This week’s Culture Radar guest is Creative Coordinator ofThe Windows Project, Dave Ward.
Loved: Toria Woofe at the Nordic Church. She is a UK Americana singer/songwriter, she was amazing… the venue is just as incredible; they do monthly music events as means of local fundraising ranging from folk, to classical and jazz. What a warm and welcoming experience.
Looking Forward To: I’m looking forward to the forthcoming classical music season at Liverpool, Philharmonic. I have very eclectic taste, but classical music is a passion of mine; my dad was a music teacher, so it is in my blood!
Trivia: I also write folkloric fiction under the name David Greygoose (my great grandmother’s name) and have provided lyrics for the forthcoming album Smoke Road by Crystal Jacqueline. In my spare time I grow cooking apples, stew cooking apples and eat cooking apples … amongst other things!
Liverpool’s waterfront will once again be transformed into a spectacular outdoor art gallery this autumn, as River of Light returns with a brand-new theme: The Science of Light.
Running from Friday 24 October to Sunday 2 November, the much-loved, free festival will showcase ten large-scale artworks, each inspired by science, technology, or the natural world. Now in its 8th edition, River of Light continues to draw hundreds of thousands of visitors, combining cutting-edge creativity with world-class locations.
This year, organisers have worked closely with Liverpool’s thriving science and innovation community to create an inspiring 3km trail stretching across the Royal Albert Dock, Pier Head, Exchange Flags and Liverpool ONE.
River of Light 2025 Installations
Blueprint by Studio Vertigo
Blueprint is a large-scale immersive artwork inspired by the form of a double helix, the physical structure of DNA. It is a parametric design, 20m long and 5.5m high, comprising of 180 x 360º tube LEDs that follow an outer spiral and are brought together at a fixed central point with sweeping curves. This is highlighted with a sequence of high-resolution lighting effects, representing the four bases of DNA slowly flowing through the artwork.
The edges are also highlighted with a dynamic lighting program to show the DNA backbone. The sculpture appears to be in a state of constant transformation, its free-flow of curves are set within a functional and orderly working of lines. DNA is often called the blueprint of life because it contains the instructions for development, growth and survival. life.
Location: Strand, in front of Salthouse Dock – Opposite Canning Place. L3 4AN
Cycle by Serge Maheu
Cycle is an urban star, shining bright. Created by Serge Maheu, Cycle is an interactive installation inspired by the revolutions of the sun and the moon, that illuminates open spaces.
Composed of a series of modules equipped with several light animation sequences, Cycle delights with its variations in intensity and colour. Diffusing brightness from its core, it evokes the halo effect of an eclipse. In a maestria of light and sound, Cycle comes to life at the rhythm of bystanders’ interactions. By moving to the beat of the ambient music, the young and the young at heart transmit their energy to Cycle, transforming it into a larger-than-life musical sequencer.
Location: The Strand, Liverpool, L1 8LT (Outside Cunard Building)
Dandelion by Amigo & Amigo
Close your eyes, make a wish, and behold, Dandelion comes to life! Inspired by the wind-blown petals of the dandelion — a plant as symbolic as it is scientifically fascinating — this installation reimagines a delicate natural form through engineering, optics, and motion. Revered for its medicinal properties and aerodynamic seed dispersal, the dandelion becomes a living sculpture that blends biology with technology.
Every five minutes, Dandelion transforms into a dynamic spectacle, combining programmed LED light animations with immersive sound design to mimic the fluid dynamics of wind and the natural rhythm of seed release. The work not only celebrates the aesthetic beauty of the plant but also explores the principles behind its structure, movement, and resilience. By bridging natural science with sensory experience, Dandelion invites audiences into a realm where curiosity meets wonder — where light becomes a language for discovery, and art becomes an expression of the unseen forces that shape our world.
Location: Mann Island – in front of Museum of Liverpool (L3 1DG)
Embrace by Beamhacker
Experience the science of connection with Beamhacker’s interactive light and sound installation Embrace. First commissioned for Vivid Sydney 2024, Embrace is a circle of 15 life-sized illuminated silhouettes inspired by the nostalgic human paper chain. When people join hands between the figures, their bodies complete an electrical circuit, allowing a flow of energy that triggers ripples of light and sound.
This simple act of touch – proven to release oxytocin, lower stress, and strengthen bonds – becomes a living demonstration of bioelectricity and the transfer of energy between people. Each connection transforms the installation, with light patterns refracting and harmonies layering in response, making the science of interaction visible and audible.
