helen will be joined by a  wide-ranging panel of local guests, including the Mayor of Salford, Paul Dennett, and Director of Open Kitchen MCR, Manchester’s leading sustainable catering company, Corin Bell.

Manchester Science Festival’s Young People Panel are a team of budding Greater Manchester researchers and curators aged 14 - 24 who have been working across the festival to ensure the voices and interests of young people are represented. Join them at a special one-off online event, Let’s talk about eco-anxiety. Chaired by Nile Henry, founder and CEO of The Blair Project, the event will bring together the audience, a panel of young people and a number of climate enthusiasts, including Newsround presenter Martin Dougan, environmentalist Mya-Rose Craig and University of Bath Lecturer Caroline Hickman, for an insightful discussion about this contemporary challenge.

Home audiences can also tune into a livestream of the Royal Society’s You and the planet: air. Its expert panel will be tackling the important issue of air quality and how we can improve this and, subsequently, life on earth. Air pollution also has a major detrimental effect on our environment and without urgent action, global temperatures will continue to increase, as will extreme weather and damage to biodiversity. But what can be done to tackle the problem and how can clean, fresh steps forward be taken? The panel of expert academics and researchers will be attempting to clear the air by exploring solutions to this urgent issue, chaired by the Guardian’s North of England editor, Helen Pidd.

During The Electricity Revolution - Our Zero Carbon Future, a panel will examine the big changes happening around how electricity is generated and delivered. From low carbon electricity to heat our homes or charge our cars, to generating our own power through solar panels, an electricity revolution is in progress. Hear from the company that owns, operates and manages the electricity network that connects every home and business in the North West from Cheshire to Cumbria, and which is at the forefront of this revolution locally, Electricity North West. During this online event, audiences can discover more about its innovative work, discuss the future of energy and find out just how fundamental electricity is to how we live. 

How can we stop fossil fuels from harming our planet? That’s the question Professor Myles Allen will be answering during The Road to Carbon Zero online talk, alongside one of the museum's own expert Explainers. Find out more about what climate change means, hear about Professor Allen’s ideas for a Carbon Takeback Obligation and learn how his research could be used to help the UK achieve its net zero target by 2050. Viewers will also have the chance to ask their own question during a live Q&A session.

Our Hydrogen Future will help audiences to understand more about the universe’s most abundant element and how it holds the key to decarbonising our gas supply and achieving our carbon reduction targets. The event will be hosted by Cadent Gas, which bring gas to 11 million homes and businesses throughout the North West, West Midlands, East Midlands, South Yorkshire, East of England and North London. It is at forefront of developing the science and infrastructure that will enable low carbon hydrogen to heat our homes and power our transport.

There will also the opportunity to join Fazlun Khalid, author and founder of the Islamic Foundation for Ecology and Environmental Sciences, in A Liveable Earth: Climate change and faith community, to discuss the consequences of our lifestyles, how we can leave a liveable Earth for future generations, and whether faith communities play the role of bystander or agent of change.

The Science and Industry Museum has also joined forces with local BBC radio stations from across the North of England to launch Planet North, an initiative that has been shining a spotlight on environmental issues. Look out for content from Planet North Champions, a team of young people from across the North of England who are passionate about the environment and challenges facing our planet, exploring how the actions of young people, and us all, can help towards a better future.

Events are now available to book with more activities including activities families can do at home being added in the coming weeks. All events are free, with donations welcome to support the museum’s work. To view the full line up and to book, visit www.scienceandindustrymuseum.org.uk/manchester-science-festival

In episode two, which airs this Thursday (14) at 8pm, the team will feature Dippy’s visit last year to Number One Riverside as part of a national tour.

The team filmed the 21 metre long dinosaur cast, alongside local visitors, and had a chat with Councillor Janet Emsley, Rochdale’s cabinet member for a safer and inclusive community, and Lorraine Cornish, head of conservation at the Natural History Museum, as part of their episode about dinosaurs and other prehistoric treasures.

Dippy opened in Number One Riverside in February last year, alongside the accompanying exhibition at Touchstones Rochdale. The experience was closed in March to protect the public amid the coronavirus pandemic, but reopened for a short time later in the year with safety measures in place.

Dippy on Tour is being brought to Number One Riverside, Rochdale and visitors across the UK by the Natural History Museum in partnership with the Garfield Weston Foundation, and supported by Dell EMC and Williams & Hill.

It’s the second time Dippy’s stay in Rochdale has featured on national television, following his appearance on the famous children’s programme, Blue Peter, late last year, where viewers tuned in to see young dinosaur fan, Warwick Carter, join presenter Ritchie Driss to place Dippy’s head on at the end of the build.

Councillor Janet Emsley, cabinet member for a safer and more inclusive community at Rochdale Borough Council, said: “I’m not surprised that Dippy’s legacy is continuing, even now that he’s left our borough and I’m looking forward to catching up with my favourite dinosaur once more, albeit through my television. Last year was a very difficult year, but Dippy was unquestionably a rare highlight, and it will be wonderful to be reminded of this wonderful exhibit and what a special time it was for our borough.”

Although Dippy was not able to open for the whole run during his time in Rochdale, the famous cast proved a smash hit in the North West, the seventh of his eight stop UK tour. Over 122,000 people visited Number One Riverside and more than 46,000 went to see the exhibition at Touchstones. 8,000 schoolchildren visited with their classes and hundreds engaged with special zoom sessions organised by the council’s children’s services team to enable children to engage with Dippy during lockdown.

Join them as they delve into stories of football shirt design, technology and sponsorship, chat with key figures and experts within the industry and pore over the best (and worst) kits of all time.

Strip! The National Football Museum Podcast can be downloaded below:

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2020 has been a year unlike any other – but amid the challenges there have been triumphs, celebrations and plenty of talking points. In this special film to mark the end of the year, join Young Identity as they discuss the year that saw an unprecedented use of the word “unprecedented”, give their unique take on some of HOME’s 2020 highlights, and present new work live from HOME.

Featuring:

The Manchester Open Exhibition

Insane Animals

Homemakers

Future 20: Last Place On Earth

Young Identity: Working From HOME

HOME BFI Film Academy: Living at a Distance

HOME Sound Sessions featuring Dorcas Sebuyange, Berry Blacc, To!u x Aden

Joy Yamusangie, Nick Burton and MSR FCJ

This film is available to watch on a pay-what-you-decide basis, with free, £2.50, £5 and £10 options available.

A link to watch the film will be sent after you have booked.

Date & Time details

This film is available online, on-demand.

BOOK NOW

For this year only, the 42-year-old tradition is moving online to hold onto its title as the UK's biggest fancy dress party in the UK, after fears it would not be held at all due to COVID-19 restrictions.

Residents of Wigan Borough and beyond will be encouraged to dress up and tune in to the event from their living room as acclaimed Wigan DJ’s perform.

The #WiganBoxingDayFancyDress event is part of a programme of feel-good shows for residents to enjoy through multi award winning digital broadcasting platform, United We Stream GM, during the Christmas break.

Greater Manchester has been under strict Covid-19 restrictions for nine months, so to mitigate feelings of disconnect, boredom and social isolation, United We Stream GM will showcase world class, distinctively northern music and entertainment digitally so people can connect online.

Four specially curated productions will take place on December 18, 19, Boxing Day and New Year’s Eve, which will be an incredible 24-hour house party.

December 18 kicks off with a world exclusive at 8pm – the first showing of Manchester music documentary-film: Manchester Music Then and Now: Music Worth Fighting For.

Produced and directed by Marketing Manchester, the short film celebrates the incredible people and places who make up Greater Manchester’s contemporary music scene.

Thirty years on from Madchester, Music Worth Fighting For features interviews and insights from individuals emphasising how Manchester music is stronger than ever, with more diversity, better venues, and a new generation of talent continuing the story.

It features a stellar cast of famous faces and places from the Manchester music scene, including A Certain Ratio, Blossoms, Courteeners, Denise Johnson, New Order/Joy Division, Happy Mondays, Lottery Winners, Manchester Collective, Working Men’s Club and Elbow, alongside emerging talent including Valve and DJ Olli Ryder, son of Shaun Ryder, and Oliver Wilson, son of late Factory records supremo Tony Wilson.

It also hears from industry professionals including technicians, band bookers and photographers, plus the promoters and managers of the many grass roots venues and festivals that attract thousands of visitors to Greater Manchester each year.

The film details the extraordinary resilience of the response to the pandemic in Manchester, with bands providing online performances and United We Stream GM attracting millions of viewers worldwide for events featuring Manchester artists.

On Saturday December 19^th regardless of tiers, United We Stream is hosting a party style, uplifting ‘Best of UWS’ for people to relive their best party moments of their first acclaimed season.

From 4pm till midnight, United We Stream GM will provide the soundtrack to an ideal Saturday night stay at home party, bringing together some of the finest moments from their archive of more than 300 talented DJ’s, performers and artists.

Then on Boxing Day, it’s the Wigan takeover!

After 42 years of legendary Boxing Day fancy dress in Wigan, 2020 brings the party home with a world premiere at 6pm of a new film, ‘42’, featuring six incredible DJ’s over six hours.

The spectacular film, inspired by the magnificent costumes and memories of boxing day fancy dress is produced and directed by AL and AL, artist film-makers and creative directors of The Fire Within, in collaboration with dance choreographer Amy Burdon of WigLe Dance and artist Anna FC Smith.

Wigan is renowned for its music scene and #WiganBoxingDayFancyDress will be like no other, with legendary MC Finchy and DJ Kenty, acclaimed DJ Caino, Kyle H, DJ Harvey, Danny Mac and Jake Slater all confirmed to perform.

Creative directors of The Fire Within AL and AL said: “Wigan Boxing Day Fancy Dress is created by the people for the people, it’s one of the most exciting nights and important cultural traditions in the annual calendar of our Borough. We are buzzing that this year we can keep that tradition going by inviting everyone to share their fancy dress bubble house-parties and stream the fun online together.”

The leader of Wigan Council, Coun David Molyneux said: “We have all had to make changes to our lives this year and Boxing Day will be no different. 

“As this challenging year draws to a close, it’s important to think differently so this uplifting tradition continues to thrive. 

