Northern Greats: Summer in the Square

The masterminds behind programming the Great Northern Warehouse both inside and out, Future Artists, have after a successful 2014 been allowed to continue their curatorship into 2015, moulding the space in ways that frequently surprise and delight. As they're now looking ahead to summer, they got in touch to fill us in on their forthcoming plans. 

Having been awarded an extension to your time at the Great Northern, what lessons have you taken from last year and put into action this year?
Last year was all about making the Great Northern Warehouse a destination for experiencing 'real' Manchester culture, across food, drink and art. Being given the chance to continue building an audience for this is fantastic. Each week we get busier and busier, and to be recognised for making it happen is great.

Let's talk about your plans for the summer: one of the main focuses is the outside square in front of the Great Northern. What do you like about the space?
It's going to be the go-to destination this summer. All our bars and restaurants have amazing outside spaces and the amphitheatre is a sun trap – we host large-scale events on this square, too. We're sponsoring both Manchester Day Parade and Manchester International Festival, so they'll be here; we'll also be hosting a range of health and lifestyle activities from yoga to military fitness. There's going to be lots happening.

Have you taken inspiration from anywhere or anyone in particular while planning your summer programme?
The inspiration comes from the fact that we're like a mini-village, with communities both on-site and passing through daily. The amphitheatre is a great place to relax in the summer for free; we respect this Zen space and want to welcome everyone in.

Can you tell us a bit more about Manchester Day Parade (14 June)?
We wanted to make sure that the Parade had a central hub in the city. Last year they created a giant game of snakes and ladders in the amphitheatre and had a dance-off outside Lucha Libre. This year's theme is 'Game On,' so expect games for all the family, and art happenings beyond that. It's all about making sure that Manchester has a space for spontaneity.

You also have plans for the summer solstice on 21 June; what can we expect there?
Rumour has it the GNW is built on energy lines, and so, like Stonehenge, we welcome the longest day of the year and connect to the earth via yoga and spiritual awakening. Pop down, watch the sun rise and get involved.

We've been enjoying catching up with different residents of the Great Northern over the last few issues, including Grindsmith coffee. Who else can we look forward to hearing from over the next few months? And who might join them?
Breakout, who are a bit like the Crystal Maze, have popped up; B.EAT STREET is opening up as an events space; Cocktails in the City is coming to the Great Northern too. We're also in the early stages of doing something with the mews area, which is a big open-plan street on site.

What else can we experience at the Great Northern that's unique to the city?
Central Working are hosting artists every month in a pop-up gallery on site, and the Almost Famous terrace will be live all summer so you can get your burger fix in the sun. Events-wise, keep checking our website.

And, finally, if you had to summarise in just a few words: what can people expect from a Future Artists event this summer?
We're here to make you feel good and make you happy.