Sunday, 19th of March marks Mother’s Day, 2023. For those of us lucky to have our mothers around us, why not treat them to something a bit different this year? Here at Uncover Liverpool, we have compiled five activities that will really show your mum how much you love her.
1. Bisque It – Pottery Painting & Plant-Based Cafe
Bisque It offers a great way to spend time with your mum, while enjoying some relaxing pottery painting alongside food and drinks. Bisque It has two venues, one in Oxton and one in the Baltic Triangle. The Baltic Triangle venue is closed on Sundays, however you can pick up their Mother’s Day Mug Takeaway Kit so you and your mum can paint whenever and wherever you like!
2. Mam-And-Me-Ah! Mother’s Day Brunch
Camp and Furnace are hosting a Mothers’ Day ABBA tribute, including brunch, a live ABBA Tribute Show & 90 minutes of bottomless Prosecco, bottled beer & soft drinks. For all you Dancing queens out there, I’m sure that your mum will thank you for the music and food at this event.
3. Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea at the Mansion House, Calderstones Park
This special Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea at Mansion House kicks off with a glass of fizz (or non-alcoholic fizz) on arrival, alongside a selection of sandwiches and cakes from the award-winning Cuthbert’s Bakehouse (vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options available). Victoria Sharpe will be taking musical requests and, as home to The Reader organisation, there will also be a poem recital – plus every mum, or mother figure, is gifted a hand-picked poetry anthology to take home. The Reader also recognises that Mother’s Day can be difficult for some so they are also offering a free reading workshop on their free ways to Nurture and be Nurtured.
4. Songs in the Park – a Mother’s Day Special, Sefton Park Palm House
If you are looking for a free event, then look no further than Sefton Park Palm House. On the eve of the first day of spring join Liverpool Voice Choir and many others as they perform this Mother’s Day special concert. Enjoy the leafy environment away from the city’s usual hustle and bustle. The event starts at 2pm and, although free, donations are welcome.
5. Top Girls at the Everyman Theatre, Liverpool
Does your mum love a trip to the theatre? Then why not take her to see Top Girls, the play about female drive and determination in the 1980s, at the beloved Everyman Theatre. Fantastical and fiercely funny, Top Girls is acclaimed as one of British theatre’s crowning glories. As Caryl Churchill’s ground-breaking play turns 40, it is now more urgent and necessary than ever.
To find out what else is happening across Liverpool and the city region check out our What’s On listings.
There’s a fantastic range of things to do in Birkenhead. From the grand architecture of its Victorian landmarks to the serene expanses of its parks and gardens, here’s a closer look at the top things to do in Birkenhead. We’re uncovering the best attractions, activities, and hidden corners, including including innovative venues such as Future Yard and Make Hamilton Square, Additionally, there’s the excellent Williamson Gallery and Museum and the beautiful Birkenhead Park, plus much more.
Future Yard
1. Future Yard
Future Yard brings some of today’s most exciting new national and international artists to Wirral, whilst providing performance opportunities and training for emerging local musicians.
The venue is run on a non-profit basis and is committed to a goal of becoming the first carbon-neutral grassroots music venue in the North of England.
Future Yard CIC have also recently set up Future50, a scheme where organisations can pledge to support their Neighbourhood Fund. The scheme will fund free and subsidised training and events for local people.
Upcoming live shows include, Badly Drawn Boy, Steve Mason and legendary Liverpool band The Stairs.
Read more about Future Yard’s Propeller Programme, launching on November 13, 2024, offers free mentorship, business support, and workshops to music creators in the Liverpool City Region, empowering both early career and established artists to develop their projects and navigate the music industry with the help of funding from Wirral Council and PRS Foundation.
In 2019 Make CIC worked with Wirral Council to open a community creative hub in Birkenhead, Make Hamilton Square.
The vibrant urban growing space, services an in-house cafe with seasonal produce and honey from their busy bees. The space is also home to fifty businesses and makers, alongside an incredible programme of workshops and activities.
Make continues to support many creatives to run classes and start businesses. They provide space for people to affordably host shows and exhibitions, often for the first time.
Make Hamilton Square: 2 Cleveland Street, Birkenhead, CH41 6ND.
Their wide-ranging permanent collections include painting, sculpture, furniture, prints and decorative arts. They are also home to the largest public collection of Della Robbia pottery in the UK – Birkenhead’s contribution to the Arts & Crafts movement.