“We’re delighted to be working with United We Stream, who will help us to harness the annual enthusiasm, creativity and excitement that people across the country bring to Wigan on Boxing Day.”  

Rounding off this special festive season of shows is the phenomenal Hacienda House Party 24-hour stream, will feature some of the biggest and best-known DJ’s in the world including; Moby, Todd Terry, David Morales, DJ Paulette and Norman Jay MBE and will be the showstopping finale event for United We Stream GM.

The non-stop marathon broadcast will begin at 10am on New Year’s Eve and also feature a bespoke one-off live performance by Haçienda Classical with Manchester Camerata and the AMC Choir.

Hacienda Classical will be produced exclusively by DJ Graeme Park and musical director Tim Crooks alongside the Camerata orchestra, musicians, and top vocalists including Yvonne Shelton, Melanie Williams, Rae Hall and surprise special guests.

Greater Manchester Night-time Economy Adviser and United We Stream executive producer, Sacha Lord said:

“Greater Manchester is known to party. One of the highlights of the calendar, is Boxing Day, and there’s no bigger party, than the Wigan Boxing Day Party

“Traditionally this is a time when 10,000’s people come out to the streets of Wigan, in fancy dress, tummies full of turkey and their dancing shoes on. The turkeys still happening, but sadly, we won’t be able to take to the streets. That won’t stop the party though and United We Stream GM are bringing the streets to you. Join in, dress up, nothing will stop us!

“We hope that these four very different shows will allow you a bit of escapism for a few hours. As always, United We Stream GM will be completely free to watch, and I know for many that money is very tight, but if you can spare a pound or two, that would be great, and your donation will go straight to our chosen, local good causes.”

Beginning at the start of the day on the Pacific Date Line in Fiji at 10AM GMT, the marathon event features a stunning line-up of live guests and DJs, for households to celebrate the end of 2020, and welcome in the new year.

The entire 24-hour live stream will be broadcast as a digital reconstruction of FAC51 with the DJs performing to a virtual crowd in the original recreated venue.

The two previous FAC51 The Haçienda and United We Stream GM online parties amassed a global audience of millions and provided enjoyment in what has proved a difficult and challenging year. This New Year’s party offers some of the finest international DJs, a gallery of Haçienda regulars and some very special one-off live performances, all broadcast via United We Stream GM to raise funds for good causes.

Returning for a bespoke one-off live performance is Haçienda Classical with Manchester Camerata and AMC Choir, produced exclusively for New Year’s Eve by DJ Graeme Park and musical director Tim Crooks alongside the Camerata orchestra, musicians and vocalists including Yvonne Shelton, Melanie Williams, Rae Hall and some surprise special guests.

A very special tribute to Frankie Knuckles is planned: The Frankie Knuckles Foundation will replay Frankie’s 2013/2014 NYE Albert Hall Manchester set, performed within the virtual Haçienda.

The DJ roster for New Year’s Eve for the event is one of The Hacienda's strongest ever. From the New York scene: Danny Tenaglia, David Morales, Todd Terry and Tony Humphries. From Detroit, Carl Craig, and live from Los Angeles, Moby, with all playing one off, exclusive sets.

Meanwhile, over in UK, dance music band Inner City, Phuture,  DJ Norman Jay MBE and a whole host of Haçienda regulars spanning the entire history of the club return to FAC51 including Graeme Park, Greg Wilson, Jon Dasilva, DJ Paulette, Justin Robertson, Sub Sub, K-Klass, DJ Woody, Peter Hook and the club’s first ever resident Hewan Clarke.

All of the performers involved are giving their time and talents gratis to the event, to boost morale for mancunians and beyond, during the ongoing Coronavirus restrictions.

Haçienda Classical has seen FAC51 team up with its hometown orchestra Manchester Camerata since its debut in 2016 and highlights include some ten sold out concerts at Castlefield Bowl and The Royal Albert Hall with headline appearances at Kendal Calling, Isle of Wight Festival (twice) and Glastonbury Festival’s Pyramid Stage.

Manchester Camerata is “Britain’s most adventurous orchestra”, according to The Times, and their long-standing work in the community with schools, care homes and people living with dementia shows their great compassion for and commitment to the city-region. 

The Haçienda Twenty-Four Hour House Party NYE is being produced, and broadcast exclusively by United We Stream Greater Manchester from 10am on December 31, till 10am on January 1, 2021.

United We Stream GM is free to watch, but viewers can donate via the website, with all income of the stream split 50% for the oneGM campaign, and 50% to charities chosen by The Haçienda: Save The Children, The Frankie Knuckles Foundation and PeaceMeal in Ancoats.

The oneGM campaign was launched by the Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham to raise funds to get local support to the people hardest hit by the economic impact of COVID-19 in Greater Manchester.

From food poverty, to supporting those experiencing or at risk of homelessness, to providing mental health support; oneGM will deliver funding to organisations working hard to minimise the impact of this global crisis right within all local neighbourhoods.

During the first UK lockdown from the Coronavirus crisis, United We Stream GM was watched by over seven million people and the acclaimed project ran for 12 weeks, amassing donations of nearly half a million pounds for 12 different good causes and local charities, with some 40 fundraising events broadcast live on the platform.

Warehouse Project founder and executive producer of United We Stream GM, Sacha Lord explains:

“A few weeks ago, I promised that Greater Manchester would hold the biggest New Year’s Eve event, not just in the UK, but probably across Europe. During the initial 10 week United We Stream run, the most viewed events were the two Haçienda productions. We always strive to better ourselves, so we are back, with not only a bigger line up, spanning artists across the globe, but also running for 24 hours. We are the 24-Hour Party People. Nothing will stop us from doing what we do best, and at the same time, raising many funds for those in need. The last time I did 24 hours solidly, was quite a few years ago…but I’m prepared to give it another bash!”

Peter Hook said; “‘The Haçienda was all about the people from day one. This has been a terrible year and my two highlights were our gigs on United We Stream Greater Manchester. For the simple reason that it helped bring people together, entertained so many when we needed it most for some great causes.”

“We’ve been watching the awful turn of events over the past year and realised it was time to round this year off in positive way and bring everyone together again for a great big party. This is only way we know how and let’s rave safe in 2021. From Manchester with love’.

From the Frankie Knuckles Foundation, Frederick Dunson said “The Frankie Knuckles Foundation is extremely excited and proud to be participating in The Haçienda’s 24 Hour New Year’s Eve event with their special tribute honouring our beloved Frankie.  He enjoyed his appearances at The Haçienda and for his legion of friends it will be reminiscent to hear him, and celebrate New Year’s Eve.”

“We are thankful to the great group of his DJ friends that are appearing in this historic event!”

People around the world will be able to watch #HaçiendaNYE exclusively via www.unitedwestream.co.uk, and the United We Stream GM official  Facebook, Twitter, Twitch and You Tube accounts.

#UnitedWeStreamGM #HaciendaNYE #oneGM

The day-long special will broadcast live with sets pre-recorded at sites in Ramsbottom, including the festival’s picturesque base at Ramsbottom Cricket Ground, and from organisers The Met in Bury. After a year of challenges and setbacks for everyone who lives, loves and breathes festivals, this will be one last reminder of the power of live music and a spotlight on this brilliant sector as we head into December.

Sacha Lord, Night Time Economy Adviser for Greater Manchester said “I'm really pleased that we will be showcasing the best of Head For The Hills on United We Stream Greater Manchester - This is a great boutique festival, one of the best in the North, rich in local talent and creativity, and it’s right here on our doorstep in Ramsbottom.

“The Met in Bury has been United We Stream’s home since we began the project at the start of April, so creating a virtual Head For The Hills in conjunction with the team there is a perfect way to celebrate the collaborations and creativity that have endured during this year.

“The restrictions for mass gatherings won’t continue forever and I’m very confident that festivals will be taking place in 2021, but for now this is the next best way to enjoy a day’ of fantastic regional music and culture.

There will be live festival sets from Greater Manchester artists including I Am Kloot’s John Bramwell and Jesca Hoop alongside Liverpool art-pop trio Stealing Sheep. International acts who have previously found plenty of new fans in the Ramsbottom hills will also be beaming in special performances, with The Once coming from Canada, Giant Rooks from Germany, and Elephant Sessions from Scotland. More performers will be announced over the next week, as well as details of DJ sets that will keep you dancing until long after the headliners have usually finished.

Artistic Director of Head For The Hills and The Met David Agnew said “We feel hugely excited to be able to bring together some of our audience's most loved acts and discoveries since we started the festival in 2011

This chance to share a taste of Head For The Hills via the brilliant platform of United We Stream will give thousands of people a flavour of what we hope will return to festival sites across the country next summer.”

Councillor Jane Black, Cabinet Member for the Cultural Economy, Bury Council said "Head For The Hills and culture in general has a huge impact on life, business and enjoyment across our borough, - and music has become even more important to many residents in recent months.

We're delighted that, thanks to a partnership with United We Stream, we're able to share a taster of one of the most important events in our cultural calendar. We're looking forward to welcoming music lovers from across the country virtually to Ramsbottom and Bury as we reach the end of 2020."

Poet Tony Walsh has become a regular act and great supporter of the festival, and will be hosting and performing at this online version. There’ll also be spoken word from Dublin’s Stephen James Smith, performing live from Ireland.

Head For The Hills will bring a little festival flavour to the town of Ramsbottom in December with light installations and projections on local landmarks from Walk The Plank and Illimunos.

Follow United We Stream (@StreamGM) and Head For The Hills (@head4hillsfest) online to see more over the coming days. The festival will be available to watch online for free at unitedwestream.co.uk and headforthehills.org.uk, as well as via facebook.com/head4hillsfest.

Until they can open the doors again Castlefield Gallery will be inviting audiences to visit Obstructions from the comfort of their homes, and engage with the project online. On 6 December obstructions-castlefieldgallery.co.uk will go live with digital content from the exhibition. Online visitors will be able to watch video works, view installation images and read responses from the artists about their work in the exhibition. A 360 ° virtual tour of the exhibition will also enable visitors to travel digitally through the gallery space. A series of special online events programmed to coincide with the exhibition will take place through January and February and will be announced soon.

