Museum is pioneering engagement in the arts
THE Pioneers Museum on Toad Lane is firmly established on the ‘must see’ list for people visiting our borough from around the world.
It is also taking an increasingly innovative approach to engaging local people of all ages and across our diverse cultures in finding out more about their cultural heritage.
Examples of this approach include Everyday Austerity and Tea Time Traditions.
Dr Sarah Hall from Manchester University created a touring exhibition about austerity and recently asked the museum to showcase it for her.
Everyday Austerity is a collection of drawings and materials on living in and through austerity, based on two years of ethnographic research.
As previously reported on this page, Tea Time Traditions - The Cultural Significance of Tea is underway, led by Shamila Irim, Aysha Roohi and Cat Jessop.
It is a celebration of diversity through the universal language of tea, running in conjunction with the Tea and Biscuits exhibition.
With the long school summer holidays looming, there is a great programme on offer.
Pioneer Wednesdays: The sessions will be run from 1pm to 3pm every Wednesday and will have a charge of £3 per child with a maximum of 20 spaces. Tickets can be booked at www.eventbrite .co.uk.
Ready Teddy Tea Party will be held on Wednesday, August 2, 1pm to 3pm (for ages five to 11). Bring your teddy along to the museum for a picnic. Make biscuits, decorate your picnic plate and learn how to knit a scarf for your soft toy.
All children must be accompanied by an adult. Book at www.eventbrite. co.uk.
Time Travel with Professor Jigget on Wednesday, August 16, 1pm to 3pm (for ages seven to 11). The unforgettable Professor Jigget will take you on a time travel journey. Together you can make your very own time travel machine and go back to 1844.
All children must be accompanied by an adult. Messy play involved, please make sure children wear appropriate clothing. Book at www. eventbrite.co.uk.
Hard Times History will be held on Wednesday, August 30, 1pm to 3pm (for ages five to 11). Experience what life was like for the children of Rochdale in 1844. Go to school with Mr Meredith and make your very own pair of clogs.
All children must be accompanied by an adult. Book at www.eventbrite. co.uk.
To find out more, contact Clare Hirst, assistant museum manager at Rochdale Pioneers Museum. Call