Community Post Type: News

Heart of Glass awarded National Lottery Heritage Fund grant for a new arts project celebrating ‘strong women’ of Knowsley and St Helens

The team are delighted to announce that Heart of Glass has been awarded a grant of £95,998 from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, to develop a new art project called “Strong Women” over the next two years.

Made possible by money raised by National Lottery players, it aims to capture and highlight the untold stories of women in St Helens and Knowsley and celebrate their contributions to the boroughs. It will also explore women’s and LGBTQIA+ people’s role within the history of street art.

The project will include the creation of two new public artworks by artist Carrie Reichardt. Carrie is an internationally known artist who uses a mix of mural, mosaic and screenprinting techniques to create elaborate works of art (famously mosaicing her entire house in London). She will be working with the community to create two new pieces of large scale street art within St Helens and Knowsley neighbourhoods.

Carrie will be working with groups of local residents and community groups to create individual ceramic tiles as well as researching local history and unearthing people’s stories to develop the artwork. There will be an opportunity for a local artist to be mentored by Carrie as part of the programme, as well as a programme of public events and activities exploring women and LGBTQ+ people’s impact within the traditionally male-dominated world of street art. The project will also include a schools programme including resources for teachers exploring street art with children.

Visit the Heart of Glass website here

After closing its doors back in 2022, music fans were sad at the loss of the famous Dome at Grand Central Hall on Renshaw Street in Liverpool city centre. However, a group of regional hospitality experts were determined to act in order to bring life back to the building, which is not only rich in architectural and cultural history, the updated refinements make it the ultimate in larger-scale, contemporary music venues.

The Dome at Grand Central Hall is a unique, Grade II listed Art Nouveau designed building, which originally opened in 1905 as a Methodist church, and was then redeveloped as a cinema, as well as playing host to the Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra while the Philharmonic Hall was rebuilt following a fire. It is simply a vital part of the city’s rich heritage.

Now in 2023, the new team in place have their own extensive experience in entertainment and hospitality over eleven current venues operating in the pub, bar and club sector in the city. The Dome at Grand Central Hall has now been relaunched as a multi-event space which has already hosted some leading events featuring world-class talent.

The team have recently celebrated their exclusive event featuring PAWSA, which sold out in under thirty minutes: the London-based DJ whose sets are renowned around the globe, including at Coachella, Brazil, Ibiza, Los Angeles, and Miami. A huge name on the festival circuit, including closer to home for locals of the region, at Creamfields, this remarkable talent praised his opening night at The Dome as a ‘‘sick, sold-out show at a brand new venue –  thank you to everyone involved!’’

No Art also visited The Dome for an unbelievable, sold-out night last month featuring Alci, Anotr, Loa Szala, Mateo Dufour and Toman. The independent label and event curator seek out unique locations and their reveal-on-the-night line-ups bring an element of musical and artistic surprise. In their own words: ‘‘the energy you brought to our Liverpool debut was exactly what we had in mind, and can’t wait to meet you on the dance floor again.’’

The Dome is now preparing itself for a busy summer season including playing host to outstanding talent Roger Sanchez, industry legend Paul Oakenfold, and Oasish, leading tribute band to iconic British band, Oasis.

A spokesperson for The Dome at Grand Central Hall explains: ‘Taking on this legendary building was really important to us as a team – it is far too beautiful a space to not be available to music and entertainment fans.

However, as a really experienced group of experts who put quality and standards at the heart of everything we do, it was absolutely vital that we put in place some major investment before reopening. This has included a state-of-the-art sound system, updated lighting, venue amenities and a new air-conditioning system, as well as improved stage facilities. We have also brought the number of bars in the site to four, which are much-needed in a venue of this size, and increased the number of  toilets significantly. All of these are important in order to attract the very best in the business. Our venue now has a capacity of 3,576 and so is a major player.

Liverpool has a unique standing on the world music stage. The city has just attracted over 500.000 fans for Eurovision 2023, which was five times the amount of visitors expected. We hosted our own live event here at The Dome, and we know that from speaking to guests they visited to also feel a part of the city’s musical history, and of course, because of the warmth of the welcome.