As more people collaborate, the colours grow richer, the movements more dynamic, and the soundscape more intricate. When the full circle is joined, Embrace reaches a spectacular crescendo, symbolising the synergy of human connection, the flow of energy, and the beauty of achieving a shared goal.
Location: Exchange Flags, L2 3PF
FACE VALUE by Emma Brass and Venya Krutikov
“Face Value” is an immersive experience where audience members unexpectedly become part of a fantasy gameshow, as an AI-powered robotic artist selects and transforms their images in real time. The experience highlights themes of technology and control, prompting participants to wonder what ultimately happens to their digital selves.
The installation combines novel technologies, including artificial intelligence and robotics, to create a constantly evolving spectacle. A CCTV-style network of cameras captures images of the crowd, from which pictures of current audience members are selected at random. This ensures that every cycle of the installation is entirely unique.
Location: Mann Island Atrium, L3 1BP
Neuron by Juan Fuentes Studio
Neuron draws inspiration from the fascinating world of neurons and brain connectivity. The light installation “Neuron” simulates neural networks, bridging art and science by visually representing the functioning of the human brain and the connections that enable us to learn and perceive the world.
The piece reflects how neurons transmit information through electrical impulses, which are fundamental to human communication and creativity. At the same time, “Neuron” evokes the functioning of real neurons in solving complex problems. The installation transforms a fundamental scientific concept into a sensory experience, connecting audiences to the wonder of science through light.
Location: The Strand outside Royal Liver Building, George’s Dock Gates, L2 0RG
Optik by The Urban Conga
An interactive installation by The Urban Conga, Optik reflects on our ability to play with our surroundings while giving the opportunity for brand new point of views on our daily environment. The essence of Optik lies in the captivating phenomena of reflection and refraction, where light and sound becomes a medium of discovery and interaction, inviting users to manipulate it and playfully reimagine their world.
The ten 6 feet (1,8 meters) gyroscope-like forms with, at the centre, a dichroic film, offer new ever- changing opportunities that reflect any ray of lights during the day while refracting the inner rings lighting at dusk. As the audience rotates each unit, they create their own endless cascade of colors. The experience is raised to another level as sound joins us on the rhythmical effort, turning each unit into a different musical instrument.
Location: Thomas Steers Way, Liverpool ONE, L1 8LW.
SPICA by Juan Fuentes Studio
A star of lights that shines with the energy of the universe. This luminous installation, with moving LEDs, not only dazzles visually but also brings to life a fascinating scientific concept: why do stars shine? The answer lies in Einstein’s equation E=mc², which explains how nuclear fusion at the core of the Sun and other stars converts mass into an explosion of energy and light.
As a tribute to Einstein’s groundbreaking work and his most famous theory—the theory of relativity—this star transforms science into art, representing the constant flow of energy that lights up our universe. The installation connects spectators to the wonder of space, reminding us that, at the end of the day, we are all made of stardust.
Location: Outside Dr Martin Luther King Jr Building (Hartley Quay, Salthouse Quay, Royal Albert Dock, L3 4AX)
Pendulum by Amigo & Amigo
Pendulum is a giant interactive artwork that blends science, art, and play into an immersive experience. Inspired by the simple beauty of a gravity pendulum, this illuminated installation brings motion to life through dynamic waves of light and sound. Suspended above the audience, a glowing geometric structure appears to sway back and forth, mimicking the rhythm of a pendulum.
On either side, interactive light spheres invite people to engage – when pushed, they activate the artwork, sending energy across the space. The light animations follow the pendulum’s natural movement, creating the illusion of continuous motion, as if the entire structure is swinging through the air. By transforming the forces of gravity into shifting patterns of light and sound, Pendulum turns a fundamental scientific principle into a mesmerising, playful, and immersive experience.
Location: Pier Head – North (L3 1BY)
Within Water by Yellow Studio
Within Water is a site-specific installation inspired by the natural phenomenon of bioluminescence in marine life. Located within Liverpool’s Pier Head canal link, the piece explores the dynamic relationship between water, light, and human interaction. Through a grid of programmable lights embedded beneath the water’s surface, the installation mimics the gentle glow and movement of bioluminescent algae, creating an illuminated current that shifts in colour and intensity.
The central sculptural element, a human hand, serves as a symbolic trigger, sparking a physical disturbance that activates the bioluminescent light in response to human touch, emphasising connection and interaction between people and their environment. Within Water invites viewers to experience the vibrance, layers, and fluidity of light as it dances through water, blending natural phenomena with innovative technology. The installation celebrates water’s role as a driving force in Liverpool’s identity while engaging themes of transformation and community.
