Liverpool - May 2008
Streets Ahead provided three days of street theatre and spectacle. It was like being in Manchester a few years ago. Streets Ahead was transposed from there to here. Three days and now what? Will it leave a legacy? Perhaps if someone had had the foresight a few years ago to deliver a training programme for local, national and international performers in readiness for 2008, there'd have been a build up and a legacy - as well as a year long programme of activity in the city... Such a programme would have brought the world's best street acts and outdoor spectacle and made a real impact over several years, rather than just one weekend. (Any future Cultural Capitals interested in such a programme, please contact me or alan@hope-street.org - we have the programme and the ideas...) Some highlights: from France, Cachuette's shopfront entertainment, and from the UK, Fraser Hooper and Avanti Display. Hope Street's 20 emerging artist commenced their 6-month Apprenticeship Programme, certainly one of my highlights for 2008. They are the next generation of artists in the city and, although our 20-year history is relevant, what is important is what they contribute to the ever-changing landscape. They're an exceptional group and will make a difference to the arts in this city in the years that follow. Check out what they are doing by visiting www.hope-street.org