Hosting artists like PAWSA, Paul Oakenfold and Roger Sanchez is a real coup for us. Again, the city has its own distinct timeline in terms of its contribution to all forms of dance music, and so artists on a world-class stage are aware of the city’s importance and its hugely energetic atmosphere. As a venue we are here to provide them with the very best stage to play on, and we welcome guests not just from around the city region, but from throughout the UK and far further afield.

We also reach a broader audience in terms of the highest quality tribute bands we attract including Oasish, and Absolutely Britney. We are also looking forward to our Cafe Mambo Classics event – we want The Dome at Grand Central to have a wide appeal. We have a whole host of upcoming events over the summer, and our track record so far suggests that tickets won’t be around for too long before being snapped up.

As a team we are also really pleased that we are in a position to give back to the community. On 28th May 2023 we will be hosting our Ibiza Calling Free Party, in aid of the Clatterbridge Cancer Charity. It’s the perfect opportunity on the next Bank Holiday Sunday to enjoy noted past and present DJ’s past and present deliver Ibiza anthems, whilst contributing to a cause close to all of our hearts.

Everyone here is really proud of what we have achieved so far. In a building that is now nearly 120 years old, it now plays host to the most contemporary and thrilling live music and DJ events. It is the mix of traditional and up-to-date vibe which our city is globally renowned for.’

The Dome at Grand Central Hall is based at 35-45 Renshaw Street Liverpool L1 2SF.

For tickets and further information see here

His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Edward, has today visited Prescot to formally open Shakespeare North Playhouse and take a tour of this new multi-million pound arts venue.

The Duke was welcomed to Shakespeare North Playhouse by Max Steinberg CBE DL, the Chair of the Shakespeare North Trust and playhouse Chief Executive, Melanie Lewis.

He also met local MP Marie Rimmer; Knowsley Council Leader, Cllr Graham Morgan; Chief Executive, Mike Harden; the Mayor and Mayoress of Knowsley; the High Sherriff of Merseyside, Dr Ruth Hussey; Lord and Lady Derby and Lady Anne Dodd.

The Duke chatted to some of the people who have been instrumental in the creation of this new cultural venue including members of the construction team, architects and project managers. He also met key members of the Shakespeare North Playhouse team and some of the creative professionals involved in the opening programme. A key highlight of his visit was meeting children from Alt Bridge School who are engaged in the educational offer available at theatre.

After his tour of the new building and cockpit theatre, HRH unveiled a commemorative plaque to mark the visit and the building’s official opening.

See their website here for show listings.

A huge mural, which brings together more than 60 Liverpool musicians, Sam Ryder and reigning Eurovision champions Kalush Orchestra, has been unveiled by MerseyMade as part of an artistic collaboration between Liverpool and Ukrainian artists.

The striking artwork is set to hit the right note with music fans during Eurovision week after being installed at SP Energy Networks’ substation on Paradise Street, which leads to M&S Bank Arena.

Inspired by Peter Blake’s legendary Sgt Pepper album cover, the mural features a collage by Liverpool artist Susannah-Rachel Gorman, which depicts some of the city’s most influential musicians from The Beatles, Gerry Marsden and Cilla Black to Echo and The Bunnymen, The Christians and The Lightning Seeds. Bursting with vibrant colours, the artwork also features some of Liverpool’s best known pop stars including Eurovision icon Sonia, Atomic Kitten and Rebecca Ferguson, as well as up and coming local indie bands such as The Cheap Thrills, The Mysterines, Banners, Zuzu and King Hannah.

Ukrainian artist Aileen River created a portrait of Kalush Orchestra especially for the mural, while fellow Ukrainians Victoria Ustymenko and Maria Maksym painted nightingales and sunflowers to represent their country alongside poppies as a symbol of remembrance and hope. The work of two MerseyMade artists is also featured in the dazzling mural; an illustration of the iconic Liver Buildings by Grace Emily and a portrait of Sam Ryder by Laleh Kamalian. Joining together the city’s home-grown musicians with Eurovision stars, the artwork is in keeping with the ‘United by Music’ theme of this year’s event.