Location: Pier Head, Liverpool, Merseyside, L3 1HT (South End Canal Basin)
The full line-up, locations, opening times, and FAQs can be found via the Visit Liverpool website, with updates shared via @visitliverpool (X, Facebook, TikTok) and @visitliverpool_ (Instagram).
BlackFest is grassroots, homegrown, award-winning Black arts organisation based in Liverpool City Region. They showcase music, theatre, film, visual arts, spoken word, and poetry across both community and mainstream venues. Their aim is to bridge the gap between institutions and the marginalised communities they represent.
Their annual festival was created to amplify and celebrate Black artistic expression, the theme for BlackFest 2025 is Masculinity and Masculine energy, exploring and celebrating the diverse aspects of masculinity.
Here’s a selection of highlights from this year’s line-up:
Diversity Dialogues with Malik Al Nasir – Sefton Park Palm House (23 September)
Come together for an inspiring Diversity Dialogues session with author, educator, artist, activist Malik Al Nasir hosted by Dr Rebecca Loy as he shares reflections on identity and heritage his second published book, Searching for my Slave Roots.
Malik Al Nasir was born in Liverpool to mixed parentage, with a white mother and a black father. Bemused by memories of racist shouts for him to ‘go back to where you came from’ he began to look into his ancestry. His resulting book charts the twists and turns of his journey into the past and explores an untold chapter in both Black and British history.
With uplifting performances featuring Hayli Kincade and Wavertree Community Choir.
Remée – The Tung Auditorium (24 September)
Part of the Yoko Ono Lennon Lunchtime Concert Series, join BlackFest in partnership with The Tung Auditorium in celebrating local Liverpool artist Remée.
Remée is an alternative artist who draws inspiration from a wide range of artists and genres with immersive lyrical storytelling and stunning visuals. She is also known for her love of steampunk fashion and Victorian-era aesthetics, which she incorporates into her music. The local singer/songwriter blends electronics with heavy bass in a captivating show.
Rhythms Night – District (25 September)
A dynamic showcase blending rock-punk with soulful singer-songwriters, Rhythms Night features headliner Third Kulture alongside KingFast, Mina and Rafaela. Third Kulture’s unique sound draws from all corners of their diverse cultural influence, blending mesmerising R&B vocals, electrifying guitar riffs, and the cutting-edge influences of grime and modern rap with flavours of UK rave music, dancehall and trip-hop.
Formed in Manchester, the dynamic trio are loud and unapologetically themselves, embodying the essence of diversity, innovation, and cultural fusion.
Spoken Word Poetry Night – The Capstone Theatre (3 October)
Head along and enjoy poets and wordsmiths bringing their views and experiences to life, featuring Dionne Simpson, Sabiya and Janoma Omena. The experimental Spoken Word Poetry Night has always been such a well-loved segment of the festival from audiences and artists alike.
BlackFest have shortlisted the talented and passionate artists to develop their work over a series of professionally facilitated workshops and rehearsals. The comedy veers from breaking intergenerational curses to dark and witty humour, covering themes of abuse, race, culture and identity.
Curtis Watt is an established local Liverpool multidisciplinary artist. His practice is in sketch, mixed media and surrealist dream translations in pencil, pastels and ink. His work has also included rap, music production, theatre development and performance coaching.
The Visual Arts Workshop explores creative writing, storytelling, poetry and spoken word, followed by sketching your own creative response.
Celebrating 150 Years Coleridge Taylor Day – The Capstone Theatre / Hope Creative Campus (11 October)
2025 is the 150th anniversary of the birth of Black British composer Samuel Coleridge-Taylor. Tayo Aluko & Friends CIC in partnership with BlackFest and Liverpool Hope University are holding a Celebrating Samuel Coleridge-Taylor Day at Hope University’s creative campus.
The day will include some of Coleridge-Taylor’s works featuring singers and instrumentalists singing and playing the composer’s music. , and Tayo Aluko’s play, Coleridge-Taylor of Freetown at The Captone Theatre.
BlackFest October Scratch Night Take Over – Shakespeare North Playhouse (14 October)
Join the BlackFest October Scratch Night Take Over as artists Shak, Chelsey, Resila and BluBoy bring exciting experimental new works using their disciplines and theatre to bring their stories to life.
Some of the artists use their writing and directing skills, some their own performance and poetry skills and some a combination of singing performing and writing. They are also creating open mic slots for after the artists have performed, you can sign up before the event at andi.herring@blackfest.co.uk.
