Vote for your cultural hero
THE shortlist for the Manchester People’s Culture Award supported by the Manchester Evening News has been revealed.
The award is one of 12 categories in the Manchester Culture Awards, launched this year by Manchester Council to celebrate outstanding names within the city’s cultural sector.
The People’s Culture Award recognises dedication and commitment to culture in Manchester and it is special as the winner is chosen by our readers.
We will be handing out the award at the inaugural awards dinner at the Etihad Stadium on November 14.
Here is the distinguished list of individuals and businesses from across the cultural sector in Greater Manchester for you to choose from. Esme Ward Esme is Director of Manchester Museum. She has created volunteering opportunities, imaginative partnerships and advocated for innovative arts and health initiatives. Her vision is that the museum becomes the most imaginative, inclusive and caring in the country as well as a powerful inspiration for people to learn. Tony Walsh Tony performed his poem This Is The Place at the vigil following the Arena attack - his powerful performance perfectly encapsulating the spirit of Manchester. The poem has since been used to raise more than £170,000 for Greater Manchester charities, including the survivors of the attack and the families of those killed. Liz O’Neill Liz is CEO and Artistic Director of Z-arts - an arts and creative hub for young people, with a theatre, gallery, music studio and rehearsal spaces. She has a huge commitment to children and young people, always ensuring that excellence is a priority. Z-arts is rooted in the local community, whilst also reaching out to national and international cultural organisations. Linda Brogan Linda collected the memories of those who attended the legendary Reno Club in Moss Side. She then secured funding to have the club professionally excavated. The artefacts discovered were given their rightful place in the city’s cultural heritage with an exhibition at the Whitworth Art Gallery. Stephen Evans Stephen has made a huge impact on the Wythenshawe area. Among many other projects, he organises free walks in Northenden focusing on the area’s rich history and culture. He also founded Now-Forever Heritage CIC, a non-profit organisation that promotes heritage and history in Wythenshawe. Video Jam Video Jam curate, commission and present films with musical accompaniment. They work with large cultural institutions whilst supporting young and emerging artists. Part of the grassroots Manchester arts scene they have presented over 50 events and projects across the UK and beyond. Clayton Hall Living History Museum Clayton Hall is a Grade 2 listed building in Clayton Park. Following renovation, Clayton Hall, or the ‘Old Lady’ as she is affectionately known, has become the centre of the community. Volunteers enthusiastically share their knowledge with visitors. What started as a building lacking in love has become a tourist attraction in inner-city Manchester. Dave Moutrey Dave Moutrey is the Director of HOME and has been shaping culture in the city for over 35 years. He strongly advocates that art is for everybody and, under his leadership, HOME has quickly become a vital cultural centre that it is welcoming to all.