Mike McCartney visited MerseyMade as the mural was unveiled this morning. He said: “It’s lovely and pictures the old and new Liverpool – a nice idea. It’s the highlights of Liverpool. MerseyMade asked me for a picture of Scaffold and I gave a picture that’s been incorporated. It’s full of wonderful Liverpool stars and it’s an honour to be among them – on a wall in Liverpool in Eurovision!”

Speaking on the uplifting artwork, MerseyMade Founder, Vicky Gawith, said: “The mural looks fantastic and it’s  been wonderful to work with such a talented group of artists from Liverpool and Ukraine to create this special artwork for the city. We’re extremely grateful to SP Energy Networks for supporting this project and allowing us to use the Paradise Street substation as part of our Eurovision celebrations.

“This year’s Eurovision Song Contest is particularly important for my family as my step-mum Galina, who has lived in Liverpool for many years, is Ukrainian. When the war broke out, her sister Luda took the difficult decision to leave her home and head to Liverpool for safety. She has been given a very warm welcome by the city and the team at MerseyMade, where she has become a valued member of staff at our Scribble café. We now also have a very talented Ukrainian baker called Nataliia working with us after she fled to Liverpool to escape the conflict. It’s a real privilege for Liverpool to host Eurovision on behalf of Ukraine and we’re all very much looking forward to joining the festivities.”

In addition, the venue is showcasing the work of Ukrainian artists during Eurovision week and hosting a yellow and blue flower crown masterclass with Channel 4’s Gemma Longworth. There will also be free interactive creative sessions, where guests will be invited to paint or colour in a special Samchykivka drawing called ‘Home’, designed by Ukrainian artist Victoria Radochyna.

These special drawings will be taken back to Ukraine and given to people who have fled their homes because of the war, as a way of sending greetings from Liverpool.

MerseyMade, which is brimming with unique creations from local artists and artisans, combines a delightful shop with a charming café, artists’ studios and an intimate events space. Visitors can find a treasure trove of delights at the creative hub, ranging from original paintings, prints and jewellery to homeware, organic skincare, craft gins, gifts and cards.

There are also special souvenirs available by MerseyMade artists including Sophie Green, Grace Emily, Jenny Dunlop, Clare Watson and David Nopov, which have been created to mark Eurovision and Liverpool’s unique partnership with Ukraine.

MerseyMade is open from 9am to 6pm Monday to Saturday and 10am to 5pm on Sundays. Visit merseymade.uk to find out more and follow MerseyMade on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook to keep up to date with the latest news.

The National Lottery is announcing the largest legacy initiative announced so far for Eurovision 2023. Providing vital support to live music, The National Lottery’s United By Music Tour will see charity Music Venue Trust stage 150 gigs at 130 venues across the UK.

Artists such as Cat Burns, Blossoms and Metronomy amongst others are due to appear at gigs from mid-June to highlight the importance of supporting grassroots music venues.

The announcement takes The National Lottery contribution to grassroots venues through the United By Music Tour to £1.5m and comes at a crucial time when many venues are still suffering the fallout from the pandemic and the impact of the cost of living crisis.

Tickets for The National Lottery’s United by Music Tour will be live on May 15 2023  at 10am. See www.unitedbymusic.live for tickets. 

In the coming days, the Museum of Liverpool will be transforming its steps and terraces, along with its iconic façade, to transport passers-by into fantastical, undiscovered worlds and immerse themselves in the musical spirit of Eurovision.

From Monday 8 May, the magnificent south end of the museum, looking towards the city’s Royal Albert Dock and waterfront, will be brought to life through interactive piano keys, encouraging musical play, as people move up and down the building’s steps.

