What do you think when you hear the word library?

You probably don’t think DJ workshops, beat-making classes, dancing and free food!

A group of young people from Greater Manchester have been working together, supported by Reform Radio and Creative City, to re-imagine the conventionally quiet space of the library. Over several weeks they have devised a programme of free, interactive and noisy activities which will take over Wythenshawe Forum Library on Saturday 15 Feb, 12-4pm.

Following on from last year’s hugely successful, Stitch Festival, Out of Hours, and AFROJAM; Rhythmshawe is the fourth event in our Festival in My Neighbourhood series, a programme supporting Greater Manchester residents host inspiring arts events for their own communities.

Activities on the day will include song-writing, beat-making and DJing workshops, as well as an opportunity to present your favourite song live on the radio!

Alongside these activities, there will be live music performances, dancing, and free delicious food on offer.

Sheereen, one of the young people organising the event said “It’s been nothing like I expected. I’ve never worked in a group like this before but we’ve become close friends and it’s been amazing!”

Aisha Williams, who is looking after the open deck section of the day told us she’d never done anything like this before, “It’s been really nice to work with people that I would probably never even meet normally. I’ve never heard of a festival in a library before!”

We are delighted to be partnering with Reform Radio and Creative City on this project celebrating libraries as places to enjoy the arts and get creative on your doorstep for free.

Rachel Roger, Director at Reform Radio said, “It’s been fantastic to work collaboratively with Creative City and MIF to create this special one–off celebration. Working alongside experts from within these arts organisation has added such value to the experience, skills development and outcomes of the programme. The young people involved have created an exceptional body of work. We’re so excited to see it all brought to life on 15 Feb.”

Creative Spaces’ Creative Producer, Beth Powell, said: “Working with this group has been fantastic! They have great energy and brilliant ideas. I’m really proud of the hard work and commitment they are putting into this event and their community spirit! It’s going to be a really fun, vibrant and sensory experience for the community to enjoy!”