Is Manchester ready for these two worlds to come together – even if they may not be poles apart as many originally thought? Can the cultural be at home with the commercial and vice versa?
“It already is,” according to Cllr Rahman.
“Manchester already exists in a cultural exchange with the private sector. Now, it’s about amplifying this, involving more businesses, making more of what we have. It’s not just the hard cash we need.” His call to action, echoed by the room, was clear: “businesses, there’s a role for you in this recovery” – whether that be by offering up office space; writing a funding application; or dedicating time, advice or expertise. Covid has left an indelible mark on Greater Manchester’s cultural landscape, but it’s also woken people up to the realisation that we can and must be doing more to protect the experiences, individuals and institutions that shape our city and make it so special.
In any case, as Greg put it, “going back to normal life is not an option.”
And, if our audience’s responses are anything to go by, this won’t be the case:
Nancy Hopkins, marketing and audience development consultant, shared how she thinks “we have a real opportunity to change how cultural institutions function in Manchester post-pandemic, and for this reason I’m excited.
Not My Business?
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