Universally Manchester Festival
Carmel Smickersgill, Tours & Activities Editor
The University of Manchester has been the birthplace of many scientific, historical, artistic and academic breakthroughs. To celebrate this world-renowned institution’s 200th birthday, Oxford Road, the home of the University, is hosting a huge free festival. Between 6 and 9 June, there will be more than 150 events — everything from talks and discussions to music, art, comedy and poetry.
Universally Manchester Festival will be a celebration of art, science, history and the people who’ve made the University what it is.
Headlining the talking part of the weekend is the outer space’s David Attenborough in waiting, Brian Cox. The much loved astrophysicist will be unpacking some of the universe’s greatest secrets. Alongside Brian Cox you can join familiar faces from the screen David Olusoga, Michael Wood, Ana Carden-Coyne and Sadiah Qureshi as they explore the history and future of television.
Every part of the University is getting involved, including the Whitworth Art Gallery, where there’ll be a day carnival on Sunday 9 June. On the Saturday evening, indefatigable and multinational girl band Grrrl will be bringing their catchy beats, bang on politics and charismatic line up of musical stars to Gilbert Square. You will also find Kantos chamber choir and Mr. Wilson’s Second Liners bringing musical joy to the square over the weekend.
Alongside the festival feel you can also see special pop up exhibitions at Manchester Museum and get hands on in science inspired craft workshops and visit the pop up market on Bridgeford Street. There are also a huge amount of talks talking place, ranging on subjects from NASA expeditions to social policy, scandal, feminist uprisings, war, and of course discussions that delve into Manchester’s past.
Nothing on this scale has been curated on Oxford Road Corridor before, making the weekend an exciting glimpse into how imaginative and immersive experiences can transform a place.