Image Credit: Sabrina Fuller, Away (2020). Video still

Earlier this year, Castlefield Gallery invited 15 artists from the North West of England to re-make an existing piece of their work with one condition: they had to accept a bespoke ‘Obstruction’ given to them by another artist in the exhibition. Inspired by a long history of artists using self-imposed restrictions to aid creative or free thinking, it also riffs off the restrictions and disruptions caused by COVID-19.

Selected from Salford Scholars who are supported by University of Salford Art Collection, Castlefield Gallery Mentees from Manchester School of Art, and the gallery’s bOlder programme, all the artists are either under 30 or over 50 years of age, creating the opportunity to foster a conversation between two distinct generations. At a time when perceptions of different generations may be fraught with misconceptions, this process has enabled them to learn from each other.

Artists: Heather Bell, Maya Chowdhry, Tara Collette, Alena Ruth Donely, Jack Doyle, Jane Fairhurst, Sarah Feinmann, Tina Finch, Sabrina Fuller, Parham Ghalamdar, Claire Hignett, Paddy O'Donnell, Chris Rainham, Katie Tomlinson, Ian Vines.

Each Obstruction varies: most are short, a few are long and detailed with sub points and several stages. Some are specific and practical while others are more conceptual and abstract, such as ‘…you must tell us a story which must include a Goddess and full-on, uninhibited anger’.

With a desire to be supportive but also to challenge each other, each Obstruction has been received with mixed reactions. Some chose to push back against them, playfully interpreting them or taking them overly literally. What may appear to be a subtle request, may in fact be a great challenge for an artist as they are pushed out of their comfort zone, either with the materials they have to use or the way they have to think.

Artists who would normally rely on the support of the wall are having to make works that will ‘stand up on their own’. Those who usually make good use of colour are now seeing only in monochrome or have been simply forced to paint without their brushes. Others have had to work with washed up plastics or only the things they have acquired in the last six months. Often the obstructions have sent the artists in oblique directions finding themselves meeting up with their childhood imaginary friend in meta-narrative film works or constructing a war time bunker for one. The potential for failure is part of the excitement of the project. The artists know well that the benefit from risks taken now may have a long-lasting effect on their future work.

Castlefield Gallery continued to nurture contemporary visual artists during the lockdown period, taking its exhibitions online, generating paid work for artists in a time of great uncertainty, contributing to non-digital activity to reach out to vulnerable communities in the region as well as developing plans for connecting artists within the North West region and Greater Manchester with international artists . As the artists in this exhibition are North West-based with the majority in Greater Manchester, the gallery focused its support with an opportunity to show their work and to connect with their peers and other artists locally that they might not otherwise encounter.

]]> stuart.aiken@marketingmanchester.com (Visit Manchester) http://www.visitmanchester.com/ideas-and-inspiration/blog/read/2020/11/obstructions-at-castlefield-gallery-b1461#comments1461 Mon, 30 Nov 2020 00:00:00 GMT http://www.visitmanchester.com/ideas-and-inspiration/blog/read/2020/11/christmas-2020-young-singers-and-local-artists-bounce-back-from-lockdown-with-christmas-festival-b1450 Young singers from Chetham’s School of Music will star in a Christmas Festival at The Stoller Hall in Manchester, this December. Young singers from Chetham’s School of Music will star in a Christmas Festival at The Stoller Hall in Manchester, this December.

The online live stream concert – featuring traditional carols alongside festive classical repertoire – is a replacement for Chetham’s annual sell out ‘Christmas Music’ concert, usually held at Manchester Cathedral.

The Christmas Carol Concert – on Thursday 17 December – will now be among the highlights of The Stoller Hall’s new online ‘Broadcasts’ series, which was the first live music programme launched with the support of the UK Government’s Culture Recovery Fund.

The classical music venue was granted £150,000 this October, in recognition of its importance to the cultural sector.

The Stoller Hall’s Christmas Festival will also include young musicians from Chetham’s – the UK’s largest music school – performing in a Christmas Jazz concert on Tuesday 15 December.

Tom Redmond, Joint Principal at Chetham’s School of Music, said: “Our young musicians have reacted to this pandemic incredibly. They’ve developed into remarkable musicians and performers, despite all the difficulty they’ve experienced in 2020. Now, at the end of an extraordinary year, we’ll be enjoying Christmas in the usual way… by sharing some spectacular, heart-warming live music!”

New performances by established artists - specially recorded at The Stoller Hall - will also be released for audiences to view online as part of the month long festival. The new work includes pieces from British violinist Callum Smart, as well new arrangements of Christmas classics by eight-part a cappella vocal ensemble The Apex Singers, on Saturday 12 December.

The Stoller Hall’s annual ‘Makers’ Market’ will be delivered online, across Friday 4 and Saturday 5 December. It will feature a silent auction, as well as previously unseen and hand-made artworks, prints and designs by local artists.

Crafts Council’s recent survey ‘Market for Craft’ showed that 84% of makers cited fairs as their foremost revenue source. With the majority of  fairs cancelled due to the pandemic, the impact of Covid-19 has been devastating for makers and musicians alike.  

Fran Healey, General Manager of The Stoller Hall, said:

“We won’t give up on our long battle to support the creative community in 2020, while providing audiences with the world-class cultural experiences they deserve.

“To finally be able to host live music on our stage is a big deal. Christmas 2020 feels like a turning point for the cultural community’s fight against Covid-19.

“We hope audiences will put the fire on, pour the mulled wine, and enjoy some festive experiences music with us.

“Sing along with Chetham’s students, or sit back and listen to the best classical pieces Christmas has to offer, or pick up your Christmas presents at our Makers’ Markets to support local artists!”

Chetham’s School of Music, in Manchester, is home to more than 300 of the finest young classical musicians in the world, aged from 8-18.

The Stoller Hall, located at Chetham’s in Manchester city centre, is a purpose built classical music venue which opened in 2017. It is unrivalled acoustically in the UK. A membership scheme, newly launched for Christmas, enables audiences to support the venue’s role in the music ecosystem, supporting musicians from school to stage; with priority booking and free digital concerts.

For full event listings, or to book tickets, visit www.stollerhall.com.

]]> stuart.aiken@marketingmanchester.com (Visit Manchester) http://www.visitmanchester.com/ideas-and-inspiration/blog/read/2020/11/christmas-2020-young-singers-and-local-artists-bounce-back-from-lockdown-with-christmas-festival-b1450#comments1450 Fri, 20 Nov 2020 00:00:00 GMT http://www.visitmanchester.com/ideas-and-inspiration/blog/read/2020/11/new-ways-to-discover-peoples-history-museum-b1438 Explore the national museum of democracy during lockdown Although the doors to People’s History Museum (PHM) will be closed as part of the national lockdown during November, this marks the start of .. Explore the national museum of democracy during lockdown

Although the doors to People’s History Museum (PHM) will be closed as part of the national lockdown during November, this marks the start of a series of new ways to discover the stories, collections and spirit of the national museum of democracy. The launch of exciting digital developments and some must watch TV appearances mean there are lots of ways that the national museum of democracy can still be enjoyed until it reopens on Thursday 3 December 2020.

A partnership with Google Arts & Culture opens up the opportunity to discover some of the historic and contemporary stories told at People’s History Museum, from the Peterloo Massacre to Black Lives Matter.  You can also join actor Alfred Enoch as he takes a Google ‘Art for Two’ tour of the galleries with Jenny Mabbott, Head of Collections & Engagement at PHM; how the vote was achieved, the founding of the NHS, the rights of working people, protest movements and much more are all part of the conversation.

Alfred Enoch, says “I feel very lucky to have got a personal virtual tour of People’s History Museum. Amid all the turmoil and tribulations of this year, it feels a very apt time to reflect on the history of democracy in our country and its achievements; not least the foundation of the NHS. Hopefully the Art for Two tour will enable more people to access the museum’s collection while its doors are closed.”

Join Alfred on a virtual tour of PHM.

You can also take your own tour of the museum’s galleries from anywhere in the world, thanks to the use of 3D technology and a project led by The University of Manchester.  You can see the banners on display, explore the kitchen of suffragette Hannah Mitchell, meet the radicals whose stories are told, see rare artefacts from the Peterloo Massacre and much more.  The high resolution images mean a fantastic user experience and the chance to spend time in the galleries in a way that’s not previously been possible.

Enjoy a 3D tour of People’s History Museum.

Jenny Mabbott, Head of Collections & Engagement, says, “The stories and collections that People’s History Museum holds reflect the unique exploration of British democracy; past, present and future.  These are stories that have meaning and relevance to people’s lives today, which makes them incredibly powerful.  As well as people being able to visit the museum when we reopen, we want to reach out to inspire people with the achievements of those who have fought and championed for rights, freedoms and equalities and those who are continuing these quests in today’s world.”

 “We are excited to be able to share some of the work we’ve completed that sees us making huge advancements in the digital accessibility of the museum through collaborations and partnership work.”

The autumn months also bring the chance to see some of People’s History Museum’s collection treasures appearing on television alongside experts Lucy Worsley and Professor Alice Roberts.

On Friday 13 November viewers will be able to see historian Lucy Worsley’s visit to the museum earlier this year unfold, when Royal History’s Biggest Fibs With Lucy Worsley airs on BBC Two.  In it she explores the Regency period, a time of Georgian elegance and Jane Austen romances, but also a period when heightened demand for political reform would lead to the Peterloo Massacre.  This is one of the museum’s headline stories and Lucy’s visit included the opportunity to see a rare Peterloo cane and to find out more about the events this treasured artefact witnessed.

Lucy Worsley says, “I'm so grateful to People's History Museum's Dr Shirin Hirsch for showing me the cane owned by the radical Mr Charles Worsley (not to my knowledge a relation of mine but I'd claim him if I could).  It might be 'only' a walking stick, but it has such a powerful story to tell about how the authorities silenced the peaceful protestors at Peterloo.”

Political reform is also the subject of PHM’s appearance on series 3 of Channel 4’s Britain’s Most Historic Towns.  Professor Alice Roberts visited the museum to see a 1908 Manchester suffragette banner, and to find out more about the city’s role as ‘First in the Fight’ and the history of the suffragette movement that was founded in Manchester by Emmeline Pankhurst in the early 20th century.

