Manchester Museum, part of the University of Manchester, has announced an unmissable programme of events as part of its reopening celebrations. The museum has been closed to visitors since August 2021 for an ambitious transformation and it will reopen on 18 February 2023 with a mission to be more inclusive, caring and imaginative.
To mark this exciting new beginning, Professor of Public History, David Olusoga OBE, will deliver a thought-provoking lecture addressing the dilemmas facing museums in the 21st century. This event, in partnership with Creative Manchester, is part of Museum Meets, a new series that brings unique opportunities to meet and hear from extraordinary and inspiring people.
Museum Lates gives you time to experience the joy and wonder of the museum after hours, and highlights the work of artists, writers, activists, performers and others. On Wednesday 8 March, the museum will stay open to 9pm and roll out the red carpet to host a Film Night with a number of screenings in different galleries.
Museum Celebrates will showcase the incredible diversity of our city with festivals, carnivals and religious celebrations. Educators and students can visit the museum on 14 and 15 March to celebrate British Science Week. For music lovers, Rhythm Xchange on 17 and 18 March will premiere musical collaborations including J.A.V.A and Jay’s Jam with Johnny Jay and guitar legend Aziz Ibrahim, as well as headliners Gracie T and Chande. On 27 March, in the spirit of Ramadan, the month of hospitality and sharing, the museum will host an Iftar, which is an evening of food, friendship and conversation across faiths and cultures. Following this on 13 April, there will be a wonderful celebration for Vaisakhi.
Museum Wonders is where imagination and learning comes to life and there’s plenty for families to do. Play On is a series of free drop-in activities, 20 – 24 February, to keep the kids entertained with arts and crafts during school holidays. The Big Weekender focuses on Earth Day on 22 – 23 April, offering opportunities to get stuck in and have fun with objects while learning about the diversity of life on our planet.
Visitors are also reminded that free tickets to Golden Mummies of Egypt, are available now. This exhibition offers unparalleled access to the museum’s world-class Egypt and Sudan collections and Manchester is the only place in the UK where you will be able to see this stunning show.
Esme Ward, Director of Manchester Museum, said:
“We’re delighted to announce a wonderful series of events as part of our spring season. Our events and collaborations are more imaginative, caring and inclusive than ever before.
“The museum is full of incredible stories and free activities made for families, young people, students, and adults will help you make the most out of the museum and take a deep dive into some of the most fascinating objects on display.
“2023 is set to be the most exciting year in the museum’s long history and we hope as many people as possible will join the celebrations – there really is something for everyone.”
Events are free but booking tickets is recommended to guarantee entry. To find out more about upcoming events and activities, please visit manchestermuseum.co.uk.