Northern Exposure
Here and now
TAKE PRIDE
15–25 AUGUST
The Canal Street area is pretty fabulous any time you visit, but it really struts its stuff for Manchester Pride in August. This year marks the extravaganza’s 18th birthday so expect a few extra special touches.
There are stacks of events taking place from 15th August but it really gets into full swing for the Big Weekend street party at the August bank holiday. After the Parade winds its way through the city on Saturday afternoon everyone heads back down to Canal Street for the music and all-round shameless hedonism.
See manchesterpride.com.
REBEL FASHION
NOW–21 SEPTEMBER
She styled the Sex Pistols, her clothes have turned British fashion upside down and she’s even gone knickerless to see the Queen. Vivienne Westwood is a rebel national treasure and, after touring the world, the V&A’s exhibition of her 30-year career is coming home.
The Millennium Galleries in Sheffield will give fashionistas one last chance to see over 150 of her iconic outfits and accessories — from fab corsets and evening gowns to the nine-inch platforms which made Naomi Campbell take a tumble on the Paris catwalk.
However outrageous her designs, Dame Vivienne has stayed true to her British roots so do the patriotic thing — put on your best threads and head down there. Or get into the punk spirit and dye your hair green — and go commando!
SLEEP WITH A STATUE
15 AUGUST–15 SEPTEMBER
If you like some Earl Grey in the morning, this will definitely float your boat. From mid August to mid September you can stay in a temporary, but fully functioning, luxury hotel room.
It will be built around the larger-than-life statue which crowns the 130 foot-high monument to the earl — who served as prime minister as well as giving his name to a type of tea.
The ensuite room comes with reception and room service, and you will be served a full breakfast under your silent roommate’s stoney gaze.
Even if you don’t manage to book in, the room will be open to visitors during the day, and so you’ll still get a chance to check out the amazing panoramic views of the Toon. See hotelmonument.org.uk.
What’s next — a nightclub on the Angel of the North?
SURPRISE! SURPRISE!
4–7 SEPTEMBER
We wouldn’t normally recommend something when we’re not sure what it is, but going on past form, it’ll be worth going to Liverpool between 4th and 7th September to see whatever it is that super events organisers Artichoke have cooked up for the Capital of Culture.
In May 2006 central London came to a standstill as a million people jammed the streets to see the Sultan’s Elephant — a stupendously lifelike, 10-metre-high wooden marionnette.
This year Artichoke have set up a Telectroscope — a device for looking down an imaginary tunnel from London to New York — but Liverpool will be their piece de resistance.
Secrecy and anticipation are both part of the experience so keep an eye on the special web-site (willyoufindit.co.uk) and prepare to be astonished.
Would you like to leave a comment ?
You must be logged in to leave a message.