Meanwhile, their superb ship models celebrate the region’s fascinating maritime history. They also host a range of temporary exhibitions and events.
Williamson Art Gallery: Slatey Rd, Oxton, Birkenhead, Prenton, CH43 4UE.
4. RAWD
Ten years ago, a disabled theatre company was set up with a focus to enable, enhance and engage disabled artists across Wirral, through weekly sessions.
In their 10th year, RAWD has got a little bigger, with more members and a wider outreach. They continue to champion disabled artists and put them centre stage in theatres and festivals.
RAWD explore new and innovative ways to turn-up disabled voices in the arts as a whole; with fun and inclusivity at its heart.
Birkenhead Priory is a unique family outing – experience the history, wonder and beauty of this 850 year old site. As the oldest standing building on Merseyside, the Priory offers a unique insight into the town of Birkenhead, and its historical and spiritual importance in the North West.
Now surrounded by factory units and shipyards, the Priory is an oasis of calm in a busy world. Head along and explore the site with the whole family- there are things to do for the entire family to enjoy! Climb the 101 steps to the top of St Mary’s tower for spectacular views of the Mersey and local area.
You can even bring a picnic to enjoy in their grounds!
Birkenhead Park. Credit: Ryan Warburton via Unsplash
6. The Hive/Wirral Youth Zone
Wirral Youth Zone, named by young people as ‘The Hive’, is a purpose-built facility for young people aged 8 – 19, and up to 25 for those with disabilities.
Young people have access to fantastic facilities for a cost of £5 for an annual membership and 50p per visit. The facilities include a climbing wall, boxing gym, music suite, art room and sensory room.
The Youth Zone provides a safe environment where young people can come and enjoy themselves and enables them to raise their aspirations and confidence.
Back when Birkenhead was a pioneering industrial town it was the first place in Europe to adopt a street tramway. The trams ceased operating in 1937, but visitors can ride on original fully restored heritage trams, see their collection of preserved local buses and view their ongoing restoration projects in the museum.
They also have a huge working model railway, ideal for keeping the whole family entertained!
Wirral Transport Museum and Heritage Tramway: 1 Taylor Street, Birkenhead, CH41 1BG.
8. Convenience Gallery
Convenience Gallery is a community-centered arts organisation providing opportunities for local communities to engage, create and work in the arts. They take art out into public spaces and mental health settings, rather than traditional environments, working with local people.
The gallery are advocates for artists fair pay, mental health, wellbeing and inclusion. They are dedicated to championing the arts and artists.
They always aim to create high quality, diverse, educational and challenging programming.
9. There are plenty of things to do at Birkenhead Park!
On Easter Monday 1847, the gates were opened to the very first publicly funded park in the world. Designed by Joseph Paxton – Birkenhead Park was created to be the People’s Garden – a place where the lowliest peasant to the British Monarch could enjoy a piece of the countryside in the city.
In 1850, Fredrick Law Olmstead visited the park and with its inspiration, then went on to design and create what is arguably the most famous public park in the world – Central Park, New York.
In 2004 Birkenhead Park underwent an £11.8million restoration returning it to its former glory. Today, Birkenhead Park is a Grade I listed landscape, it caters for all visitors with a number of sports such as football, cricket, bowls, angling and cycling, as well as providing an onsite visitors centre.
Birkenhead Park: Park Drive, Birkenhead, CH41 4HY.
10. Bloom Building
Bloom is a great space to for all types of creative events. They have previously opened their doors to festivals, electronic nights, film screenings, book launches and immersive exhibitions.
They hold a range of monthly events at Bloom such as Open Mic nights, Life Drawing, Open Mic poetry nights and a weekly choir. Bloom also hold coffee mornings with Mencap and Positivitree weekly.
The venue is available to hire for community projects and private bookings.
The Birkenhead Youth Club started life as The Birkenhead Boys Club in 1932, the prime mover in its establishment being the late Harry France, a Senior Probation Officer, in the town.
The club is for anyone aged between 8 and 24. They have an extensive range of sports facilities, from an indoor 5-a-side pitch to squash courts and trampolining. Admission is just 50p per night.
The facilities are also available for hire at very reasonable rates.Opening times are 6-9pm, Monday to Friday.
