MIF brings together world-renowned artists from different art forms and backgrounds to create dynamic, innovative and forward-thinking new work, staged in venues across Greater Manchester.
MIF19 takes place from 4 – 21 July 2019, with artists from across the globe creating an enormous variety of new work in spaces throughout the city.
MIF19 Opening Event Acts:
Yoko Ono
Cathedral Gardens, Corporation St, Manchester M4 3BG
Thursday 4th July, 6pm
Yoko is among the worlds most renowned and respected artists, her new commission is the first major work she has created for the City of Manchester.
Yoko Ono opens the event for MIF 19, as she invites us to gather together in Cathedral Gardens and sends a message of peace to the world.
Bells for Peace follows the success in 2017 as thousands of diverse voices and a peoples orchestra of bells from home and abroad will ring out for peace, and welcome the world to Manchester.
TREE – Created by Idris Elba and Kwame Kwei – Armah
Manchester’s International Festival
Upper Campfield Market Hall, Manchester, M3 4FN
Thursday 4th – Wednesday 10th July, 8pm
Tree takes audience on a thrilling journey in search of the soul and spirit of contemporary South Africa. Created by Idris Elba whose album Mi Mandela provides the soundtrack, and Kwame Kwei Armah, the new Artistic Director of London’s Young Vic.
This major world premier production takes place in one of Manchester’s most atmospheric spaces, in the round within Upper Campfield Market Hall.
Idris and Kwame’s new work features music, dance, and film combined with an exciting and dynamic cast to explore the past, present and future of a country at a crossroads – all through the eyes of one young man on a journey of healing.
Skepta @ Manchester International Festival (secret location)
Wednesday 17th July – Friday 19th July 2019
Held in a secret location in Manchester, Dystopia987 is a waking dream that features Skepta’s singular vision of the future: deep, dark, radical and riveting.
Dystopia987 presents a live set from Skepta along with guest appearances from individually picked Dj’s and performers. It’s a journey into eternity, a future riven with uncertainty and fear but rich in wonder and possibility.
Skepta has become one of the most significant British artists in music since emerging as a producer and MC in 2004. After being nominated for a BRIT Award and winning The Mercury Prize, he has built a diverse audience through both recordings and live performances, his constant influence is felt throughout contemporary culture.
MIF19 Members priority booking opens Mon 29 October 10am, public booking opens Thursday 1st November 10am