The Alternative Black Cabaret Comedy Showcase – Liverpool Royal Court Studios (25 October)
The Alternative Black Cabaret Comedy Showcase is hosted by Che Burnley, hailing from Oldham and an honorary Scouser. In the last few years Che has established his own showcase show in Edinburgh and Liverpool, provided tour support for Reginald D Hunter, written his own solo shows and still found time to gig across the country. Join the festival comedy showcase for Che and some excellent supporting acts from Liverpool and beyond.
For more details and to buy tickets, visit their website www.blackfest.co.uk
To discover even more events across the Liverpool city region check out our What’s On Listings.
In this guest feature, Moon Rice shares how they accidentally discovered a passion for clowning, exploring Liverpool’s arts scene and finding support through workshops, performances, and organisations that are a part of The Culture Network LCR.
There were no banana skins but I fell into clowning by mistake.
In late 2024, I signed up for a two-day workshop at Unity Theatre with Lucy Hopkins (I’d never heard of her), hoping it would help me sharpen my funnybones. I was performing routines with PowerPoint in the style of Dave Gorman and wanted to take it to the next level. What hadn’t dawned on me – until we started dancing around – was that I’d actually signed up for a clowning workshop.
Two days later, I walked out feeling like I’d just found my calling.
It wasn’t the path I imagined when I graduated in 2020 with a First in Fine Art. I thought my career as an artist would naturally blossom after that. Instead, I’ve stumbled into something unexpected – and I’m slowly, happily, becoming a clown.
More than anything I want to clown but what opportunities are there to develop? I could maybe hope to be accepted into a drama school (there is quite a famous one in Liverpool!) but I already owe £50,000 to the government and who would accept me anyway with my lack of ability? I had no idea how tough it would be to find opportunities to clown.
However, many of the workshops, performances, and connections that have shaped my clowning journey so far have been made possible by organisations that are part of The Culture Network LCR: a membership group of 70+ arts and culture organisations across the Liverpool City Region. While I’ve never worked directly with the Network itself, it’s through the shared values and generous programming of its members – like Unity Theatre, Collective Encounters, Metal, and Tmesis Theatre – that I’ve been able to explore this new path.
Their commitment to accessibility, artist development, and creative community is more than just talk. I’m living proof that it makes a difference.
First there was the workshop Simone Tani did at the Unity in Clowning and Bouffon. This lead to further classes with Simone at The Bluecoat. Simone is a very generous man, exemplified by offering his classes for only £5 and advice for free. It is my sincere hope that Simone will start his classes up again really soon.
Moon doing an impression of a washing machine
Meanwhile, I’ve taken workshops where and when I can. Most of these have been at the Unity. In fact, I’m at the Unity so often, I feel at home there and the staff even know my name. Particular kudos goes to Artistic Director, Eli Randle, who has been really supportive. At times it’s felt she’s put the Unity schedule together just for me! Some of the workshops at the Unity have also lead to further opportunities such as the Big Bucket Clowning Retreat at Bidston Observatory Artistic Research Centre.
I also attend the Women In Action sessions by Collective Encounters on a Tuesday afternoon at the Unity. These are lead by renowned fool Joanne Tremarco who has been a champion for me, gently encouraging me to develop my career. I was also fortunate to see her show at the Unity. Where she gets her energy from I’ll never know.
As much as I love the Unity, not everything happens there. I’ve also attended a two day workshop with Madame Señorita via Tmesis Theatre, and full day workshops with Wise Children at The Everyman and Leebo Luby at Shakespeare North Playhouse.
Leebo is another clown who I’ve been keen to learn from. The clown jams he hosted were an opportunity to practice what I know (which, admittedly, isn’t much) in a no pressure, fun, environment.
I also love attending the Contact Improvisation (CI) classes with Mary Pearson at 24 Hope Street. I met Mary during rehearsals for the Merseyside Kings at Metal.
Performing as a drag king is something else I fell into, having met Cal Lannerty at a writing workshop at, you guessed it, the Unity. Cal happened to mention they were a drag king and, this being a secret ambition of mine, my ears pricked up and I asked them how I could get involved.
Both Cal and Mary are lovely, encouraging, people. I am fortunate to know them and the other kings and feel supported through these challenging times for trans people like me – having our human rights denied for the mere temerity of existing.
I am thankful then for all the shows I’m able to see that lift me from despair. Of course, watching the shows also helps with my education, developing my taste: what things I’d like to try or not.
Moon as drag king, Derek Vine
In Liverpool, we are spoilt for choice for theatre. Since I took the workshop with Lucy Hopkins, I’ve seen shows by DaDaFest, RAWD, Liverpool Arab Arts Festival (LAAF), and Tmesis Theatre, amongst many others.
