Open Bridges: We are very pleased to get a mention in The Times today.
“Just occasionally things go right and the cynics are confounded. There were plenty of the latter around when run down and much maligned Hull was announced as City Of Culture for 2017. Yet with the year two-thirds over, the results are jaw dropping… and arguably the best is yet to come. The city will be immersed in dance events culminating with the Royal Ballet reopening Hull’s magnificent neoclassical New Theatre after its £16 million refit and… the Turner Prize comes to the splendidly restored Ferens Art Gallery.
Those are institution-led events but just as eye catching have been quirky local offerings, laced with Hull’s salty brand of wry humour. For instance two local musicians have somehow contrived to have all 13 of the city’s bridges raised or blocked at the symbolic time of 20.17 next Friday. Why? Well, historically Hull has played a big role in campaigns for social and political freedom (notably the abolition of the slave trade), but the event’s organisers argue that you only truly appreciate freedom if you are deprived of it. So for a couple of minutes – with the compliance of the council and police – the freedom to cross the city will be withdrawn.” Richard Morrison The Times Arts Column 15.09.17
All 13 bridges over the River Hull closed at 20.17 on the autumnal equinox 2017
Freedom? or Freedom Withheld?
Open Bridges is a whole tapestry of threads. It’s a celebration of the lifeblood of the city, the River Hull and its 13 movable bridges – more than any other city. Beautiful historic vessels representing three centuries – 18th century HMS Pickle, 19th century Humber Keel Comrade and 20th century MV Syntan mustered on the River Hull, met on the Humber by powerful 21st century tugs from SMS Towage and Svitzer. Open Bridges is an exploration of the notion of freedom during the City of Culture’s Freedom Season. The culmination of Open Bridges – the live world premiere of John Stead’s new musical work, Moments in Time was magical. And the city momentarily split in two – for the first time ever.
Rich & Lou