A year to Participate
Participation in all its forms is central to '08.
"If one had to say one thing that swung it for Liverpool, it would have to be there was a greater sense there that the whole city is involved in the bid and behind the bid." Sir Jeremy Isaacs, Chair, Independent Advisory Panel for the UK nomination for European Capital of Culture 2008, June 4 2003
Engagement was the cornerstone of Liverpool's bid to become European Capital of Culture, and participation has been placed firmly at the heart of the programme for 2008. Whether taking part in a dance workshop ahead of the Viennese Balls or creating an event on your terms through the Open Culture programme, Liverpool has created a platform for people to be exceptional.
The Liverpool Culture Company is overseeing the largest public and community arts scheme in Europe- Creative Communities. Through partnerships with a number of public and private sector bodies the four-year programme is delivering an £11m grassroots programme ensuring that the 2008 celebrations resonate in every corner of the city.
In schools, community centres and cultural venues across Liverpool Creative Communities is supporting partnership agendas, developing artist sustainability and improving access to the arts.
No other European Capital of Culture has attempted such ambitious levels of participation; the scale and reach of the programme make it unique. At the core of Creative Communities is a simple aim - to harness the creativity of Liverpool's people by making creativity an integral component of everyday life
