EuroFestival Lineup 2023 - A celebration of arts and culture from Liverpool to Ukraine

With Eurovision a mere three weeks away, Liverpool is preparing for one of the biggest events to ever land over on the waters of the Albert Dock. One such preparation is the EuroFestival, a celebration of arts, culture and music from Liverpool to the Ukraine. 

The EuroFestival is set to run from the 1st May, to the 14th May, with 24 stunning commissions, 19 of which are a collaboration between UK and Ukrainian artists, that will transform the city as fans from across the world descend on Liverpool.

Eurofestival events range from cabarets and immersive art experiences to musical steps, poetry and photography. 

Check out the full lineup below. 

National Museums X Eurovision

May 1st - May 14th / 

Location: World Museum, William Brown St, Liverpool L3 8EN + Museum of Liverpool Pier Head, Mann Island, Liverpool L3 1DG

Both the World Museum, and Museum of Liverpool have a nice little roster of events to carry you through the Eurovision celebrations from a musical staircase to an AR virtual experience where you can see and hear iconic Eurovision moments on the Eurovision walk of fame. There are activities for all age, making a visit to the EuroFestival events at the national museums a family affair.

Both museums are also open for live screenings of the Eurovision final, just in case you didn't manage to snag a ticket.

Protect The Beats

May 1st - May 14th 

Location: TBC

Standing in solidarity with the people of Ukraine, Protect The Beats, will be a large scale public artwork featuring a well known local Liverpool landmark (yet to be confirmed which one) and over 2500 sandbags. Embedded into the artwork will be a short film that illustrates how music remains at the beating heart of Ukrainian culture offering a sense of hope, joy and defiance.

Created by Whispered Tales in collaboration with the Ukrainian musician Denys Kashchei the film features a range of footage from
Opera Singers to Drum and Bass illustrating the power of music to unite people even in the darkest of times.

The Big Eurovision Read

May 1st - May 14th 

Location: Reading Den Pop Up (TBC)

Working in partnership with Liverpool Libraries, the Reading Agency, invites everyone to get reading and inspired this Eurovision. Sharing an inspiring reading list full of music and Eurovision related suggestions like Rachel Joyce's, The Music Shop and The Musical Truth by Jeffrey Boakye, there's something for everyone to read. You can even throw in your own creative suggestions!

The Reading Agency is also set to host a variety of reading workshops and a talk series to discuss the books further at the Reading Den pop up. A great event for the bookworms amongst you. 

With Fire And Rage

May 1st - May 14th 

Location: City Wide

With this immersive audio experience, brought to you by Veronika Skliarova from Parade-Fest & Zoe Lafferty from Artists On The Frontline, you can discover the stories of artists on the frontline in Ukraine as you walk through the streets of Liverpool. With Fire and Rage combines testimony with photography, visual art, poetry and music. 

Narratives take you on some incredible journeys from concerts in metro stations to air raids, to rescuing artworks out of cities as rockets fall to the ground. 

All you need is a smartphone and headphones to explore the powerful role creativity plays in the face of invasion

Sound Of Freedom

May 1st - May 14th 

Location Tempest Hey Building, Tithebarn St, Liverpool L2 2DT

Described by curator, Katya Taylor as piece that "focuses on cooperation between Ukraine and the world at all political, social and cultural levels", the Sound of Freedom mural is the result of a fruitful collaboration between Ukrainian street artist Somari and British street artist Neil Keating. 

The artwork explores the cultural identity of nations through music, celebrating diversity, talent and creativity.

Queerovision

May 1st - May 14th 

Location: City Wide 

From Drag Kings to Scouse Queens, LGBTQ+ music to local Activist Visionaries, First Take independent film company, will be capturing the entirety of Eurovision and its celebrations through the queer lense. From sharing short form video content on their social platforms, and daily breaking coverage of Eurovision events and happenings, will culminate in the creation of a Queerovision documentary film. 

First Take will explore queer identity, community, politics and music, and platform Queer Scouse voices in a once-in-a-lifetime history-making Festival Wrap Film.