Wirral MakeFest is a free community event that aims to cultivate the public’s engagement with makers, inspiring future careers, hobbies and skills in the community and raising the visibility of local makers through the event and its accompanying website.
The event takes place 3 June 2023 at both Birkenhead Central Library and Williamson Museum and Art Gallery.
MakeFest is a fusion between art, science and technology. Their makers are from a wide range of arts and sciences, from crafts and drama to VR.
Have we missed anything in this article? Let us know! Get in touch with Clare at clare@culture.org.uk. We strive to make our features as inclusive as possible, so we’re keen to hear your suggestions.
Last week, we sat down with the legendary Indian vocalist Bombay Jayashri to discuss her incredible career, and her upcoming visit to the UK. On the 24th March, the acclaimed Carnatic singer will perform in Liverpool for one night only. Marking her first performance in the UK in over 15 years, Jayashri last performed in the country back in 2008, at London’s Southbank Centre:
“It was such a fantastic event. I remember little details of that concert. The stage, the decor was in pink and yellow. I have such fond memories of a great audience and fantastic acoustics. We had a blast of a time.”
“Of course, prior to that, I’ve come to Milap for workshops with the beautiful students. They’re energetic students who are so eager to learn…”
With a career spanning over three incredible decades, Jayashri has broken barriers as a cultural ambassador of India’s rich heritage. Her artistry has encapsulated the meaning of ‘East meets West’; having performed extensively throughout the subcontinent and further abroad, the performer has the extremely rare privilege of being the first Carnatic classical vocalist to have graced the stage in some of the world’s finest Opera Houses.
“I think travel has taught me much more than any school or college that I have gone to, because it’s about people. It’s about relationships, how you communicate, how you’re inspired by that, their cultural identity. How you see your cultural identity through their lens, how they see yours, how I see theirs, so yes, travel is important, specifically in many, many countries in Europe, UK, Germany, France, Portugal, and Spain.”
Known for her distinctive vocal range and quality, her incredibly varied repertoire features songs from various Indian languages including Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam and Hindi. A frequent headliner at major Indian festivals, her finely honed voice exudes a hypnotism difficult to resist.
“Indian classical music is a very systematised way of singing. We have two forms. The Hindustani Indian classical music and the Carnatic Indian classical music, two very different forms. The Hindustani is practiced in the Northern states, Carnatic is practiced in the four, now five Southern states of India, they’re very different, in grammar, in architecture, in temperament, the way they flow, the phraseology, though they come from the same route, which is the seven notes. And that’s because of the different influences that South India has had, as opposed to the different influences North India has had in terms of who the people were that ruled the place, who are the people who patronised the music, what languages North Indians speak, how those languages then in turn affected, the presentation of the music and all of that. So they’re very different. But yet, to someone who’s outside India, they may still seem very similar.”
In 2012, Jayashri was nominated for an Oscar in the Best Original Song category for ‘Pi’s Lullaby,’ from the film Life of Pi, and in 2021, Jayashri was awarded a Padma Shri – India’s fourth highest civilian award.
Bombay Jayashri, alongside H.N. Bhaskar (violin), Sai Giridhar (mridangam) and Giridhar Udupa (ghatam) will perform at Liverpool’s The Tung Auditorium on Friday, 24th March 2023. Tickets are available to purchase at thetungauditorium.com/events/bombay-jayashri-in-concert
I believe that if someone takes components, whether they be thread and fabric, precious metal, wood or clay and by some process combines these to make something aesthetically appealing and on occasion useful, then they are an artist.
The term handmade as opposed to homemade has rightly gained more respect and popularity over the last few years. Appreciative customers are more aware of the time and love lavished upon such items in addition to the quality materials and skill involved. I am happy to see more venues for small local businesses popping up, across our city allowing our talented makers the opportunity to sell directly to a discerning public.
The Felt Factory
Since 2015 I have been organising Liverpool Makers Bazaar (LMB) a pop up market of all things handmade. I curate as wide a variety of crafts as possible to ensure that our events are interesting for our regular customers and hopefully lucrative for our stallholders. Past makers of jewellery for example have worked in silver, fabric, concrete, resin, polymer clay, beads, glass… you get the idea.
Down the years I have been frequently impressed with the imagination and creativity that people display in their work. For example, we are often joined by stallholders with beautiful mouth blown glass, several amazing painters selling originals and prints and candle makers to name but a few. You really don’t want me to list them all as they are not the same group at each event.
