Forum Library Creative Space update
Its been an exciting few months at the Forum Libraries Creative Space where we have hosted an array of unique and diverse performances for the people of Wythenshawe to enjoy. This has included dance troupes, choirs, film screenings, battle of the bands, exhibitions and even a fashion show to name a few. We are really following through on our offer of providing cultural and creative offers to peoples doorsteps. Our youth provision is ever growing with Expressive Artz our latest partner who are offering free weekly DJ/Rap/Lyric Writing sessions to 11-18 year olds every Tuesday evening. Brighter Sound have also returned to continue Amplify Sessions on Wednesdays in preparation for our award winning Wythenshawe Live on the 11th of June.
Chinese Dancing Troupe
Manchester and Wuhan are celebrating 40 years as sister cities this year. As part of this, Wuhan University sent a dance troupe to Manchester who put on a free performance at the Forum Libraries Creative Space. The Wuhan University dance troupe is a prominent, award-winning student dance group known for its diverse styles, strong training, and frequent performances both in China and internationally. This performance builds upon the ongoing cultural exchange which was celebrated during Manchester City Councils Japan Week.
Pioneer House Fashion Show
We held our first Fashion Show at the Creative Space which was a resounding success. It was great to use the full range of the staging to create a runway and again exemplifies the variety of activities we offer. Pioneer House organised a fantastic fashion show based on the principles of sustainability and sustainable practices within the fashion industry. Students impressed the audience with imaginative, environmentally conscious projects. Arts Award students unveiled bold monster sculptures mase entirely from waste materials, proving that rubbish can become remarkable. Sustainability was further explored in a talk by Neighbourhood Officer Lorna Herbert who addressed climate change and the vital role communities play in responding to this need. Her message reflected the spirit of the event; meaningful change begins locally through small collective actions.
It’s a Shawe Thing
We hosted our first exhibition “It’s a Shawe Thing” spearheaded by the talented BadBoy Studios founder Ayesha and the multi talented artist/rapper/producer RenzNero who is destined for stardom.
In the words of Ayesha, founder of BadBoy Studios RenzNiro, Dunamis and Grim showed myself, and producer Wudini, around their home town of Wythenshawe. I joined the group on set of music videos, photoshoots, and performances ahead of the release of their joint EP, 10,000 Hours. Together, we travelled across the town to places they hold dear; we found ourselves in car parks, at bus stops, and the local shops. They shared memories of their youth, both fond and otherwise, telling me of their time in Wythenshawe, and the struggles they all faced being from minority backgrounds. Although their time here has been tumultuous, there is a clear love for their home with this project, 10,000 Hours, paying homage to the town.
The exhibition is an homage to Wythenshawe depicting the realities of everyday life, illustrating the beauty of the ordinary and everyday. We are very proud to be able to support exhibitions like this at the Creative Space. It encapsulates the importance of having a multimedia performance space in Wythenshawe , where creatives have a safe space to grow and express themselves.
We managed to record an interview with Dunamis at the launch which can be found here on Mint Sounds.
Battle of the Bands
Our flagship Rock School hosted the Creative Spaces first Battle of the Bands competition. This event was once again a collaborative project delivered in conjunction with We Will Rock You Project. The night was a huge success with a 150-strong audience, 8 incredible young acts, an inspiring panel of judges including a keen supporter of the Creative Space Manchester legend, Rowetta and Rachel Waters from Brighter Sound. There was an amazing atmosphere throughout the night, it was a real celebration of young musical talent. The event also raised £500 for Music Evermore, helping them continue to provide accessible music opportunities for young people across Manchester.
Expressive Artz Youth Project:
We have added another element to the thriving youth provision in Wythenshawe, with sessions on Tuesdays 18:00-20:00. In the words of Kurtis Reid, Expressive Artz founder;
“As a Black-led organisation, we remain committed to inclusive, culturally relevant practice. We will collaborate with local schools, youth groups, and community organisations to ensure those who will benefit most can access and participate in the programme. This continuation of this project reflects our long-term commitment to providing creative, safe, and empowering spaces where young people can grow in confidence, explore their potential, and build brighter futures.
Sessions will include creative writing, self-expression, music production, DJ-ing, music engineering, and performance, with wellbeing remaining a key focus throughout. This expanded programme is informed by participant feedback and evaluation from our pilot, as well as insights from partner organisations including Reform Radio and The Prince’s Trust”.