Both the Peterloo cane (until 3 January 2021) and the Manchester suffragette banner (until Sunday 14 March 2021) will be on display at People’s History Museum when the museum reopens on Thursday 3 December 2020.

You can register in advance to visit the museum when it reopens on Thursday 3 December 2020.  Entry is free with a suggested donation of £5; all donations support the museum, helping PHM continue to champion ideas worth fighting for.  For further information visit phm.org.uk and to keep in touch you can sign up to the e-newsletter, subscribe to the blog, or follow the museum on social media on Twitter @PHMMcr, Facebook @PHMMcr, and Instagram @phmmcr.

]]> stuart.aiken@marketingmanchester.com (Visit Manchester) http://www.visitmanchester.com/ideas-and-inspiration/blog/read/2020/11/new-ways-to-discover-peoples-history-museum-b1438#comments1438 Mon, 09 Nov 2020 00:00:00 GMT http://www.visitmanchester.com/ideas-and-inspiration/blog/read/2020/11/all-homes-november-theatre-shows-will-now-be-livestreamed-from-their-theatre-1-stage-b1433 HOME have announced that all the theatre shows that were due to be on stage in November will be live streamed from their Theatre 1 stage during lockdown, with tickets available on a pay-what-you-decide basis. HOME have announced that all the theatre shows that were due to be on stage in November will be live streamed from their Theatre 1 stage during lockdown, with tickets available on a pay-what-you-decide basis.

The shows include the World Premiere of David Hoyle’s A Grand Auction of My Life, along with Javaad Alipoor’s The Believers Are But Brothers, Bert and Nasi’s The End and Beats and Elements’ High Rise eState of Mind.

Following the Government announcement on Saturday that theatres were to close during a national lockdown, HOME put into actions plans to switch the shows to be available to an online audience. Each show will be filmed with strict Covid-19 protocols in place, ensuring the safety of the cast and crew.

Additionally, HOME will also host a stream of Daniel Kitson’s Dot. Dot. Dot. which was conceived as an online show.

HOME’s Director and CEO Dave Moutrey said: “We at HOME had gone to great lengths to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for our audiences when we reopened, and the feedback from visitors has been that they felt we had gone above and beyond in every way. Our team had worked tirelessly and we had been enjoying sold out, socially-distanced film screenings, had incredibly managed to bring live theatre back to the stage and had just this weekend reopened our gallery with three simultaneous exhibitions.

“While it is devastating to have to close again, we have always known this was a possibility, and so the team have incredibly been working to not only produce live events but also to always have a Plan B which would allow us to provide enriching, entertaining cultural experiences digitally until we can reopen again. That work is why we can make this announcement today that audiences will be able to experience all three of our artforms digitally during the lockdown.”

Conrad Murray, who was due to appear at HOME with High Rise eState of Mind, said: “When lockdown was announced it was absolutely gutting. I thought straight away about our performance at HOME. It was something that we had to look forward to, and we wanted to share our work with new audiences in Manchester. The upcoming performance was a ray of light amongst a lot of darkness this year. Like a lot of artists and performers, we hadn't left our houses to perform for a long time.

“Now that it is still going ahead as a livestream is super exciting. We haven't done anything like this before, so although things have changed we get to perform our work in front of audiences. And we get to do something that we haven't done before.”

HOME have also reiterated their commitment to supporting the freelance community, who have not been eligible for much of the support funding that has been made available.

Dave Moutrey said: “We recognise it’s an especially difficult time for our colleagues in the freelance sector who are so vital to the cultural ecology of our city and the nation. We’ll continue to invest in commissions and developing new projects during this time and we’ll redouble our efforts to make sure there’s work out there for freelancers.”

During the first lockdown, HOME worked with partners from across the country to commission artists to create the Homemakers series of online works which was watched by audiences from 34 countries including Brazil, Hong Kong and Nepal.  The series is available online until 31 December.

For more information, visit homemcr.org

This acclaimed regional pre-vocational training scheme is open to young people from the North West aged 11 – 16 (once on the scheme dancers can stay until 18), with a passion and talent for dance. The scheme offers young people with exceptional potential, regardless of their personal circumstances, to benefit from world-class specialist training as part of a broad and balanced education. The training programme has a highly successful track record, with graduates progressing to study dance at major UK conservatories including: Rambert School of Ballet and Contemporary Dance, The London School of Contemporary Dance, Central School of Ballet, and the Northern School of Contemporary Dance.

The audition process has been altered in keeping with Government guidelines around the Covid-19 pandemic which means that The Lowry centre is currently closed for the foreseeable future. But in true Showbiz style, the show must go on and so too must the training of the next generation of dancers... The CAT will be facilitating the application and audition process for the first time with remote classes and dance experience days to ensure all potential candidates and young dancers interested in the scheme have the opportunity to be considered digitally.

This year’s application is twofold: In the first instance, interested parties are invited to take part in and experience FREE practical and informative dance workshops delivered live online via ZOOM on Friday evenings in June, July and August 2020. In addition to these weekly 75 minute sessions, those wishing to be considered are then encouraged to take part in one of two Digital Experience Day Workshops where more in depth training and a greater insight into the course is offered. 

A panel consisting of the CAT Management and artist team will informally observe all weekly classes and the Experience Days to ensure those wanting to be considered are seen. They will be observing how students engage and respond to tasks set in these online sessions and encourage those wanting to be considered to engage with as many of the sessions as possible to ensure they have opportunity to be seen*. This will replace the standard and more traditional live audition and offers a unique opportunity for those interested, to be observed over a longer period - giving young people the opportunity to demonstrate the breadth of their creativity and facility whilst being support by the CAT staff, within what is a challenging setting and unusual circumstances. 

The Lowry CAT Scheme has been running for 11 years and is now seeing it’s alumni enter into the industry working with companies such as Matthew Bournes New Adventures, Cilla The Musical, Motionhouse, Southpaw Dance Company, Jasmin Vardimon 2, Disneyland Paris and Opera De Lyon as well as many more.

Jade Aitchison, The Lowry Centre for Advanced Training Manager comments: “ We understand that this process is new to participants and to us and so we hope that by offering free weekly dance classes and online experience days, we are making it as accessible as possible for as many interested candidates to be able to try out for our scheme.  We are looking for passion, commitment and creative potential in dance and we feel that by observing students via our online Zoom classes over a number of weeks rather than in just one single audition, we will be able to really get a sense of who has these key ingredients to pursue a career in dance. We are aware that there will be a reasonable level of challenge due to differing home environments, environmental distractions and WiFi connectivity issues. But with the unique recruitment process designed to run over a long period of engagement, we are confident this will allow for a process that is as fair and equal as possible, giving young people the opportunity to demonstrate the breadth of their ability and potential.”

All interested candidates can apply for the Weekly Workshops and Digital Experience Days via Google Form here. 

From 11am on Sunday 28 June, Manchester Festival of Nature's Twitter page @MancNature will host live events, workshops and film premiers with some of your favourite conservation organisations in the North West.

Joining the festival will be City of Trees, Action for Conservation, Manchester Museum, Manchester Metropolitan University, University of Manchester. Whitworth Art Gallery, Manchester City Council and many more.  

Catch all the action at @MancNature and use the hashtag #MFoN to join in on the day.

Find out more: https://www.lancswt.org.uk/events/manchester-festival-of-nature.

Zofia Kufeldt, Programme Officer for People’s History Museum, says, “As a result of the current situation, we’ve been working on new ways to explore the theme of migration, which feels more important and relevant than ever.  These events are invitations for people to come together, discuss ideas and share experiences, as we would do if the museum was open.”

Have Your Say: Imagine

Wednesday 17 June 2020, 1.30pm to 2.30pm

This event is part of Refugee Week (Monday 15 June to Sunday 21 June 2020), a UK wide festival celebrating the contributions, creativity and resilience of refugees.  Reflecting Refugee Week’s exploration of Imagine as its 2020 theme, PHM’s monthly Have Your Say event will ask participants to imagine a world where everyone is welcome. 

Taking place for the first time on Zoom, the discussion will be opened by Workers’ Educational Association (WEA) tutor Mark Krantz and PHM’s Programme Officer Zofia Kufeldt, but the conversation will be shaped by the participants. Say as much or as little as you’d like.

Have Your Say is suitable for over 16s.  For more information visit: www.phm.org.uk/learn/ideas-worth-exploring/

Take a virtual tour through PHM for Refugee Week #SimpleActs  

Friday 19 June 2020, 11.00am  

Join People’s History Museum for a virtual tour of its galleries and collections inspired by Refugee Week’s eight Simple Acts of things that can be done to stand with refugees and make new community connections.  Discover the stories of those seeking sanctuary that are told through PHM’s galleries and collections and help to re-imagine a shared future.

The tour is suitable to share with over 11s and will take place on PHM’s Twitter @PHMMcr using the hashtag #SimpleActs

A Night with PHM x Heart & Parcel

Thursday 25 June 2020, 7.30pm to 8.30pm

You are invited to join PHM’s Programme Officer Zofia Kufeldt as she chats to the founders of Heart & Parcel, Clare Courtney and Karolina Koscien.  Heart & Parcel is an organisation that brings people together using a love of food as the basis around which to help develop English language skills.  Like the work of Heart & Parcel, this is an event of food and conversation, with Clare and Karolina giving a cooking demonstration of pierogi and salad from their recently published cookbook, which supports the work of Heart & Parcel and includes recipes from some of the women they have worked with.

Zofia will be finding out about the experiences of Heart & Parcel, which uses the simple art of dumpling making as a medium to connect with women from migrant communities around Manchester, enabling them to practice their English in an environment of shared stories.

The event is suitable for over 16s and will livestreamed on YouTube.  For more information visit: www.phm.org.uk/learn/ideas-worth-exploring/

The Fabric of Protest

Saturday 27 June 2020, 2.00pm to 3.00pm

Artist Helen Mather will be leading The Fabric of Protest, with this month’s creative workshop inspired by one of the stories of migration told at People’s History Museum.  Jayaben Desai was a central figure in one of the groundbreaking strikes of the 1970s, the Grunwick strike (1976-1978) in which migrant women would lead the challenge against a system that left them very low paid and with few rights. 

Jayaben was from the Gujarat region of India, home to Kutch embroidery, which features a variety of stitches in bright colours, including chain stitch. Join Helen to create your own mini banner using foil, instead of mirrors, and chain stitches to create geometric patterns around a central message.

