It’s common knowledge that Manchester knows how to throw a party – even one where most of the guests had an average age younger than usual.
Factory International rang in the new year with a family rave that included dancing, kid-friendly activities and games – and a stellar soundtrack for the grown-ups.
On New Year’s Eve, The Playhouse Project took over the Hall at Aviva Studios for a family-friendly rave held at the respectable time of 3.30pm to 6pm.
Party-goers young and not so young enjoyed tunes spun by MC Kwasi – a frequent collaborator of legendary DJ Mr Scruff. There were stilt-walkers strutting their stuff, giant balloons bobbing through and children squealing in delight as foam rained down on the dancefloor.
Now January is well under way, children from across Greater Manchester can enjoy free art activities inspired by the work of renowned artist David Hockney.
Aviva Studios, built on the site of the former Granada TV Studios and now the home of Factory International, has been hosting a series of events during the Christmas holidays.
Kids can make puppets, create collages, and explore perspective with the help of artists Toubie Jack, Amanda Logan, Holly Langford, and Arisha-Jane Marsh.
Other activities include mono-printing with Boilerhouse and creating a zine inspired by the colours and techniques in the Hockney exhibition with SOUP.
These drop-in sessions, happening at The Social, Aviva Studios, do not require booking and are completely free.
David Hockney: Bigger & Closer (not smaller & further away) (Image: Aviva Studios)
The activities have been running from December 14 to January 18 and are inspired by the winter exhibition, David Hockney: Bigger & Closer (not smaller & further away).
Upcoming events include Arisha-Jane Marsh’s session on January 12, and Boilerhouse’s mono printing sessions on Saturday, January 11 and Saturday, January 18.
Youngsters will have the chance to explore and engage with Hockney’s artistic style in a fun and interactive way.
For more information and to keep up to date with future events, visit factoryinternational.org