There is surely a craft for everyone and if you maintain that you are not artistic, perhaps that is because you have not yet discovered the right one for you. Or indeed maybe it is waiting for you to invent it.
LMB has swelled from the initial 24 stalls in the community centre at The Old Police Station on Lark Lane, to a healthy 45 stalls across the three rooms available in this quirky old building. As well as our artists, we host Mrs B’s Vintage Tea Room, a legend in everyone’s lunchtime, offering hot drinks and the most wonderful home-made cakes, served on fine vintage china atop embroidered tablecloths. We take our fuel stops very seriously!
With the exception of July and August we hold a monthly market through March to December at Lark Lane. But this year, as I have retired from my day job, I hope to have the capacity to hold extra pop up markets around and about. But news of those later in the year. When I know, you will, so keep an eye on the Instagram page for details.
East Street Concrete
LMB operates a first come best served policy. When one event finishes, we issue a callout for stallholders for our next event, on Instagram and Facebook. Potential attendees provide pictures of what they wish to sell. If their work is made by them and is sufficiently different from the work of those we have already signed up, we invite them to join us (subject, to receipt of their public and product liability insurance and payment).
In addition to our frequent attendees, happily we have new artists joining us each time. We have been lucky enough to host some very experienced makers alongside first timers, which can be of benefit to both. Sales aside, there are many networking benefits at our events. I have seen firm friendships forged, productive business introductions made and opportunities seized. On a smaller scale practical advice such as recommendations for insurance, card readers or packaging is offered freely between stallholders, alongside suggestions to improve display layouts or expand on products on offer.
Liverpool is an incredibly creative city brimming with people who have amazing ideas and the technical know-how to realise them. I have been delighted to have met so many talented local people and hope to meet more in the future. It would also be my pleasure to introduce you to some of them, with the assistance of the ever supportive Uncover Liverpool. I have been asked to bring you a series of interviews spotlighting some of the wonderful small local business owners who are doing what they love and with your help as customers hope to forge a livelihood from it.
In June 2022, Unity Theatre released their very own online streaming service, ‘Unity Online’. This service now means there is an archive of eclectic and eccentric performances originally from the Unity stage that you can view comfortably from home, if you prefer. Or, perhaps you missed the original viewing because of schedule clashes, or illness; Unity Online gives you a Plan B for the unfortunate live theatre-goer typical mishaps. Unity is well into its Winter/Spring programme, and so Unity Online offers many of the shows you may have missed during the colder Winter months.
What is so special about Unity Online is that all performances are filmed in front of live audiences, and so as a viewer at home, you get that feeling and buzz of being in the theatre. You equally can create your own viewing party, without worrying about paying for numerous tickets, making for a more accessible experience.
This is an exciting opportunity for artists at Unity Theatre, giving those who are featured on the platform a recording of their performance, enabling them to utilise this for future marketing and promotion. All round, a positive move towards a more accessible and tangible theatre scene.
I had the good fortune of seeing a show which is now featured on the Unity Online platform entitled ‘Tough Old Bird’, which I enjoyed thoroughly and after watching, I wanted to show my friends and family the show. With this platform it’s so easy for me to do so.
The shows featured on the platform are wide-ranging and ever-changing, keeping the platform fresh and engaging for audiences. The platform also features teasers for new releases, interviews and podcasts, and news.
Luke Bryant, Unity Theatre’s Marketing Campaigns Lead said:
“Unity Online means so much to us at Unity, and hopefully also to the large community of artists that it platforms. As a site dedicated to making incredible work from Liverpool-based artists accessible to the whole world, it encapsulates everything we set out to achieve as an organisation, both on stage and online. As the site grows, now more than half of Unity Online viewers watch from outside of Liverpool, which we think is a great achievement!’
As for where Unity Online is going; in the future we can’t wait to develop the platform with our various content series, like the Roundtable discussions as well as a brand-new dedicated resource hub. We hope for Unity Online to grow into a truly unique hybrid of top-quality entertainment and artistic education.”
