Celebrate the People of Hull this Spring

 

As the new Roots and Routes season kicks off in Hull and the second part of the celebrations for UK City of Culture begins, there’s plenty to get up to and explore. These next few months will celebrate the city and its people as international and unique. Here are our five top things to do this spring.

Extraordinary Orchard Park Parade

On Saturday 6 May, there will be a vibrant parade passing through the streets of Orchard Park Estate. You may see creatures on wheels, stilt walkers and huge puppets, and hear live bands and musicians.

If you want to get involved in the costume making and creativity, head to one of the free workshops at St Michael’s Youth Project. There’s a list of dates and times on the Hull 2017 website.

Extraordinary Orchard Park Parade

Raft of Medusa

This multisensory exhibition running till 17 June at Humber Street Gallery references the makeshift raft constructed by the crew of the Medusa, and Théodore Géricault’s romantic depiction of the shipwreck.

Meanwhile, the inspiring display ties in with the current and very real refugee crisis the world is facing. We’ve seen thousands of people embark on perilous journeys across our oceans to find a safe haven. During the exhibit, you will be able to experience

Raft of Medusa © Lucy + Jorge Orta
© Lucy + Jorge Orta

Amy

Last year marked the 75th anniversary of the death of Amy Johnson, the city’s flying heroine. She was the first woman to ever fly solo from England to Australia, making her one of the most influential and inspirational women of the twentieth century.

In tribute, the Guildhall will host a concert version of the 1975 musical that narrates the incredible life of this Hull-born woman. This takes place on 3 May at 7:30pm.

Amy

Celebrating the Bantu People

Hull is home to many Bantu people, who found sanctuary in the city after migrating from the south of the equator. This event is an opportunity to learn more about their intriguing culture, creativity and food.

From April until October, there will be a monthly event held at one of the many venues across the city, including St Martin’s Church Hall, Hymers College, Wawne Village Hall and Priory Baptist Church. It’s a chance to sample new flavours, learn Bantu crafts and experience exciting music and dance.

Celebrating Bantu people

Washed Up Car-go

Hull School of Art and Design graduate Chris Dobrowolski has returned to the city he tried to escape to create an amazing collection of artworks. The Deep’s car park plays host to this interesting art installation until 4 June.

In his student days, Chris collected the driftwood from Hessle Foreshore, built a raft and tried to set sail for home. The conceptual artist is has brought the beach to land vehicles to make Washed Up Car-go. The extraordinary piece consists of three ordinary cars, the only difference is that their interiors have been replaced by sand and plastic items.

Exploring themes of pollution, consumerism and maritime culture, this exhibit is a must-see. Afterwards, pop into the submarium to see wonderful oceanic creatures and penguins.

If you do head to any of these fantastic events during the Roots and Routes season, let us know by tagging us in your photos on Facebook and Twitter.