As well as all the ones I’ve seen at the Unity, I’ve also seen Stewart Lee and Milton Jones at the Philharmonic, the Rock n Roll Panto at the Everyman, and Hamilton at the Empire. Yes, it has depleted my bank account but I’m of the opinion there’s nothing better to spend my money on than improving my mental health.
Speaking of which, sadly, I’ve been feeling inadequate of late, not knowing quite how to develop my clowning abilities. You see, the last couple of workshops I’ve been at, I’ve felt disconnected somehow. For sure, my autism doesn’t help with this – I fell into clowning through a misunderstanding and I still misunderstand plenty.
It also doesn’t help that, for a place renowned for it’s humour, Liverpool has such a sparse clown scene – lagging well behind the clown scenes in Bristol and London. However, the people I have encountered in it’s theatres are generous, supportive, and encouraging.
Writing this has also reminded me of the wealth of education I’ve been fortunate to find via The Culture Network and it’s still not quite a full year since I started clowning. So I am hopeful of becoming the clown I feel called to be. I just need those opportunities to progress. So, if you feel you could help, I’d be delighted to hear from you. Please message me via my Substack.
Author Bio: Moon is a neurodiverse enby crip performer, writer, and artist originating from Cornwall. For the last decade, they have found home on the Wirral with their cat (a proper Scouser) and a whole load of mess.
This week’s Culture Radar guest is Marketing intern forThe Tung Auditorium,Ajani Healy.
Loved: I love the grass roots jazz scene in Liverpool, and recently Hope Street Jazz hosted Jazz Fest, six days of free live jazz music, at Fredericks on Hope Street. I checked out a couple nights, but my favourite was definitely Finite Experience. Their set was very dynamic and inviting, and there was a lot of good energy on display. I also checked out the Liverpool Biennial exhibit at FACT Liverpool which was an interesting experience.
Looking Forward To: I’m really looking forward to the upcoming Yoko Ono Lennon Lunchtime concerts at The Tung Auditorium. There’s a wide variety of acts, many of which I hadn’t heard about before, so I’m excited to discover some new music. The shows take place on Wednesdays at 1pm, and they’re free so I encourage everyone to attend if they can.
Trivia: I’ve only just joined the team at The Tung Auditorium, so I’m learning all of the fun facts little by little. My favourite so far is that the riser steps in the auditorium, when manufactured were laser etched on the back, one with a giant bourbon biscuit and the other with many small bourbon biscuits. It’s a bit hard to see if you don’t know to look for it.
It’s finally September, and jumpers and jackets are making their way out of the attic boxes and into our wardrobes once again. While the rest of the world starts to get into the autumnal spirit, if you’re still clinging to the last few rays of summer, then Liverpool’s music scene has got you covered. Whether you’re looking for jazz nights to savour those last few longer evenings, or you’re looking for some classical shows to cool off after the hot weather, we’ve put together 10 concerts in Liverpool and the city region that you need to check out this autumn.
1. The Music of Hans Zimmer vs John Williams – Liverpool Empire (21 September)
Hans Zimmer and John Williams’ film scores are renowned as some of the best in the world. Everyone remembers the first time they heard the intro to Harry Potter or the iconic Jurassic Park theme, and this autumn the Empire brings those scores to life on stage with Hans Zimmer vs John Williams!
Join the Manchester Concert Orchestra, conducted by Michael Bawtree, as they journey through space, Gotham City, the Caribbean, and everywhere in between! Goosebumps are a guarantee with this one…
2. Lunchtime Concert Series ft. Remée – The Tung Auditorium (24 September)
BlackFest have partnered with The Tung Auditorium as part of the Yoko Ono Lennon Lunchtime Concert Series to bring you a fantastic concert featuring alternative artist Remée. With a sound that is “offbeat with a sprinkle of electronic and heavy bass”, Remée is a local singer/songwriter who has been writing her own songs from a young age, inviting audiences into her lyrical storytelling and captivating visuals.
The Tung’s Lunchtime Concert Series has been a staple of the Tung’s programme for quite a while, opening the concert hall for everyone to enjoy their concerts free of charge every Wednesday afternoon. This special edition in collaboration with BlackFest is surely not one to miss.
3.Helicon – Future Yard (25 September)
If you fancy something a bit more on the psychedelic side, then Helicon at Future Yard have got you covered. Helicon blend neo-psych-rock with sitars, electronica, ambient soundscapes and irresistible grooves, taking audiences back to psych-rock’s heyday in the 60s. Quoted as being “a force to be reckoned with” and showing that “musical borders are there to be broken”, Helicon are a staple within the psychedelic rock scene and are certainly one to watch now and in the future.