All in all, as an epic project to diversify the accessibility to Unity Theatre and grow the audiences for upcoming artists, Unity Online is a fantastic offering. Check it out for yourself at www.unitytheatreliverpool.co.uk/unity-online/
St Helens, in the Liverpool City Region, offers plenty of exciting things to do. Explore its rich heritage at the North West Museum of Road Transport and the World of Glass, or enjoy a peaceful walk around Carr Mill Dam. Art lovers can dive into local workshops and events, while nature enthusiasts can relax at the Dream sculpture. For live entertainment, catch a show at St Helens Theatre Royal, or unwind with a visit to Inglenook Farm. Discover all the best things to do in St Helens for your next day out!
World of Glass
Things to do in St Helens:
1. North West Museum of Road Transport
This engaging Road Transport Museum is based in the old town centre bus depot, which dates back to 1881. The museum is home to a fleet of historic buses, previously in operation across the whole region.
Head along on weekends and Bank Holidays, to view their collection of single and double-decker buses dating back to the 1930s, all decked-out in their original livery.
The museum also displays other fascinating vintage vehicles, including a fire engine from the 1950s, and a range of historic cars.
The Old Bus Depot: 51 Hall St, Saint Helens WA10 1DU.
2. Heart of Glass
If you’re looking for things to do in St Helens that celebrate creativity and community, Heart of Glass is a community arts organisation in St Helens. They believe that art has the power to bring us together and create real change, for the people of their community. Through collaboration and conversation, they bring amazing art projects to the most surprising of spaces throughout St Helens, Knowsley and beyond.
Their community projects have included creating colourful murals to cover concrete buildings with the help of young families in supported accommodation (Sphere of Nature), or working with colleagues across Europe as a founding partner of the Collaborative Arts Partnership Programme, a four year programme of artist exchange, research and learning.
Their philosophy is simple: art belongs everywhere, to everyone. Discover their upcoming events and workshops here.
Haydock Street, St Helens, WA10 1DD
3. Wonder Arts
Wonder Arts (previously Citadel Arts Centre) is a children and families organisation operating exclusively in non-traditional spaces in St Helens. They provide high quality arts experiences for children and family audiences who would not otherwise engage with arts venues.
They operate as a building-free organisation and offer experiences different from the norm. The team work in the public realm, in communities and in outreach settings delivering their unique arts activities. Find out about their upcoming events here.
Dentons Green Lane, St Helens, WA10 2QB
4. Car Mill Dam
A lovely place to stroll around with an option of a scenic drink at a waterside cafe. Ideal to relax and watch the local wildlife, which includes Goldfinch, Blackbirds and Grey Herons.
The four hundred year old Carr Mill Dam is also a great spot for water sports enthusiasts and anglers, the lake is crossed by the impressive Nineteen Arches Bridge and there are well made footpaths around the entire dam.
The site also contains the only tract of ancient woodland in St Helens.
Carr Mill Dam: Billinge, St Helens, WA11 7LX.
5. World of Glass
For a unique cultural experience, the World of Glass museum is one of the top things to do in St Helens.
Pilkington display their World of Glass collections at this excellent canal-side museum, located on the site of the former glass factory.
You can view the collections of ornate studio glass and discover the history of St Helens’ glassmaking trade, from its 17th-century inception to a heyday in the 19th and early 20th century.
Their Glass Roots Gallery looks at the wider history of glass, displaying pieces going back to Ancient Egypt. Glassmaking demonstrations are held every day, and you can even try your hand at a glassblowing course.
World of Glass: Chalon Way E, St Helens, Saint Helens WA10 1BX.
6. St Helens Theatre Royal
Dating back to the early 1900s, St Helens Theatre Royal was designed by renowned theatre architect Frank Matcham, and was later revamped in the 1960s.
Theatre Royal has a wide and interesting programme of events. This year, their programme features comedians such as Sarah Millican, pantomimes, musicals and Dinosaur World Live events for kids.
The venue hosts appearances by sports personalities, many relating to Liverpool FC, and popular cultural figures. In the school holidays, kids can also watch colourful science demonstrations and children’s shows adapted from books and TV.
St Helens Theatre Royal: Corporation St, Saint Helens WA10 1LQ.
7. Dream
Dream is an impressive sculpture and piece of public art by Jaume Plensa. In 2008, St Helens took part in Channel 4’s The Big Art Project along with several other sites. The project culminated in the unveiling of Dream, a 66-foot-high sculpture located on the old Sutton Manor Colliery site.
The council and local residents (including 15 former miners from the colliery) were involved in the consultation and commission process through which Dream was selected. The plans involved a full landscaping of the surrounding area on land previously allowed to go wild after the closure of the pit.
