The Edge Theatre and Arts Centre in Chorlton is throwing a major birthday party to mark 15 years as an arts hub, while also launching a new community heritage project. The free event, scheduled for August 29, will feature live music, workshops, and entertainment for local residents.
Celebrating 15 Years of Creativity
Visitors to the celebration can enjoy performances from a street band, participate in a live jam session, and test their film knowledge in a special cinema quiz hosted by actor John Thomson. The event marks the official start of a year-long heritage scheme funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Uncovering 140 Years of History
The heritage project will see local volunteers act as heritage detectives, working to uncover and record stories from the venue's 140-year history. The focus will be on capturing memories from groups often left out of traditional history projects, including people with learning disabilities.
Artistic Director's Vision
Janine Waters, artistic director, said: "This is a really special moment for The Edge. We're celebrating 15 wonderful years as an arts centre, but we're also recognising that we're part of a much longer story that belongs to the whole community."
She continued: "The building has witnessed 140 years of local life, change and creativity, and through this project we want to uncover those stories, preserve them and share them with future generations."
Inclusive and Community-Focused
Waters added: "We're particularly excited that people from all backgrounds and experiences will be able to take part, learn new skills and contribute their own memories and perspectives."
She concluded: "The Edge Fest birthday celebrations are about looking back at everything that's happened here, while also looking forward to the next chapter. We hope people will come along, join the celebrations and help us begin this exciting journey of discovery together."
Free Drinks and Further Details
As a special thank you, the venue is offering 140 free drinks to visitors who sign up to its mailing list during the event. To claim a free drink and sign up, visit www.edgetheatre.co.uk.