4. Rhythms Night @ District – District (25 September)
Bringing together iconic music artists like Third Kulture, KingFast, Mina and Rafaela, join BlackFest for their Rhythms Night @ District, celebrating their 7th year! This eclectic mix of artists spans generations, genres and styles to bring you a night of culture, heritage and fantastic rhythms. You’ll be moved by Mina’s confessional songwriting, inspired by KingFast’s energy and geniality, rocked by Third Kulture’s punchy celebrations of diversity, and soothed by Rafaela’s fusion of soul, reggae and jazz. With so much talent on show, there’s something for everyone!
5. La Feria Festival: Antonio Monasterio Ensamble – Music Room (2 October)
LUMA returns to the Liverpool Philharmonic’s Music Room this October with the third installment of La Feria Festival, celebrating both LUMA’s 50th anniversary and the Music Room’s 10th anniversary. Hailing from the port of Valparaíso, Chile, the Antonio Monasterio Ensamble is renowned for its bold, genre-defying approach to world music and jazz. Audiences will be treated to an evening of immersive soundscapes that blend intricate rhythms, expressive timbres and global music traditions. It is sure to be a celebration of cultural diversity and the growing connection between Valparaíso and Liverpool.
6. Secret Jazz Club – The Sound of Autumn – Everyman Theatre (10 October)
Who doesn’t love a bit of jazz to welcome in the start of a new season? The Everyman bring us an intimate Secret Jazz Club evening of live jazz and warm ambience this October in their basement bar, a fantastic venue that fully immerses you in the music. You don’t have to be a jazz aficionado to savour this unique night out, everyone is welcome and the Everyman is sure to provide an event that will leave you tapping your feet and craving more.
Be warned – The Secret Jazz Club is password-protected, so make sure you book your place to get into this exclusive event!
7. Xander and The Peace Pirates – Future Yard (10 October)
Xander and The Peace Pirates are finally back at Future Yard for a long-awaited full band show on the 10th October. Keith Xander and his band are nothing short of extraordinary, blending blues-rock, jaw-dropping musicianship, and deeply authentic performances. From the Cavern Club and sharing stages with the likes of Bon Jovi, Xander will bring this blues extravaganza to Future Yard, sharing his journey of inspiration and passion and blowing your socks off with a performance that will stick with you for months.
8. Flute J.A. Jayant and Debasmita Bhattacharya – Liverpool Philharmonic Music Room (17 October)
As part of this year’s Indika Festival, this concert brings together four exceptional musicians in a unique combination of instruments – the Carnatic bamboo flute, Hindustani sarod, tabla, and mridangam. Celebrating the best of Indian classical music, the Music Room will play host to Flute J.A. Jayanth, Debasmita Bhattacharya, Kousic Sen and Bangalore Prakash as they engage in an immersive, rhythmically rich concert.
9. The Australian Pink Floyd – Liverpool Empire (26 October)
The Australian Pink Floyd have been touring the globe since 1988, and this year they bring their show to Liverpool at the Empire Theatre. They are the leading and biggest show in the tribute scene, described by The Times Newspaper as “The Gold Standard”, and have gained such renown that they were even invited to perform at David Gilmour’s 50th birthday celebration! Join the Australian Pink Floyd show as they celebrate their 30th anniversary with their new tour ‘All That Love’, featuring classics from Dark Side Of The Moon, Wish You Were Here and many more.
10.Mobius Loop – Future Yard (9 November)
Credit: John Middleham
Mobius Loop bring their “Peaceful World Tour” to Future Yard this November, filling the space with their mesmerising festival vibrations to celebrate their brand new single. The trio, celebrated as “Preston’s most successful band”, create gloriously eccentric folk stories, fusing world music and conscious rap with eruptions of free-form dance charged with an intimately powerful and intense energetic live performance. If you want to dance the night away with some epic beats and vibrant voices, woven together in a call for a peaceful world then Future Yard is the place to be!
To discover even more live music across the Liverpool city region check out our What’s On Listings.
The British Science Festival 2025, the 194th annual celebration of science, runs in Liverpool from 10-14 September at various venues across the city.
From comedy shows to art installations, dynamic performances to hands-on workshops, insightful talks to interactive experiences, the British Science Festival programme of over 100 events is free and has something for everyone.
Talks by influencer and Bionic Arm ambassador Tilly Lockey, leading geneticist Giles Yeo, and Time Team genealogist Sophie Kay; artwork made from thousands of human teeth; and a carnival style dance performance on the theme of migratory birds are just some of the highlights of this year’s festival.
Here’s a selection of highlights from the 2025 festival.