In addition, the Eurovision Walk of Fame experience will invite people to explore, see and hear iconic Eurovision moments from years past, through Augmented Reality (AR) technology. A selection of the steps outside the museum will feature interactive scannable elements, compatible with social media platform Instagram, giving people the chance to relive some iconic moments from Eurovision’s past. This project is a collaboration between National Museums Liverpool, Ukrainian national Veronika Yasnska, and leading Ukrainian AR/VR creative agency ADVIN.

Also from Monday 8 until Saturday 13 May, passers-by will be immersed in showstopping artistic interventions being projected directly on to the façade of the Museum from 8.30pm each evening.

Windows to New Worlds (with its Ukrainian translation of Вікна в нові світи), is an incredible co-production between National Museums Liverpool and Crucial FX, creative specialists in digital, interactive and immersive technology for live events based in Ellesmere Port. The experience has been commissioned by Liverpool City Council’s Culture Liverpool and is part of the city-wide EuroFestival, bringing memorable cultural experiences to Liverpool as the city hosts the Eurovision Song Contest 2023.

The project is a key part of National Museums Liverpool’s Eurovision celebrations, which also includes two special Eurovision Xtra events on both semi-final nights, 9 and 11 May, hosted by Liverpool drag legend Danny Beard and Radio City star Leanne Campbell.

The ADVIN team says of the collaboration: “We wanted to give visitors an immersive experience for them to dive into the history of Eurovision and listen to songs from years past which continue to dominate the world music charts. These interactive stairs use augmented reality to help visitors feel like they are a part of the Eurovision world.

“The interactive steps not only feature the top 12 streamed Eurovision tracks of the past decade, but also feature and pay tribute to Sam Ryder, who represented the United Kingdom in 2022. Kalush Orchestra, our Ukrainian band who won last year’s contest, are also featured. We are so pleased to contribute a part of us and Ukraine.”

Explore more digital content, full events listings and more on their website at liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/eurovision

Physical Fest 2023 – Liverpool’s pioneering international physical theatre festival – will launch with SealSkin, a show combining highly skilled physicality, Scottish folklore, and live music, running at the Everyman Theatre from 29th June – 1st July. 

Music from the production will be performed by North West acoustic folk duo, Me + Deboe. Blending rhythmic folk musings with delicately woven harmonies, Me + Deboe’s energetic and intricate compositions have captivated audiences across the UK, Europe and the USA.

More information about the festival can be found here 

Following tickets for the United By Music Tour of Liverpool selling out in less than four minutes, The National Lottery and leading UK charity Music Venue Trust has announced an additional gig taking place the week of Eurovision.  

Lightning Seeds, Girls Don’t Sync, Miles Kane and Michael Aldag will all take to the stage at a special gig at the Eurovision Village in Liverpool on Wednesday 10^th May to celebrate the city’s hosting of the world’s biggest music event. It forms part of The National Lottery’s United by Music Tour. 

Entry to Wednesday’s gig is FREE and has a capacity of 15,000, however tickets will not be sold in advance so fans need to head down quickly as spaces will be given on a first come, first served basis. Gates for the Eurovision Village at Liverpool’s Pier Head opens at 12.00 noon.  There will be a range of performances in the build up to the evening show including appearances from some of the acts competing in Eurovision 2023. The National Lottery’s United by Music gig will start at 18.30 until approx 22.00. 

The National Lottery’s United By Music Tour of Liverpool sees over 20 gigs at 20 music venues across Liverpool to showcase the city’s iconic music scene and to support the grassroots music venues that remain the lifeblood of UK music. Taking place in the week of Eurovision (May 8-12) the gigs will see a diverse range of headline artists from Liverpool, in iconic music venues across the city, including The Coral, Jamie Webster, the CRAWLERS and The Mysterines as well as Lightning Seeds and Miles Kane. Tickets for the Liverpool gigs sold out within four minutes but fans still have a chance to join the event being staged at the fan village on 10th May. 

This is the third year The National Lottery has partnered with Music Venue Trust, underwriting the full touring and production costs of artists participating, as part of their ongoing commitment to the grassroots music sector.  

