The McManus: Dundee’s Art Gallery & Museum is getting ready to host their biggest day of the year on Saturday 20 May as part of this year’s Festival of Museums, where they will be celebrating 150 years at the museum by telling ‘The People’s Story’. There is a packed programme of entertainment planned where event goers can join museum staff and partners for an exciting day and evening of activities and experiences.
Highlights include Pop Up Performances from ZeroThree15 Theatre Company where the galleries’ paintings and sculptures will come to life. Look out for the ‘Twa Auld Wifies’, ‘The Highlander’ and Queen Victoria and Prince Albert aka ‘Vic & Bert’. There will also be the chance to find out more about the current learning and engagement project, ‘The People’s Story’, meet the curators and see a special performance of ‘Juteopolis’ from artists Lise Olsen and Lada Wilson, which is inspired by Dundee’s rich maritime heritage.
In the relaxing surroundings of the McManus Café there will be an eclectic blend of archive film, performance and conversation. The Dundee Comic Collaborators, Dundee singer/songwriter Syann, powerful and passionate women’s choir Loadsaweeminsingin’ and local poet Derek Meikleham will all make appearances throughout the day.
The McManus 150 bus will be situated outside the museum where visitors can jump on board for museum and gallery themed story sessions. A flagship green Corporation bus will also be present where the Xplore Dundee and Museum of Transport teams will be sharing Dundee’s transport heritage through archive materials and pop up talks.
The evening sees a fully booked promenade performance entitled ‘A Night at the Museum’ specially created for the 150th Anniversary of The McManus by ZeroThree15 Theatre Company, plus more entertainment from Syann in the Café Bar.
Christine Millar, Section Leader for Learning & Engagement at The McManus, said
“This festival is one of our favourite times of the year and is a great opportunity to see The McManus really buzzing with excitement. I would encourage everyone to get along and join in the fun. It really is going to be a fantastic day and evening for all ages.”
Joanne Orr, Chief Executive of Museums Galleries Scotland, said
“Festival of Museums is about igniting imaginations and celebrating creativity whilst showcasing Scotland’s wealth of culture and heritage. Our packed programme features engaging, surprising and entertaining events over three action-packed days in museums across Scotland. Get involved and come and see what Scotland’s museums have to offer.”
The festival’s daytime event is free and there is no need to book. It will run from 10am until 4.30pm with a warm-up from 9.45am led by, young people’s drum group, Kirkton Beats.
For more information on the running order please visit www.leisureandculturedundee.com
and look out for more on social media @mcmanusdundee #McManus150 #FoM2017.