Sutton Manor, St Helens, WA9 4BE
8. Things to do in Inglenook Farm
The farm is ideal for a relaxing family day out, kids will love the farm’s animals, which include a pair of Shetland ponies, goats, ducks, peacocks and chickens. The land is also used to grow chamomile and lavender for essential oils, which are distilled on site.
There’s a host of local businesses based at Inglenook Farm’s courtyard, a craft beer shop, a vintage bike restorer, a pet groomer, and a garden room designer.
Visitors can also drop-in to their legendary farmhouse cafe for cooked breakfasts and lunchtime bites.
Inglenook Farm: Moss Nook Lane, Rainford, St Helens, WA11 8AE.
To discover events happening across the Liverpool city region visit our What’s On events listings.
Have we missed anything in this article? Let us know! Get in touch with Clare at clare@culture.org.uk. We strive to make our features as inclusive as possible, so we’re keen to hear your suggestions of things to do in St Helens.
Mark Stratford held the audience in the palm of his hands at Hope Street Theatre last night, during his one man adaptation of the famous Robert Louis Stevenson novella.
The play stayed faithful to its 19th century roots, while at the same time aesthetically stripping it down to its bare minimum. However, elaborate sets and lighting were not needed when the main actor was so full of depth.
Stratford conceived, designed and adapted this take on good vs evil, and thoroughly delivered on what he set out to achieve.
He commences the play by addressing the audience as Inspector Newcomen, where he breaks the fourth wall, in a manner to gain the audience’s attention, and set out to tell this strange tale. He takes on a sway-back posture, complete with hands on hips and cockney accent to establish the character.
This adjusting of his gait is something that he masters all the way through the performance, allowing the audience to subvert reality and accept him in all the various characters that he plays. Whether he is upright and respectable as Dr Jekyll or hunched and spider-like as Mr Hyde, his physical transformation into all of these characters is quite astonishing.
The heart of the show lies in the character of Mr Utterson – Dr Jekyll’s lawyer and most trusted friend. Mr Utterson is warm and relatable and takes the audience with him through his investigation into the relationship between Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde.
The set, also designed by Stratford, was basic – just small 19th century tables and props placed strategically across a bare stage, however, this was enough to transport the audience to the time period. Stratford’s costume was that of a true Victorian gentleman, yet it was easy to envision costume changes on the different characters.
While the lighting was basic and minimum, it was essential to the mood and story. It was obvious when there was a scene change as the lighting indicated this – dark with a spotlight for night time, red when there was a murder, soft white for day time and -most striking of all – green when the gruesome Mr Hyde made an appearance.
The final reveal of the real connection between Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde might have played out a little too long, yet it was a tour-de-force of acting from Mr Stratford. He manically changed from character to character, adjusting his accents and stance impeccably. His Mr Hyde was so menacing during this period that their were several nervous giggles from the audience throughout.
If one was to become analytical then the final fifteen minutes of the story could be compared to someone suffering from addiction – the potion changes his personality until he is needing more and more each time. Mr Stratford’s physical performance left him sweating as protrusively as someone in withdrawal.
Whether metaphorical or not, this performance of The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde should not be missed. Mark Stratford deserves many accolades and success for the amount of work and talent that he has poured into this production.
5/5
The Stratford Playhouse are currently touring The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde. You can find their tour dates here.
At the beginning of November, Creative UK launched Redesigning Freelancing, a collective initiative shaped by members and partners across the UK creative landscape to empower freelance workers and organisations to drive change and build greater equality into freelance workforce.
The initiative is working in partnership with nine Combined Authorities to reach creative communities across the UK and to understand the challenges that freelancers face locally as well as nationally. Liverpool’s March For The Arts, Sky, BFI, IPSE, Freelancer Club, Scottish Ballet, Society of Authors and many others are getting behind the survey, which aims to shape industry standards, drive change and futureproof all parts of the work environment for freelancers across the sector to create greater long-term value and sustainability into the freelance ecology.
March for the Arts is a collective dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of the arts. They champion those who work in arts industries and campaign positively about the power of the arts to improve lives. Read more about March For The Arts here.
Creative UK’s goal is simple: to cultivate a world where creativity is championed, valued, and fundamentally nurtured.
