Liverpool - European Capital of Culture 2008
So, after a five-year build up, IT'S HERE... Liverpool is the Cultural Capital of Europe 2008 (proudly sharing the title with Stavanger, Norway).
On New Years' Eve it suddenly hit me that tomorrow, Liverpool would be the Cultural Capital of Europe. So much expectation, so much build up and so many opportunities. I was in Zagreb over the new year and felt distanced from the celebrations that would herald this momentous year.
I have no doubt that the year will be a great success. There are many arts organisations that will produce excellent projects and programmes to ensure a varied and exciting year for local people and for visitors from the UK and the rest of the world. The Culture Company team has also worked enthusiastically amidst many controversies and setbacks. They should be commended for their efforts.
As you enter Liverpool's city centre from every direction, you will be aware of its status as Cultural Capital of Europe 2008, but are visitors to Manchester and other cities aware...? I returned to the UK via Manchester Airport and saw no sign that only 30 miles away; the city of Liverpool was celebrating this accolade. Where are the banners and 08 logos? They should be in the entrance hall of this and other airports...
And what of 2009, 2010 and beyond...?
My research during my Grand Tour has left me feeling apprehensive about Liverpool’s future. We are way ahead of other cities in our long term strategic planning, but are we really prepared for the future...? I think not. I will also be continuing my research visiting more cities that have been Cultural Capitals. This additional research will be supported by Impacts 08, the company charged with the task of evaluating the impact of 2008 on Liverpool. In the meantime, I've got a year long of programme of activity to work on, details of which can be found at www.hope-street.org
Happy New Year. I wish you an enjoyable and memorable time if you visit Liverpool.
