On 16 August 1819, more than 60,000 people flooded into St Peter’s Field from all over Manchester. They came in peace, united in their passion for the right to vote. But as the speeches began, armed troops on horseback charged into the crowd, killing 15 and injuring more than 600. The Peterloo Massacre was a pivotal moment in British history, a landmark on our road to democracy. And now, MIF is marking its 200th anniversary with an extraordinary day of performance, poetry and music.
The evening sees the world premiere of a major new piece of music by composer Emily Howard, one of our most original musical voices, and writer Michael Symmons Roberts, winner of the Costa Poetry Award. Both an elegy to the fallen and a celebration of our city, the work will be performed at The Bridgewater Hall by the Â鶹Éç Philharmonic and a huge massed chorus featuring the Â鶹Éç Singers and three Hallé choirs.
Commissioned by Manchester International Festival, the Â鶹Éç Philharmonic and Â鶹Éç Radio 3. Produced by Manchester International Festival and the Â鶹Éç Philharmonic. Supported by Paul Hamlyn Foundation as part of My Festival.