Caroline Norbury OBE, CEO of Creative UK said:
“Freelancers are the backbone of the Creative Industries. Yet economic uncertainty means we risk losing the next generation of creative freelancers – particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds. We can already see that freelancers are leaving the sector, with skills gaps becoming a major issue across all parts of the UK. However, being a freelancer can be a rewarding career, allowing for greater flexibility and variety. It is our collective responsibility to ensure more is done to protect our freelancers, integrate them with organisations in order to build better partnerships and make sure there is a fair and equal playing field. This survey will help us to identify the key priorities that need action now.”
Neil Peplow, Director of Industry and International Affairs, BFI said:
“The BFI welcomes this survey, which recognises that freelancers face many challenges and that they may work across different creative industries. Film and TV employs a high proportion of freelance workers who help make the UK a world-class production location. As highlighted in the BFI Skills Review 2022, it is vital that these freelancers are supported to progress and develop their careers if the UK is to grow and retain a highly skilled workforce.”
Are you a freelancer or do you employ freelancers?
Here’s your chance to have your say in the UK’s largest freelance survey, aiming to improve working conditions and drive industry change.
The survey takes approximately 5 minutes and it would be great to have as many people as possible from as many arts disciplines as possible to take part across the Liverpool City Region.
Take part in the Redesigning Freelancing survey now. The survey is open until 27 January 2023.
Runcorn and Widnes, located in the heart of the Liverpool City Region, are packed with exciting things to do. From exploring historic sites and scenic parks to enjoying family-friendly attractions, these two towns offer a perfect mix of culture, nature, and entertainment. Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or just looking for a relaxing day out, Runcorn and Widnes have something for everyone. From exploring historic sites to enjoying scenic parks, there’s no shortage of things to do in Runcorn and Widnes. Here are the top 8 activities to add to your list!
Credit: Norton Priory Museum & Gardens Facebook Page
1. Norton Priory Museum and Gardens
For history buffs looking for things to do in Runcorn, Norton Prioryis a must-visit. Known for being the most excavated monastic site in Europe. The site boasts the priory ruins, and an 18th century Walled Garden, it is located within an oasis of 42 acres of tranquil woodland and wildflower meadows. The Brindley Theatre is a popular spot for things to do in Runcorn.
The museum includes two exhibition galleries which explore the site’s history, including the archaeological digs which took place in the 1970s and 1980s. Thousands of artefacts from Norton’s 900 year history are on display, including the 14th century statue of St. Christopher, which features in Lucy M. Boston’s classic children’s book, The Children of Green Knowe.
Norton Priory: Tudor Road, Runcorn, WA7 1SX.
2. The Brindley Theatre
Located by the Bridgewater Canal, the centre is named after the canal’s engineer, James Brindley. It opened in autumn 2004. The Brindley Theatre has won several awards for its architecture including the Architectural Award from the Royal Institute of British Architects.
The venue plays host to touring productions, a professional pantomime each Christmas season, local amateur shows and in-house productions. A separate studio space serves as a single screen cinema, an exhibition and gallery. The venue’s bar and café overlook the scenic canal.
The Brindley Theatre: High Street, Runcorn, WA7 1BG.
3. Halton Castle
If you’re looking for things to do, look no further than Halton Castle. The castle is one of the two surviving Norman castles in Cheshire and stands on a rocky hill overlooking the Mersey River above the former village of Halton. This location is a clear choice for it’s elevation and potential as an observation post.
At Halton Castle, there are a number of fascinating features such as the sally port, garderobe and tower. The castle itself is opened for special events and tours several times a year, however it is accessible to walk around the castle walls at any time of the year. A must-do for visitors looking for things to do in Widnes.
Halton Castle: Castle Road, Runcorn, WA7 2BE.
4. Wigg Island Community Park
A community park and local nature reserve, Wigg Island was originally Runcorn saltmarsh. A community park was opened in 2002 by the Mayor of Halton and celebrity birdwatcher Bill Oddie.
The nature reserve covers 57 acres and is very popular with birdwatchers. There are a number of bird hides and long views over the Mersey estuary, with plenty of wide open spaces and things to do. It’s also great for dogs and there’s woodland walks with trolls and sculptures, Bee Orchids are amongst the wild flowers found there.
The area has a cycle path leading from Wigg to Port Warrington and Moore Nature Reserve as well as a visitor centre and a wind turbine.
Wigg Island Community Park: Expressway A553, off Astmoor Industrial Estate, Runcorn, WA7 1LU.
