Way Above the Houses

Set to be an extraordinary performance show to include aerial acts, local voices and local dancers with choreography incorporating moving lights and illuminated and colourful umbrellas.

Commissioned by Quays Culture and in partnership with Cirque Bijou, Way Above the Houses is a unique arts project, inspired by the people of Salford.

Taking place on Saturday 11th June at MediaCity, with thanks to Lottery funding from Arts Council England, preparations have already started for this spectacular one-off event that will feature stories and words from local people living in Salford.

Way Above the Houses will start outside The Lowry with a performance featuring local dancers, led by experienced choreographer Lizzie Klotz, creating a kaleidoscope of moving lights, using illuminated and colourful umbrellas. From The Lowry, performers and audiences will process over the bridges, past the Imperial War Museum, arriving in MediaCity’s Piazza for an extraordinary display of aerial acts, community performances and local voices.

The project is being shaped by stories gathered from local people about what Salford means to them, through a series of unique, reflective and inspiring workshops. These stories will be woven together by critically acclaimed musician Ted Barnes, who is writing new music especially for the piece.  A community choir will perform the music live as part of the show, brought together by Ordsall Singers’ Choir Leader, Jeff Borradaille.

Way Above The Houses will be the second time Quays Culture have partnered Cirque Bijou at MediaCity. The two performances on Saturday 11th June at 5.30pm and 9pm, will allow audiences to watch this illuminating and spectacular show in daylight and darkness.

The event is FREE to attend, and the show will have BSL interpretation - both live and virtually, via the big screen in MediaCity’s Piazza.