The session is suitable for those aged over 11 and will take place on Instagram.  A guide to some of the fabrics and materials it is recommended to use and all the other information about The Fabric of Protest will be available here: www.phm.org.uk/learn/ideas-worth-exploring/

PechaKucha Night Manchester – Vol. 31 ‘Migration’

Thursday 9 July 2020, 7.00pm to 9.00pm

A mixture of designers, illustrators, campaigners and researchers will be sharing inspiring stories in an evening of speedy speeches, each following the 20x20 PechaKucha presentation format that has connected communities globally.  In 20 images, taking 20 seconds per image and with no stopping, the speakers will be sharing their experiences of migration and reflecting upon the current situation when, whether by pandemic or policy, movements are becoming more restricted. 

Included amongst the storytellers is Danielle Rhoda, who was commissioned by People’s History Museum to create a series of colourful hand drawn illustrations to bring to life the theme of migration for its 2020 programme.  Having moved to Britain at the age of 13, Danielle has used her own experiences and those of her family’s global journey to influence and inform her work. 

The event, which will include a Q&A, will take place across various streaming services and is suitable for over 16s.  Places can be booked via Eventbrite from Thursday 11 June 2020 here: www.phm.org.uk/events/pechakucha-night-manchester-vol-31-migration/

People’s History Museum is currently closed due to Covid-19, but you can stay in touch by visiting phm.org.uk, signing up to the e-newsletter, subscribing to the blog, or following the museum on social media on Twitter @PHMMcr, Facebook @PHMMcr, and Instagram @phmmcr.

DigiFest is the creative solution that Manchester Histories has developed with its partners in light of having to cancel the original Manchester Histories Festival scheduled for June, due to the impact of Covid-19.  At the heart of DigiFest 2020 remains a celebration and recognition of the 50th anniversary of the Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act (1970), a landmark piece of legislation that was pioneered by Lord Alf Morris (1928 – 2012). 

Alf Morris was a social reformer who was born and lived in Manchester, where he served as MP for Wythenshawe for 33 years.  To reflect and explore the anniversary of what is known as Alf’s Act, DigiFest will be inspired by the themes of Celebrate – Learn – Challenge.  Individuals and groups are invited to take part by both inspiring the content, or by getting involved in a project to create the content.

Karen Shannon, Chief Executive of Manchester Histories, says, “Alf’s Act was such a milestone moment, an incredibly powerful piece of legislation led by one of Manchester’s groundbreaking figures.  Marking this, and working with individuals and communities to explore where we are 50 years later is very important to Manchester Histories, which is why our team and partners have worked hard to draw up new plans of how we might achieve this in the very different circumstances presented by Covid-19.  We also want to document these times, so part of the programme will include a discussion around Covid-19 and the impact this has had on disabled people’s lives.”

DigiFest 2020 will feature two days of films, discussions, speeches, digital art, music, song and more.  There are opportunities to get involved in the creation of this in the following ways:

• Send in your ideas of what you’d like to see featured as part of the live broadcast element of the programme, which will include discussions and debates.
• Contribute any pre-recorded digital content – film, music, documentary, performance – that promotes your organisation or group that fits in with the themes of the festival.
• Record your thoughts of this important moment in history by sending in a short recording (video or audio - including British Sign Language) taken on a mobile phone that addresses the following question: What impact has Covid-19 had on you and the lives of disabled people?

You can download the full details and links of where to send information to via Manchester Histories website: www.manchesterhistories.co.uk. The deadline for all submissions is Monday 6 July 2020.

Gill Morris, daughter of Lord Alf Morris, says “The Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act changed millions of lives not just in this country, but worldwide.  My father’s vision to ‘add life to years’ was ground-breaking.  Born in Ancoats as one of a family of 10 he saw first-hand how disability was hidden away and ignored. I’m so proud of Alf, my Dad; a truly great man – always a Mancunian.  Against the odds, he led the way and changed the law. It is time to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Alf's Act, which is a very proud moment for me and all my family, but also for Manchester.  The festival will build on the legacy and celebrate equality and fairness for disabled people – but also acknowledge that a boy from the slums did good!” 

Alys Young, University of Manchester Lead for Disability Equalities, says “The University of Manchester is proud to be working under the leadership of disabled people, and in collaboration with the Morris family and Manchester Histories, to celebrate and learn from the legacy of ‘Alf’s Act’. Difficult questions remain about equality of disabled people in today’s society and this festival will also shed light on those alongside seeing in action the freedoms and rights that this ground-breaking legislation has engendered.”

DigiFest 2020 is collaboration between The University of Manchester and its Disabled Staff Network, the family of the late Lord Morris of Manchester, Manchester Metropolitan University, University of Manchester’s Students’ Union, TUC (Manchester), Manchester City Council and the Greater Manchester Coalition of Disabled People.  It is funded by Manchester City Council, Greater Manchester Combined Authority, Wellcome Trust and Historic England.

Manchester Histories is a charity that seeks to work with people, organisations and partners to reveal, share and celebrate Greater Manchester’s diverse histories and heritage.  The festivals it organises are annual, with this being the 6th to take place. 

To find out more about Manchester Histories, its work and projects visit www.ManchesterHistories.co.uk

The Negroni is a classic Italian cocktail which typically consists of equal parts of gin, Campari and sweet vermouth. Manchester Gin has created three perfectly pre-made Negronis so that the popular cocktail can be easily enjoyed from home, without the need to stock up on cocktail ingredients or perfect your bartending skills. To serve simply stir down over ice, then strain into an ice-filled tumbler or short glass then garnish.

Signature Negroni

For a traditional tipple, try the Signature Negroni, created with Manchester Gin Signature, one of the most awarded gins in the country, Campari and Antica Formula. This mix makes for a contemporary take on the classic cocktail with a full bodied, yet balanced flavour filled with a rich orange notes and underpinned with bold tannins.

Raspberry Infused Negroni

If you prefer a sweeter sip, go for the Raspberry Infused Negroni, consisting of the perfect mix of Manchester Gin Raspberry Infused, Aperol and Cocchi Rosa. This cocktail’s floral flavour makes for the perfect summer drink and is complemented with a subdued bitterness which provides that classic Negroni kick.

FAC51The Haçienda Negroni

To add some zest to your World Gin Day, try the FAC51 The Haçienda Negroni which combines Manchester Gin FAC51The Haçienda, a lemon and lime flavoured gin made in collaboration with musical legend, Peter Hook, to honour Manchester’s famous acid house history. This zingy gin is paired with Aperol and Manchester Gin’s sister brand, Forty-Five Vermouth. This makes for a bright, refreshing Negroni which remains bold in flavour without becoming too bitter.

Manchester Gin co-founder and Master Distiller, Jen Wiggins, said, “Since we opened our premium cocktail bar and restaurant, Three Little Words, last September, we’ve loved using our gins to create interesting cocktails for our customers. As we are unable to see our customer’s face-to-face this World Gin Day, we wanted to create a fun way for the occasion to be enjoyed from home. We’ve got an amazing team who have really captured our collective creativity with an incredible take on the classic cocktail with these three original concoctions.

“We’ve been working throughout lockdown to provide fun and interesting ways to keep gin lovers entertained, including our Stay Home Tasting Set, our Gin Lockdown Package and have even broken the World Record for the World’s Biggest Gin Tasting, where 1,856 drinkers across the country live streamed our tasting to raise money for homeless charity, Big Change MCR. Our new Negroni range is yet another fun way to enjoy staying home whilst being able to sample our gins in a different context.”

Each bottle of Negroni is priced at £15 for 200ml and contains two to four servings, depending on your preference.

Visit manchestergin.co.uk to shop Manchester Gin’s Negroni range.

Participants are asked to buy a ticket for the corresponding tour, and they will receieve an email that includes a secure invitation. The sessions are due to last 1 hour, and will include a number of images, some of which have never been shown in print or digitally before, which are designed to get you under the skin of the city. There will also be a Q&A session at the end of the tour. The tours will also be available aftewards, allowing you to revisit it as many times as you want. 

Sessions will take place on Tuesdays at 6.30pm and Saturdays at 5pm. The tours have an introductory price of £6 each, or you can buy 6 tours for just £25, saving £11. 

The tours currently on sale are: 

The Secrets of Cross Street
The Secrets of London Road Fire Station
Manchester's Amazing Tunnels
The Secrets of Old Trafford
80s Manchester from Joy Division to New Order
Chetham's Extraordinary Medieval Buildings
The Secrets of Oxford Street
The Secrets of Castlefield and St John's
Manchester, the American Link
60s & 70s Manchester
The Secrets of Chapel Street and Peel Park
The Ghosts of Manchester
The Secrets of the Refuge Building (Kimpton Clock Tower Hotel)
The Secrets of the Northern Quarter
The Pubs and Lost Pubs of Manchester 
The Secrets of Didsbury

Tickets are available from: www.jonathanschofieldtours.com/the-zoom-tours-series.

United We Stream – Our City Speaks

Sunday 31 May 7pm

Contact are delighted to announce a new event ‘Our City Speaks,’ featuring the city’s best poets and spoken word artists.

Headlined by poets Tony Walsh and Keisha Thompson, the event is a collaboration with Manchester City of Literature, spoken word collective Young Identity and is part of Greater Manchester’s United We Stream.

United We Stream is an online showcase of the city’s best performers, musicians and DJs, and has already hosted performances from Mancunian cultural icons including New Order and Maxine Peake, as well as digital editions of some of Manchester’s biggest club nights.

Our City Speaks will be hosted by Contact Board member, City of Literature Community Engagement Manager and regular artist Reece Williams, and will feature a mix of sets specially pre-recorded for the night, and solo artists appearing live at United We Stream’s streaming studio located at The Met, Bury, which has been specially constructed for socially distanced live broadcasting.

Poets and artists confirmed so far include Mandla Rae, Roma Havers, Isaiah Hull, Saf Elsenossi, Damani Dennisur, Jardel Rodrigues, Dave Viney, Nadia Begum, and Argh Kid, with more yet to be announced.