Credit: Catalyst Science Discovery Centre Facebook Page
5. Catalyst Science Discovery Centre
Catalayst makes science exciting and accessible to people of all ages and abilities, explore the award winning galleries, visit the stunning interactive theatre, experience fun activities in the lab or travel 30m above the River Mersey in the external glass lift to the glass walled observatory gallery.
The museum regularly hosts family shows and hands-on workshops to help get everyone involved in the world of science. The centre also has an Elements cafe with scenic riverside views.
Catalyst is normally open Tuesday to Sunday and has free car parking.
A nice area for a short walk, free parking, plenty of grassed areas to explore and to see the lovely wild flowers and birds. Pickerings Pasture is a beautiful, relaxing, local riverside walking spot. The site was many years ago the local council’s household refuse tip but has been brilliantly reclaimed.
A Green Flag Award winning local nature reserve with acres of wild flower meadows and a fabulous view across the upper Mersey estuary.
Both indoor and outdoor, Widnes Market offers the shopper traditional value in a modern setting.
Stallholders provide fresh fruit, fish, vegetables, flowers, fresh and cooked meats, a wide range of clothing and furnishings, hardware, telephone accessories, Cafe, and even haircuts! Wednesdays there’s a flea and collectors market selling second hand goods, from books to vacuum cleaners and coins.
Open every day except Tuesday and Sunday, they offer free parking, next to the bus station and near the central shopping area.
A lovely local, canal side walking area, situated at the end of the old St Helens canal, on the edge of the River Mersey. It is an artificial island between the Sankey Canal and the estuary of the river. The area plays host to a range of waterfowl and friendly swans. There are also short hiking trails you can take, with a suggested duration of 1-2 hours.
The island is also famous for being the site of the legendary Stone Roses one day festival in 1990. The gig briefly turned Spike Island into the coolest place in the country.
Spike Island: Upper Mersey Rd, Widnes WA8 0DG.
Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or local shopping, there are plenty of things to do in Runcorn and Widnes. These two towns in the Liverpool City Region offer a diverse range of activities that cater to all interests. Be sure to explore these top attractions and make the most of your visit!
To discover events happening across the Liverpool city region visit our What’s On events listings.
There’s a host of festive activities and events for children this December, from Christmas singalongs and crafting to pantomimes and Arctic-themed workshops.
Singalong with Santa
1. Christmas Incy Wincy Rhymers
Celebrate Christmas with some special Festive Incy Wincy Rhymers this December. The Reader’s sessions are for little ones, 1-4 years old, and their families.
They’ll explore Christmas stories, festive favourites and seasonal nursery rhymes through storytelling and sing-a-longs. Under ones are free but will still need a ticket. The sessions last for 70 minutes.
The Reader, until 21 December, various times.
2. Up Close With: Nature In The Snow
World Museum are going out into the wild! Each month the Participation team are set loose on Gallery, bringing their handling collections out for you to explore and enjoy. Keep your eyes peeled for their team and their trolley full of incredible stories and specimens.
This December, the team explore the Arctic and other snowy habitats to learn about the incredible animals and plants that survive in the snow.
This year, the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and Children’s Choirs have something very special lined-up for Christmas. This fabulously festive performance contains all the magical ingredients for the perfect family Christmas celebration.
The singalong will feature Christmas favourites such as Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree and Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town, plus a host of seasonal surprises, so get ready to sing your heart out!
Take the opportunity to create something festive in the Maritime Museum’s fun, child-friendly art and craft session. Their facilitators will help you to make something fantastic to take home.
The workshops are free and held in the morning and afternoon so drop in and get creative with them!
Take the whole family to Aladdin, an action-packed pantomime staged in The Atkinson’s traditional theatre. TV and film actor Patsy Kensit stars as the Genie of the Lamp!
Joining Patsy on stage are a fabulous cast of panto professionals. Merseyside dancer and actor Dominic Gore plays the hero Aladdin and Southport’s very own Tom Burroughs is the evil Abanazer.
The Atkinson, Southport until 31 December, various times.
6. Craft and Create – Christmas
Enjoy a break from the hustle and bustle of the city centre and make something unique to decorate your home or to gift to someone special.
These craft workshops are free and ideal to fire youngsters’ imaginations, all in the wonderful surroundings of the Walker Art Gallery for inspiration!