Liverpool In Space – LJMU Redmonds Building (11 September)
Drop in and discover the out-of-this-world science that’s happening across the city with Liverpool in space. Meet space scientists from the University of Liverpool and Liverpool John Moores University to delve into fascinating subjects including microgravity, astrophysics and planetary defence. This is your chance to find out about the technologies that are deepening our understanding of the universe and changing our life on Earth.
Game On, Snack More – The Tung Auditorium (11 September)
Is digital gaming affecting what you eat? Join Game On, Snack More to find out. Brands are everywhere on videogame livestreaming platforms, most often targeting young people with ads for food high in fat, sugar and salt. Rebecca Evans (University of Liverpool) will show how this marketing affects eating habits, calling for more research to help shape public health policy.
Truth In The Age of AI – FACT (12 September)
How do we perceive Truth and authenticity in the age of AI? From viral deep fakes to AI-altered videos designed to manipulate public opinion, digital authenticity is increasingly uncertain. Join multimedia artist Rachel Maclean and FACT’s Director Nicola Triscott as they discuss how artists are opening up new perspectives on the risks and opportunities that AI poses to our perception of what is true and what is fabricated.
MOONFACE – Unity Theatre (12 September)
Shady billionaires make plans to colonise and mine the solar system, and our nearest celestial neighbour has something to say about it. A clowning show performed by Meg Hodgson with live sound from Livvy Lynch, MOONFACE is a funny and exuberant love letter to our rocky satellite that explores what it means to be human. Expect burlesque and drag-style numbers, testimony from survivors of human-made disasters, and movement inspired by the gravitational interactions between Earth and moon.
The Future of Rail – All Aboard for Tomorrow! Metal Liverpool (13 September)
What will train travel look like 200 years from now? Who will run the railways? What will we eat onboard? How fast will we go and how can we travel greener and cleaner? Join Metal Liverpool for The Future of Rail – All Aboard for Tomorrow! a fun, hands-on creative workshop where you’ll imagine the future of rail travel.
Working with St. Helens based artist Claire Weetman they will explore big questions through drawing, design, and storytelling. Whether you’re a train lover, a daydreamer, or simply curious — all are welcome. No experience needed, just bring your imagination!
Searching for inspiration for your next piece of writing? Want to explore ideas about science from the past? Take part in Archive adventures: Creative writing workshop, that will reveal how scientific archives could inspire your work. Gain the confidence and skills you need to jump right in! Writer Clodagh Chapman will talk about how scientific archives can be places of unexpected discovery, for writers and scientists alike.
Food, Glorious Food – Museum of Liverpool Lecture Theatre (14 September)
What can the humble potato teach us about food cultures and communities? Many staples of the British diet originate from Latin America, from potatoes, corn and tomatoes to chocolate and strawberries. Join a team of foodies for Food, Glorious Food – including scientists, archaeologists, chefs, musicians and curators – for tastings, conversations and demonstrations that delve into the origins and importance of these delicious crops.
During this lively session, led by Luma Creations in collaboration with the World Museum, they’ll discuss how these foods have been integrated into our diets and what they mean to people, both now and in the past.
Art Forgery To Astrophysics: A Data Science Showcase – Museum of Liverpool (14 September)
Curious about how computers solve problems? Want to know how algorithms work? Keen to talk about the impact of AI? Drop in for a chat with Art forgery to astrophysics: A data science showcase with researchers from the University of Liverpool and Liverpool John Moores University and find out about their research across data science. They’ll explain how data science is used for a multitude of things, from identifying art forgeries all the way to astrophysics.
This is also a chance to explore the fundamentals of sorting algorithms, which are essential for designing computer programmes. Discover how sorting data plays a key role in computation.
Discover the entire programme of events for the British Science Festival and book your free tickets at britishsciencefestival.org.
For even more things to do in Liverpool and the city region check out our What’s On Listings.
This week’s Culture Radar guest is Ashley Colley, Marketing Account Manager, ACC Liverpool.
Loved: Dua Lipa at Anfield, hands down. There was endless dancing, and such a vibrant atmosphere around the stadium. The best tunes, she just killed it. 10/10 pop star – I’m such a fan! I’m frantically typing this because I enjoyed it THAT MUCH.
Looking Forward To:Inhaler at M&S Bank Arena on 11 October. They’re a Rock band from Dublin, and Liverpool is like a second home to them having practiced here for many years. To see them now about to headline at M&S Bank Arena is unreal. Also looking forward to the supports on this show, and the reunion of The Bandits!! Not a lot of people know but they’re an iconic Liverpool band from early 00’s who helped launch bands such as The Coral and The Zutons. I think that’ll be a great gig at the Arena, cannot wait!