The performances will be live from 7pm on United We Stream’s Facebook and Twitter accounts. United We Stream is free to watch, and donations are welcomed towards their fundraiser, which provides aid to Manchester-based entertainment venues, bars and restaurants and artists struggling from closures and revenue loss during the COVID-19 pandemic.

A Week’s Notice

For seven weeks, seven different artists associated with Contact came up with a daily series of prompts, designed to make you take notice of the world around you. Curated especially for the current lockdown, there’s all manner of content to make you sit up, take notice and creatively respond to the current situation. Explore the prompts here, many of them are suitable for families to do together.

https://contactmcr.com/development/a-weeks-notice/

Homeskool Beatbox Adventures with Shlomo

Every Thursday, 2pm on facebook.com/contactmcr.

Contact have partnered with world renowned beatbox champion SK Shlomo to bring the art of beatboxing into your living room, every Thursday at 2pm.

Homeskool Beatbox Adventures is a weekly, livestreamed interactive show for kids and their families to find their true voices and create their own music.

The episodes will be streamed live from the Contact Facebook page at 2pm every Thursday.
Each week you can learn new vocal skills from SK Shlomo, the critically acclaimed world-champion beatboxer who has previously collaborated with Bjork, Ed Sheeran and Lily Allen, played at Glastonbury and broken world records.

Inspired by the success of his critically acclaimed tour show, Shlomo’s Beatbox Adventures For Kids,  we’ll be teaching kids how to become Superstar Beatboxers. The lessons are free, but Shlomo is aiming to raise £2500 for NHS Charities Together.

With both Number One Riverside and the accompanying Dippy exhibition at Touchstones Rochdale, Museum and Art Gallery, temporarily closed, the council and Link4Life wanted to find a way to share Dippy with the public. To do this they harnessed the power of technology to enable dino fans to see Dippy in Number One Riverside and enjoy the Dippy exhibition at Touchstones from the safety of their home.

Councillor Janet Emsley, cabinet member for community, culture and neighbourhoods at Rochdale Borough Council, said: “Dippy went down an absolute storm in Rochdale. We welcomed over 110,000 visitors in just five weeks. More than 9,000 schoolchildren from 100 schools across the region met Dippy and visited the exhibition at Touchstones as part in this once in a lifetime experience. We created something incredibly special here and were obviously sorry to have to close our doors so early in the run.

“We don’t want people to miss out on Dippy because they can’t visit him. That’s why we organised the virtual tour, so people can still have access to this wonderful opportunity despite everything that’s going on.”

Dippy’s stay in Rochdale was due to end on 28 June, but tour dates may change as a result of the ongoing situation.

The virtual tour of Dippy in Number One Riverside and the Dippy exhibition at Touchstones Rochdale, can be viewed at: visitrochdale.com/dippy

People can also follow both the council and Link4Life’s social media accounts and the twitter account @DippyOnTour for the latest news on Dippy on Tour.

Ideas Worth Exploring features PHM favourites that have been taken online, digital learning resources and brand new initiatives, all of which can be accessed and experienced remotely until the museum is able to open to the public following the lockdown across the UK that has resulted from COVID-19. 

Katy Ashton, Director of People’s History Museum, says, “We are currently reshaping the work that we do and looking at different ways of sharing this, and Ideas Worth Exploring is one of the results of this.  It brings together some of our existing and new resources as one collection making it easier to access and explore People’s History Museum, as well as get involved in some of our interactive activities.  It is designed for those with little ones to entertain, to add creativity to home schooling and to inspire home learning for adults.”

My First Protest Song

Thursday 7 May, Thursday 4 June, Thursday 2 July, and Saturday 1 August 2020 11.00am to 11.40am.

One of the most popular sessions for babies and tots, and their grown ups, this PHM regular is now being streamed online for all to enjoy. Join singer-songwriter Matt Hill, who, with guitar in hand, invites you to participate in a workshop full of toe tapping tunes from times of change.  Follow PHM on Facebook to find out when and how to take part facebook.com/PHMMcr/

Vital Voters

Providing an immersive experience for under 18s that takes them through the past, present and future of democracy, Vital Voters is a brand new digital project created by People’s History Museum.

It is designed to inspire the thinking and imagination of young people, so they can understand the workings and possibilities that democracy presents.  Film making is at the heart of Vital Voters, with all the guidance on making a film from home available, with the best shorts submitted to be added to the campaign gallery. To find out more visit phm.org.uk/vital-voters

PHM’s treasures to explore

People’s History Museum holds the country’s largest collection of material relating to the development of democracy in Britain. It’s an eclectic and colourful collection that features banners, badges, posters, artwork, cartoons, placards and personal items that invite exploration of the stories of the revolutionaries, reformers, workers, voters and citizens who championed, then and now, for change and rallied for rights and representation.

2020 marks the tenth anniversary of the museum being in its current home, which has prompted the team to pick out ten of their favourite items; these include the 1908 Manchester suffragette banner, a commemorative plate to the Equal Pay Act of 1970 and a placard from the 2019 Youth Climate Strike in Manchester.  Take time out to enjoy reading the stories behind these fascinating objects here: phm.org.uk/collections

Object highlights on film

Items of political memorabilia, electoral materials and iconic objects that have earned their place in history all feature within a series of films made by Steven Fielding, Professor of Political History at the University of Nottingham.  Steven examines not just the historical significance of the pieces, but their relevance to today’s world.  Take a look and pick out the items you’d like to see in person when the museum is able to re-open.  You can watch the films here: phm.org.uk/blogposts/steven-fielding-highlights-five-objects-in-a-series-of-films-for-phm

Peterloo to the Pankhursts

Starting Monday 4 May

For adult learners who are inspired to take a deeper dive into the evolution of democracy, ‘Peterloo to the Pankhursts: Radicalism and Reform in the 19th Century’ is an online learning course that looks at the history of radicalism and reform, and the factors that bound events a century apart, in a way that is accessible to all.  The formation of modern democratic ideas is the starting point, and the campaign for votes for women is where the learning journey ends.  

The learning experience is brought to life through the examination of original artefacts and documents, the use of specially commissioned illustrations and animations, and the opportunity to watch compelling historical testimony and speeches – some dramatised for the first time.  The sessions are led by expert archivists, curators and historians.

Taking place on the FutureLearn platform Peterloo to the Pankhursts: Radicalism and Reform in the 19th Century’ takes four weeks, requiring five hours of weekly study and begins on Monday 4 May.  For further information visit: futurelearn.com/courses/peterloo-to-the-pankhursts-radicalism-and-reform-in-the-nineteenth-century.

All of the Ideas Worth Exploring activities can be found here: phm.org.uk/learn/ideas-worth-exploring.

People’s History Museum is currently closed due to COVID-19, but you can stay in touch by visiting phm.org.uk, signing up to the e-newsletter, subscribing to the blog, or following the museum on social media on Twitter @PHMMcr, Facebook @PHMMcr, and Instagram @phmmcr.

The Monastery Manchester (also known as Gorton Monastery) is a former Church and Franciscan Friary now functioning as an event venue, heritage site and visitor attraction.

Designed by architect Edward Welby Pugin, the site functioned as a Church and Franciscan Friary between its completion in 1872 until 1989 when the site was deconsecrated and the friars left. Abandoned and derelict for many years after a failed property development scheme, the site was saved by a group of volunteers.

The Monastery is now maintained by the same charitable trust that saved the building who work on its continued preservation so that it can be enjoyed for future generations.

This digital tour was originally created for the Monastery's Facebook page in response to the Covid-19 pandemic so that visitors could still access the site. It is a completely digital tour using previously recorded 3D mapping software, screen capture and video editing.

Find out more about The Monastery Manchester.

Some of the north of England’s most high profile orchestras and classical musicians will star in a specially created virtual concert, streaming for the first time on Tuesday 5 May from 7pm.

The online event will mark the third birthday of The Stoller Hall, in Manchester.

The Stoller Hall opened in April 2017, and has been hailed by critics as the UK’s best music venue, acoustically, for classical chamber music.

Currently closed as a result of the coronavirus lockdown, The Stoller Hall will mark its anniversary with the free online concert, hosted by BBC Radio 3 presenter and The Stoller Hall’s artistic director, Tom Redmond.

The concert will feature some of the best classical music created in the north in recent years, alongside performances from global artists such as Soweto Gospel Choir, who are due to appear at The Stoller Hall after the current lockdown.

Manchester Collective’s unique performance of Messiaen's Quartet for The End of Time at The Stoller Hall is among the highlights, alongside a section of Manchester Camerata’s stunning Mozart series.

Celebrating The Stoller Hall’s links to Chetham’s School of Music, the concert includes Chetham’s Symphony Orchestra’s performance of Tchaikovsky’s Romeo and Juliet Fantasy Overture, conducted by Franz Krager in February 2019, the last major orchestral performance at the hall before lockdown.

The concert includes some of the best performances ever staged in The Stoller Hall, alongside new interview footage with musicians who have played there.

Specially recorded conversations with artists, such as Manchester Collective’s Adam Szabo, are aired for the first time, revealing an insight into the full live music experience at The Stoller Hall, while the acousticians who helped create the venue reflect on its design.

Find out more https://stollerhall.com/whats-on/live-stream-the-stoller-hall-birthday-concert/

The online concert will include the following performances:

• Chetham's Symphony Orchestra – Tchaikovsky, Romeo and Juliet – Fantasy Overture, performed at The Stoller Hall 14 April 2020

• Iyad – Khachaturian, Piano Sonata in Eb Mayor: II Andante, recorded at The Stoller Hall

• Chetham’s Symphony Orchestra with members of the Halle - Stravinsky, The Firebird performed at The Stoller Hall 23 April 2017

• Manchester Camerata – Mozart, Piano Concerto No, performed at The Stoller Hall

• Manchester Collective - An Exploration of Messiaen's Quartet for The End of Time, performed at The Stoller Hall December 2017

• Manchester Camerata – Delius, Aquarelles for String Orchestra, performed at The Stoller Hall 17 January 2020. 

• Northern Film Orchestra – The Adventure Continues – Mitchell Gibbs, recorded at The Stoller Hall 25 January 2020

• Ben Holland – Kreisler, Scherzo-Caprice from Recitative und Scherzo-Caprice, recorded at The Stoller Hall

Bringing together the whole of the Manchester literature scene; from publishers to booksellers, writers to readers and everyone in between, Manchester City of Literature has launched A City Connected.

