WAY ABOVE THE HOUSES: A SPECTACULAR CELEBRATION OF SALFORD IS COMING TO MEDIACITY

Commissioned by Quays Culture and in partnership with Cirque Bijou, Way Above the Houses is a unique arts project, inspired by the people of Salford.

Taking place on Saturday 11th June at MediaCity, with thanks to Lottery funding from Arts Council England, preparations have already started for this spectacular one-off event that will feature stories and words from local people living in Salford.

Way Above the Houses will start outside The Lowry with a performance featuring local dancers, led by experienced choreographer Lizzie Klotz, creating a kaleidoscope of moving lights, using illuminated and colourful umbrellas. From The Lowry, performers and audiences will process over the bridges, past the Imperial War Museum, arriving in MediaCity’s Piazza for an extraordinary display of aerial acts, community performances and local voices.

The project is being shaped by stories gathered from local people about what Salford means to them, through a series of unique, reflective and inspiring workshops. These stories will be woven together by critically acclaimed musician Ted Barnes, who is writing new music especially for the piece.  A community choir will perform the music live as part of the show, brought together by Ordsall Singers’ Choir Leader, Jeff Borradaille.

Rachel Adams, Producer of Way Above the Houses, has been working with The Lowry Learning & Engagement team to gather stories from communities at Salford Foyer, Oasis Academy and groups at Salford Community Leisure that will feature as part of the piece. She says, “As individuals, we all have a unique story and experience of a place. When we come together as a community, we become greater than the sum of our parts. We want people to feel connected to Salford and have a feeling of belonging; being inspired listening to the stories of others.”

Way Above The Houses will be the second time Quays Culture have partnered Cirque Bijou at MediaCity. The two performances on Saturday 11^th June at 5.30pm and 9pm, will allow audiences to watch this illuminating and spectacular show in daylight and darkness.

The event is FREE to attend, but sign-ups are encouraged, especially for those with access requirements. The show will have BSL interpretation – both live and virtually, via the big screen in MediaCity’s Piazza.

Jennifer Taylor, Programme Producer at Quays Culture comments; “We’re thrilled to be working with Cirque Bijou once again on this exciting project. We’re investing in the local community involvement more than ever this year, speaking directly with Salford residents and local groups – this aspect is so important to us, and we can’t wait to see how that comes across in the final production.”

Josie Cahill, MediaCity’s Creative Director said: “This promises to be a magical performance set right in the heart of MediaCity that will capture the imagination and inspire visitors of all ages. We’re delighted to be working with the Quays Culture team in helping make this wonderful outdoor production a reality. Our wide, open, waterfront space makes it the perfect location.”

Quays Culture expect thousands of visitors to come and view this community-led arts piece.

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