Trivia: I used to be in a punk / metal band and toured UK / Europe for about 4 years. Career highlight was playing Glastonbury Festival, personal highlight was playing Download Festival; I’m a total metal head (who cannot handle a mosh pit anymore). A more recent and un-interesting fact about me is that I’m also totally on board with the Country Craze (unashamedly) and I cannot stop listening to any & all Country Music. So, if anyone has any good recommendations, please send Spotify links my way!
This week’s Culture Radar guest is Engagement Manager forWonder Arts, Danny Woods.
Loved: Loved the immersive installation, ‘Put Your Feet in my Shows’ created by Michelle Wren & Kazem Ashourzadeh; very powerful and certainly eye-opening.
Looking Forward To: I’m looking forward to getting about and taking in as much of the Liverpool Biennial as possible before it ends on 14th September and I always look forward to the return of the River of Light, perfect way to spend an Autumn evening in Liverpool.
Trivia: I first became involved with Wonder Arts (previously Citadel Arts Centre) when I joined the Youth Theatre when I was 16 years old and later became a volunteer until becoming Marketing Officer in 2015. Now as the Engagement Manager, this year marks 24 years of being involved with the organisation and a whole decade as a member of staff.
The latest instalment of Buried Treasure by John Maguire of ArtsGroupie CIC takes us to Birkenhead’s Rathbone Studio, rooted in the legacy of Della Robbia Pottery. Here, artist Janet Holmes continues the tradition of creativity and individuality, currently celebrated in Diversity in Clay, her collaborative exhibition with Louise Waller for the Independents Biennial.
There is something grand about walking through Hamilton Square – it feels like being transported to Edinburgh. I can envision Victorian-suited gentlemen strolling with canes through the greenery at the centre, ready to take the morning commuter ferry, ambling around the boat and enjoying the fresh air as part of their morning constitution.
I emerge from the depths of the train station and catch a glimpse of the city of Liverpool, panoramic across the river in the shadows. If I can block out the memory stick buildings that dig into the ground, the view retains its charm.
Della Robbia was a highly distinctive pottery created in Price Street and at 28 Argyle Street, Birkenhead, between 1894 and 1906. It drew inspiration from the work of Luca della Robbia, a Florentine sculptor (1399–1482) known for perfecting a special pottery glaze. The pottery employed many people in Birkenhead, including local women who decorated the wares. There were no pattern books; artists and decorators were encouraged to explore their creativity and work completely freehand. Today, antique Della Robbia pottery is highly sought after, with examples displayed in Wirral at the Williamson Art Gallery & Museum.
Janet Holmes has been exhibiting on Wirral for over 40 years and opened the Rathbone Studio in Birkenhead in 2012. It now serves as a pottery studio and gallery, embracing the ethos of the Della Robbia Pottery, which aimed to bring individuality to each piece, allowing artists to express themselves with unique, original ceramic work. Janet has revived the Della Robbia spirit in Birkenhead through her work and by encouraging others to exhibit their talents.
Currently, an exhibition is on display as part of the Independents Biennial, which is a treasure trove of ceramic art. Diversity In Clay, a collaboration with renowned ceramicist Louise Waller, celebrates the malleable essence of clay. A rich collection of earthy works showcases the collaboration between artist and medium with the mantra, “The clay dictates.”
Janet Holmes and Her Artistic Journey
Janet’s obsession with clay dates back to her childhood. The first piece she ever made in school was a bust of a man’s head, leading her to realise she could create a strong image from nothing. Today, teaching allows her to foster this idea in others, and she loves to explore different clays and experiences, encountering new things that still humble her. Rather than planning, Janet lets the mood and atmosphere evolve through meditation with the clay. A clay sculpture created after her mother’s passing evoked mixed emotions, while her Covid tension piece has an agitated and restless look about it. This ceramic is my particular favourite.
Her influences include Matisse, Picasso, and Grayson Perry. Due to her tinnitus, classical music, especially Gershwin, becomes the only sound in the studio, which helps her to connect with the clay.
My favourite piece
Before I leave, I visit the toilet in the cellar; every available space is crammed with art as I make my way down the staircase. I am captivated by a mushroom cloud sculpture, inspired by the OMD song Enola Gay.
I encourage you to visit this rich vault of ceramic treasures, a very magical emporium of creativity.
The gallery holds a student exhibition from January to February each year, with exhibitions changing quarterly. Local artists can also showcase their work.
Diversity in Clay Louise Waller & Janet Holmes Runs until 13th September
The exhibition will then be open Tuesday to Saturday, 1.30pm-5pm.
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