This new microsite already has 50+ events and activities listed since launching last week, several recurring events, with more content added everyday.

The site can be navigated by searching for information relevant to readers, writers, young people, whether viewers are looking specifically for online events, ways to support publishers by buying books, or daily activities for kids and adults. There’s also a weekly calendar view so you can plan your week, and a full activity feed where you can scroll through what’s on and take your pick.

A City Connects emphasises that reading and writing are social not solitary activities and will allow readers and writers of all abilities, ages and backgrounds to access support and resources.

Check out everything they’re doing on social media via #MCRCityofLitConnects @MCRCityofLit. 

Manchester City of Literature has also developed a series of community projects coming in the next weeks and months, with an aim to further engage the community with literature across Manchester during this time

Find out more about A City Connected.

Bury Art Museum and Sculpture Centre is currently closed but their team has been busy working to create BAM Online, a collection of resources which can be read, used and downloaded by their visitors.

These resources can be used to support creative, family learning or for anyone to do in their spare time; find themed activities such as arty worksheets, zine-making guides and colouring pages.

They have also included feature-articles and quizzes inspired by Bury Art Museum's fantastic art collection. 

BAM Online - Weekly

Click here to find the weekly themed activities and things to read. 

BAM Online - Archive

Visit the Archive page here to view activities, resources and things to read from previous weeks.

Online Exhibition - The Pothole

Whilst Bury Sculpture Centre is closed, they're bringing to you virtually The Pothole, by Anna Reading.

View the exhibition with gallery guides and information here.

Sketchbook STILL Social

Bury Art Museum has launched Sketchbook STILL Social, ​a digital hub to continue their lively and informal drawing classes to help keep your creativity engaged.

They are encouraging followers to join/like the Facebook group here for more information and to get involved.

The Stoller Hall is a live music performance and event venue in the heart of Manchester. Based alongside Chetham’s School of Music, we’ve established a reputation as the home of world-class chamber music.

The vibrant programme offers everything from chamber music, the best international touring artists, home-grown folk, contemporary takes on classical music, jazz, family concerts and the best of young musical talent. Running through the programme is the ethos of learning, collaboration and exchange which have come to epitomise Chetham’s School and The Stoller Hall’s role in the city.

Whilst we can’t bring you live music, up close like this for a while.

We will do so again.

Go behind the scenes at The Stoller Hall

Flashback to Manchester Collective at The Stoller Hall
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAyc-Gf9ntQ

Together we will beat this crisis! When we do, live music will return.
Explore our rescheduled performances: https://stollerhall.com/cancelled-events/

Singer-Songwriter and postponed artist Laura Marling shares her online Guitar Tutorials
https://www.instagram.com/lauramarling/?hl=en

Our thank you to our NHS staff and all our Key Workers
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qoaC_yxkKtM

A special message from English folk musician Eliza Carthy
“We should have been seeing each other and we’re not.”
Tonight, Eliza was due to perform at The Stoller Hall. We’ll see her in January instead. Until then, this message and special performance is just for you...
“Look after each other.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YrPY3wSQu50&t=6s

Our physical venue is silent right now. But social distancing doesn’t mean we’re alone. We’re united by music.
We've pulled together a special playlist of some of the world's best music.
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1lTV7WOcEFkSdUsGNLYipK?si=VmlE6rLDS2q3ImZksDImdw

A “message of love” from The Grahams
“Stay safe and well everybody. We’ll see you real soon.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=88nyB0M4mmA

Amazing classical music, brought to you online
Originally recorded at The Stoller Hall, watch Raphael Wallfisch and the Northern Chamber Orchestra online, Saturday 18 April, 7.30pm
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VcRlyIsuj6A

From their home to your home, Company Chameleon invite you to get moving and enjoy their Spring 2020 online programme. Whether you're a professional looking to develop your practice, or a young person eager to explore creativity through movement, their programme celebrates the wonder of dance and has something for everyone.

The Wonder of Dance

Bringing dance and movement to the mix, Manchester dance company, Company Chameleon, celebrate and share the wonder of dance in their online programme for April and May, which has something for everyone.  Reimagine movement and get creative through dance on Challenge Tuesdays; enjoy powerful and original dance theatre from the comfort of your sofa on Theatre Thursdays; and join Kevin and Anthony, the Company’s Co-Artistic Directors, with their little ones, and get moving with your children on Family Fridays. 

Find out more: https://bit.ly/2xQ9poq 

Isolation Improvs 

Company Chameleon’s Isolation Improvs series goes into the home of Manchester’s professional dancers and sees them reimagine their living spaces through dance and movement. The series of 12 short videos are entertaining and fun to watch, and celebrate the joy of dance. 

Watch the series here: https://bit.ly/34Hn0uN   

A major exhibition of football shirts will make its full debut online.

Strip! How Football Got Shirty, opened at the National Football Museum in November and has been a huge hit with visitors.

With the museum closed during the coronavirus crisis, curators have now transferred highlights from the physical exhibition to the internet.

Visitors can enjoy in-depth analysis, opinion, and discussion by the exhibition curators and shirt industry insiders into what makes certain shirts so special.

Don your kit and get involved at https://nationalfootballmuseumstrip.com/

As part of the online action, the nation is also asked to take part in the ultimate poll to decide the Greatest Shirt of All Time (G.O.A.T).

For the first time vote whether Crystal Palace away (1976-77) is really better than Juventus (1989-90) or if Wales (1976-79) can really put Denmark (1986-88) to the sword. 

Watch interviews with Ina Franzmann - designer of the classic Adidas 1988-1991 West Germany shirt, hear from present day kit creators from top brands, and read about the modern day shirts which carry ethical and environmental messages.

Strip! How Football Got Shirty, opened at the National Football Museum in November.

It explores the design of 200 football jerseys, unpicking the global fascination with shirts and how they have influenced football culture, design, fashion and technology.

The exhibition examines how football shirts have developed from mere kit to genuine objects of desire, looking at the design of the football shirt, from the functional to the aesthetic, influential designers and manufacturers and the rise of the football hipster, as well as detailing iconic shirts and shirt disasters.

Creating An Icon:

Each week’s schedule on the MIF website, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, and will include full and free streams of events from previous festivals, talks and discussions from key friends across arts in Manchester and beyond, and MIF Originals podcast.

On top of this, MIF are launching an open call for artist commissions and residencies, aiming to provide valuable income and support to a community that’s been hit especially hard by the pandemic.

Here's what's coming up and recent performances:

Friday 22nd May

A reimagining of MIF17’s hit Party Skills for the End of the World, from award-winning theatrical innovators Nigel Barrett and Louise Mari of cult performance collective Shunt, will be presented on Friday 22 May, 7.30pm. Originally staged in a unique Salford building, 2017’s Party Skills… was a wild, immersive show that showed us how to get by when the end comes and how to celebrate everything that makes life worth living. Now, exclusively for MIF LIVE, Louise and Nigel have created Party Skills for the End of the World (Lockdown Edition), an entirely new immersive online party experience where audiences can meet, mingle – and learn a few new skills to help them through their locked-down lives.

Friday 15th May

On Friday the 15th MIF Live will see a rescheduled streaming of FKA twigs’ Soundtrack 7, created and filmed during the artist’s MIF15 residency at the Old Granada Studios. Conceptualised as an abstract autobiographical piece, Soundtrack 7 includes performances set to How’s That, Ultraviolet, and Good to Love among other tracks by the artist, and is bound together by a striking, repeated recitation of Thomas Wyatt’s poem I Find No Peace (an excerpt from which opened twigs’s critically acclaimed LP1). Emphasising the grit and physicality of dance, FKA twigs describes the project as ‘flesh, sweat, feeling, muscle, and a live movement, no air brushing, no frills’. The film will be followed by an exclusive in-conversation between FKA twigs and Artistic Director of the Serpentine Galleries Hans Ulrich Obrist.

Friday 8th May

The musician, storyteller, actor and activist, Riz Ahmed, will join MIF Live for Riz Ahmed in Conversation on Friday 8 May at 7.30pm to discuss his life and work, including his latest project The Long Goodbye. Unfolding over the course of a recently released album and short film, and a forthcoming new live show (commissioned and produced by MIF and BAM) which was due to premiere in Manchester last month, The Long Goodbye turns our divided political times into deeply personal matter through the metaphor of a romantic break-up. Riz will be talking about his work and life in the company of Ciaran Thapar, youth worker and author of the forthcoming Cut Short: Youth, Violence and Loss in the City, and MIF Artistic Director John McGrath. Complementing the discussion, on Saturday morning, Joy Alpuerto Ritter, choreographer on The Long Goodbye live show, will give a free online dance class inspired by the show.

Friday 1st May

MIF LIVE continues this week with Re:Creating Europe, an exploration of Europe through the words that have defined its history, directed by prolific theatre director Ivo van Hove. It will be streamed on MIF’s YouTube channel on Friday 1 May, 7.30pm, introduced with a piece specially recorded for this online presentation, written and read by Michael Morpurgo.

Re: Creating Europe weaves together a multi-layered tapestry of words from artists, thinkers and political leaders – from Shakespeare to Goethe, Churchill to Obama – to explore the essence of Europe, and inviting audiences to consider its  past, present and future. This thought-provoking production was originally presented at the Festival in July 2019, with a cast that included Adjoa Andoh, Christopher Eccleston, Lemn Sissay, Juliet Stevenson and Michael Morpurgo, appearing alongside van Hove’s Internationaal Theater Amsterdam on stage at The Lowry in Salford.

Friday 17th April

New Order + Liam Gillick: So it goes.. is the first show announced for MIF LIVE, Manchester International Festival’s new free online programme for audiences at home during the lockdown. The exclusive new edit will be streamed at 7.30pm on Friday 17 April, kickstarting the weekly release of archive shows, talks, behind-the-scenes insights and a new series of Festival in My House.

Originally presented as part of MIF17, New Order + Liam Gillick: So it goes. . saw the legendary Manchester band take over the city’s iconic Old Granada Studios, where Joy Division made their 1978 television debut on Tony Wilson’s So It Goes programme, for a very special series of intimate performances created in collaboration with visual artist Liam Gillick.