The United by Music Tour of Liverpool is another way for The National Lottery to say thank you to the £330M players have contributed to over 3,600 music and cultural projects in Liverpool alone. 

Mark Dayvd, CEO of Music Venue Trust said, “We were completely blown away by the fantastic response to the announcement of The National Lottery’s United by Music Liverpool events. Liverpool is still the home of live music and we simply couldn’t meet the demand from local audiences to be part of a celebration of everything the city has to offer. So we have spoken with some of the key artists taking part and found a way to bring even more music to Liverpool, with a fantastic free entry event. Please get down early to secure your place!” 

Ian Broudie, lead singer of Lightning Seeds said: “We are delighted to be supporting a campaign that is backing so many music venues across Liverpool, one of the world’s leading cities for music. To play a part in providing Liverpool with a whole week of music is incredible and we’re thankful for The National Lottery and the Music Venue Trust for making it possible.”  

For more information on The National Lottery’s United By Music Tour of Liverpool, please visit: unitedbymusic.live 

The Patio at Formby Hall is open daily for bookings and walk-ins (food until 6pm, drinks until 10pm), with a chic canopy, cozy chairs, sofas, tables, fire pits and blankets for when the sun goes down. The Patio will play host to live music from local musicians every Thursday evening from 7pm.

It’s the perfect timing for Mediterranean-style outdoor dining on The Patio; the Met Office has this week indicated a mini heatwave is on its way, the evenings are getting lighter and there’s plenty of bank holidays on the horizon.

Overlooking the 18^th hole of Formby Hall’s championship golf course, guests can enjoy a daytime menu of tapas plates and wood-baked pizzas. The small plates menu, designed for sharing includes Red Pepper Hummus with Pita Bread, Feta & Pomegranate Salad and Red Wine Marinated Chorizo, together with Spiced Calamari & Paprika Mayonnaise and Meatballs in Spicy Tomato Sauce. All small plates are £7.50 each or 3 for £19.50.

Pizzas are freshly prepared and cooked al fresco in a wood-burning oven with classics like Margherita, Americano and Ham & Pineapple joining Olive & Caramelised Onion and Duck, Hoisin & Spring Onion.Pizzas are available from £15.95.

For a refreshing beverage, guests can sample soft drinks, beers, wines and spirits, including Formby Gin and a variety of tonics, as well as a summer cocktail menu.

For more information and to book (walk-ins also welcome), visit the website.

Keep an eye on Facebook and Instagram for the latest news and Patio events.

The first wave of cast members has been announced for the much anticipated By The Waters Of Liverpool Autumn 2023 UK Tour, after the inaugural tour closed just two weeks into a three-month nationwide tour due to the Covid pandemic.

The new stage production is based on the book of the same name by the acclaimed author Helen Forrester. Her enigmatic and touching portrayal of her life story continues to win her fans worldwide through four best-selling volumes of autobiography Twopence To Cross The Mersey, Liverpool Miss, By The Waters of Liverpool, and Lime Street At Two.

In just five months, By The Waters Of Liverpool Autumn 2023 UK Tour finally ventures out across the UK after its premiere run was cut short in March 2020. After a number of years in the planning, the production was just two weeks into a 17-venue tour spanning three months when the country went into a national lockdown.

Now the production team and cast are crossing off the weeks until the tour opens with a 10-date run at Liverpool’s Epstein Theatre from 6 September 2023. The eight-week tour will visit 12 venues across the country.

The creative team have this week announced the first wave of cast members, which includes familiar faces who have told Helen’s story through the plays in recent years.

Helen’s Mother will be played by Lynn Francis, she will be joined by Daniel Taylor, Lynne Fitzgerald, Roy Carruthers, Samantha Alton, and Joe Owens.

The lead roles of Helen Forrester, John Forrester (Helen’s Father), and Harry O’Dwyer (Helen’s love interest) will be announced soon.

The creative team are producers Rob Fennah and Lynn McDermott for Pulse Records Limited and Bill Elms. The show is directed by Gareth Tudor Price.