Salford Museum and Art Gallery has been open to the public since 1850 and whilst we aren’t welcoming visitors through our doors we are inviting them to join us on our social media for activities, crafts and a digital art gallery all at your fingertips.

Find our artwork online!

For the past few years we’ve been working with Artuk to photograph and digitise some of our artworks both on display and in our collection, available to browse at your leisure and even purchase your own prints.

This includes everything from Victorian favourites such as Famine by John Charles Dollman to modern classics such as the work of Geoffrey Key.

https://artuk.org/discover/artworks/search/venue:salford-museum-art-gallery-6548

Get crafty via social media

Salford Museum is home to incredibly popular craft socials each month, and we’re taking these online. Our expert crafter Caroline Coates will be creating some DIY craft videos using materials you can find around your home. These will be published over the next few months.

If you’re looking for something to do with the kids, our family activities are also going online! Our heritage facilitators have developed some fun crafts that you can do from the comfort of your own home, which will also be uploaded onto our Facebook page.

https://www.facebook.com/salfordmuseum/

https://twitter.com/SalfordMuseum

Donate via JustGiving

As you can see, our staff have been working hard to ensure that whilst we can’t open the doors, the museum is still able to welcome visitors online. Our museum is run by Salford Community Leisure helped by support from the people we serve.

If you’d like to help support the museum during shutdown, you can do so on our justgiving page below

https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/salfordmuseum

The Exchange’s unique auditorium is powerfully democratic, a space where audiences and performers meet as equals, entering and exiting through the same doors. It invites everyone to understand the past, engage in today’s big questions, collectively imagine a better future and lose themselves in the moment of a great night out.

Inside the West Side Story Rehearsal Room

When the Royal Exchange Theatre staged WEST SIDE STORY in 2019 – it was one of the fastest-selling and most successful shows they had ever staged. So for the first time in their history, it was decided to bring a show back  - and it was scheduled for Spring 2020. On just the second day of rehearsals the theatre was forced to close – but WEST SIDE STORY will definitely be returning to the Royal Exchange stage in the future.  Here’s a glimpse inside the rehearsal room, and a little taste of things to come!

Stand on the Royal Exchange Stage!

Follow in the footsteps of Don Warrington, Maxine Peake, Helen Mirren and countless others to take your place on the Royal Exchange stage!

Suspended from four of the Hall’s enormous columns, only the ground-floor seating and stage area rest on the floor in this seven sided 150 tonne module.  A 360° performance space means every audience member sees the performance from their own perspective, and with no seat further than nine metres from the stage, even epic productions are an intimate experience.

Check out the tour here. 

In 2019 the Coliseum invited writers of all ages and levels of experience to submit short plays inspired by Oldham and consisting of 100 words or less. Throughout September the submitted plays were displayed around the theatre in crafty forms and creative places for audiences to discover and enjoy. The Mini-Podcast episode 100 Word Plays (about Oldham) features 17 of the submitted 100 word plays, written by well-known writers including Julie Hesmondhalgh (Coronation Street, Broadchurch and currently appearing in The Trouble with Maggie Cole alongside Dawn French), writers of previous Coliseum hits: Ian Kershaw (Bread & Roses, The Mist in the Mirror and Star-Cross’d) and Lindsey Williams (Meat Pie, Sausage Roll and Dreamers) and local emerging writers.

The 100 Word Plays (about Oldham) were recorded remotely by a cast of Greater Manchester actors including: John Askew (Netflix’s The English Game), Natalie Gavin (also Netflix’s The English Game, plus Alma Capstick in ITV’s Jericho), star of last year’s pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk Sam Glen (also the Coliseum’s productions of The Kitchen Sink and Star-Cross’d and BBC’s Let it Shine with Gary Barlow), Darren Jeffries, Jack Radcliffe and Coliseum Associate and Supported Artists: Hafsah Aneela Bashir, RedBobble Arts (Kelly Munro-Fawcett, Louisa May Parker and Martha Simon), Fine Comb Theatre (Rachel McMurray and Catherine Morefield) and Sorcha McCaffrey.   

Coliseum Artistic Director Chris Lawson commented: “It was always our intention to record some of the 100 Word Plays as part of a podcast, but the situation we currently find ourselves in has meant that we can use these wonderful short plays to not only bring art that celebrates our town into people’s homes, but to also provide opportunities for twelve brilliant actors from our region. We have plans in place for the next Mini-Podcast episodes, so keep an eye on our Social Media channels for the next instalment.  We're also making plans with other organisations in Oldham, the North West and nationally, more details of which will be announced soon.”

The Coliseum’s first Mini-Podcast Series episode 100 Word Plays (about Oldham) is available to listen to at coliseum.org.uk/minipodcast-e01 or on Soundcloud at soundcloud.com/oldhamcoliseum/minipodcast-e01

Manchester Museum has uploaded it's digital content onto a brand new #MMinQuarantine website so you can explore and enjoy the Museum in your own home.

It hopes to, "entertain, educate and spark joy and wonder until we re-open" and from what we've seen so far it certainly does.

Manchester Museum in Quarantine website

The Manchester Open was the most successful exhibition in HOME’s history – with over 32,000 people attending, surpassing even David Lynch: My Head is Disconnected.

While the exhibition had to close early due to the coronavirus outbreak, there are still many ways you can enjoy the work of the Manchester Open artists online.

Browse HOME's gallery of images from the launch night, and relive the experience with their video.

In total, you will get access to over 700 items celebrating the history of Manchester delivered by Manchester’s cultural institutions and by The Museum of Youth Culture in London.  

You will be able to discover exclusive photographs of political leaders, music icons, concerts, LGBT community, and much much more.    

The Lowry 

The Lowry invites you for a virtual tour of the museum. You will be able to explore some of the exhibition rooms as well as discovering some of Laurence Stephen Lowry’s most famous industrial artworks.   

The National Football Museum

If you never had a chance to visit The National Football Museum, now is the time. You will be able to enjoy three online exhibitions: 

• The Fifa World Cup in 24 objects 

• The fascinating history of the Women’s World Cup 

• Celebrating football through art 

Manchester City Stadium 

In case you are missing the football, Manchester City invites you for a virtual tour of the stadium from pitchside.  

It has never been so easy to visit Manchester.

With its doors currently closed due to coronavirus, The Lowry in Salford has launched a new, free way for people to continue to enjoy the arts.

Launching on The Lowry Blog, Love Lowry will be a daily service of creative activities and art experiences for people to enjoy from their homes.

Julia Fawcett OBE chief executive of The Lowry, said: “Our visitors engage with us for many different reasons, the escapism of a night at the theatre, a walk around our exhibitions or the joy of taking part in a creative workshop. The Lowry offers so much to so many.

“The arts have always played a valuable role in people’s mental wellbeing and at a time when social-distancing and self-isolation is the new normal, its role is now more important than ever.

“I’m really proud of the online programme we’ve pulled together – and we’ve began sharing content immediately. Hopefully, this will help people to engage with the arts and keep their minds and their bodies active.”

"The programme will offer things such as creative activities for children, adults and families, the opportunity to experience digital art designed to be experienced online and the chance to 'watch again' art experiences The Lowry has in its digital archive."

All the activities on offer are free of charge.

Please follow The Lowry’s social media channels for the latest content:
 
Facebook: /TheLowrySalford
Twitter: @The_Lowry
Instagram: @The_Lowry
 
The Lowry Blog can be found here: https://thelowryblog.wordpress.com/

Manchester arts venue HOME are spearheading a plan to take brand-new live experiences from the homes of artists into the homes of their audiences, defying the coronavirus outbreak.

Homemakers is a series of newly-commissioned work which asks theatre and live art makers to create new works at home, for an audience who are also at home, challenging the definition of “live theatre”.

Artists commissioned so far include Bryony Kimmings, Javaad Alipoor, Ad Infinitum and Plaster Cast Theatre.

The final works could be live-streamed performance, video, audio, text, games, personal encounters - or something completely different, and will be made available on HOME’s website on a ‘pay-what-you-decide’ basis. It will be made accessible to the widest possible audience through captioning, audio description, and providing relaxed versions where appropriate.

HOME Associate Director Jude Christian said: “This project is a response to the immediate crisis facing artists, audiences and arts organisations. We want to provide artists with a platform to keep making the kind of brilliant, groundbreaking work that venues like HOME exist to programme, and to keep bringing our audiences the best of theatre and live art while our doors are closed.

“Like everyone else, HOME is currently facing an unprecedented and unpredictable situation, and our resources are severely limited. However, Homemakers is designed to evolve, and we’ll be collaborating with our colleagues across the industry to expand the project.”

Bryony Kimmings said: “I’m excited to see how I make work digitally, I’ve always focused on human bodies living, breathing and feeling all together in a room. What happens when you take that away. Is it possible to still create that connection remotely?! Who knows! We’ll have a bash.”

George Mann, Co-Artistic Director of Ad Infinitum, said: “Cancelling a performance is always devastating. Closing theatres seems unimaginable. But, having theatre as a concept cancelled for the foreseeable, is just absolutely insane and forces you to ask existential questions that make your brain want to pop. It really hits home just how fragile our existence is. We’re trying to get to grips with an ever-changing situation, it's altered our future in ways we still don't understand, but we’re doing everything we can to protect the people we collaborate with. So, getting an email from the team at HOME inviting us to be creative, and to help make a challenging, uncertain time an opportunity to work with people we love, to collaborate, to stay human, it was really moving - and just what we all needed. We can’t wait to share what we come up with!”

The commissions are paid for by part of HOME’s Response Fund, set up in the wake of the announcement that theatres across the country would close due to the coronavirus, and designed to protect HOME’s financial stability and allow them to support artists and colleagues from across the industry.  

The incredible reaction to the Response Fund has allowed Homemakers to be announced less than a week after HOME confirmed it would have to temporarily close its doors to the public.

Jude Christian added: “We are working with a ‘pay-what-you-decide’ model because we want to acknowledge the value of our artists’ work and give audiences a chance to support them by paying what they might expect to pay in a live venue. However, we don’t want to create any barriers to access and therefore this model provides everyone with the opportunity to engage with all of our work for free.”

The aim is for the first work to be available in early April, and more information will be shared as plans develop.