Dialogues

May 1st - May 14th

Location: The Bluecoat, 8 School Ln, Liverpool L1 3BX

Liverpool artist Ellie Hoskins, and Ukrainian artist Alevtina Kakhidze are set to showcase their stunning work with humorous takes on life as they observe the world around them at one of Liverpool's oldest buildings, the Bluecoat. 

As part of Dialogues, Alvetina Kakhidze will also present a special performance combining elements of stand-up comedy.

Soloveiko Songbird

May 1st - May 14th

Location: City Wide

The Soloveiko Songbird, known as the Nightingale in English, is the national bird of Ukraine, and is also the symbol of happiness.

12 unique birds, representing 24 regions in Ukraine and the autonomous Republic of Crimea will be dotted around the city for the public to find and learn of the stories behind them. The Soloveiko songbirds allow for musical discovery and interpretations of each homeland that they represent.  

Izyum To Liverpool

May 1st - May 19th 

Location: Liverpool Cathedral, St James Mt, Church of England Cathedral of the Diocese of Liverpool, St James Rd, Liverpool L1 7AZ

Take yourself on a poignant train journey with this multi-channel video installation from Ukrainian artist Katya Buchatska. Filmed in real-time, this is an extraordinary window into the journey of escape many Ukrainians have taken since the full-scale Russian invasion in February 2022. 

Illustrating just how quickly normal life can change, Izyum to Liverpool shines a light on liberated Ukrainian cities, where buildings have been destroyed by bomb shelling and artillery fire, as well as offering views of apparently stiller Western cities. The incredibly moving artwork pays homage to the spirit and resilience of the Ukrainian people. 

The People's Flag

May 1st - TBC

Location: Culture Liverpool Digital Platforms

The People's Flag is a mass participation film focusing on arts and culture across Liverpool in celebration of Eurovision, the film will be available to watch online. 

Mass Movement Director Jeanefer Jean-Charles MBE and local choreographers Lisi Perry and Grace Goulding have invited the public to be part of this exciting film project, designed to create a unique, warm welcome to all Eurovision-comers.

Chernobyldorf

May 1st - May 2nd

Location: Invisible Wind Factory, 3 Regent Rd, Liverpool L3 7DS

Chernobyldorf is an archaeological opera based in a post apocalyptic fantasy, which combines folk and classical singing with physical theatre, dance, unique musical instruments and cinematic video-novels.

Inspired by the impact of nuclear power on the world, the opera follows the descendants of a post-society, wandering amongst the ruins of the nuclear power plants, abandoned churches, theatres and galleries, they try to recreate the lost civilisation through archeological performances rituals, universal symbols and signs.

The event is free, although you still need to book a ticket, which you can do here.

A Place Of Hope

May 2nd - May 11th

Location: Unity Theatre, 1 Hope Pl, Liverpool L1 9BG

Poignantly located on a street called Hope Place, for two weeks Unity’s iconic venue will transform into a Ukrainian hub of activity to become A Place of Hope. 

Throughout the two-weeks, audiences can also enjoy a night of Ukrainian poetry, panel discussions, creative workshops, a walking trail from Open Eye Gallery and extended exhibition from Kyiv photographer Anton Shebetko on the queer history of Ukraine. There is also the opportunity to come together for Hope Table, a unique dining experience building community and exchanging cultures. 

All of the events for A Place of Hope are free, but require tickets, which can ordered here. 

Late At Tate: The Spirit Of Eurovision

May 4th 

Location: Tate Liverpool, Royal Albert Dock, Liverpool L3 4BB

This special Late At Tate evening is set to be an evening of celebration of the power of music, creativity and diversity. The evening is packed full of performances, music, fashion, gallery talks, and even a cabaret! Late at Tate Liverpool: The Spirit of Eurovision promises to be an unforgettable experience providing an opportunity to come together, have fun, and celebrate the countdown to the Eurovision Song Contest 2023. 

Land & Sky, Home & Dreams

May 5th

Location: TBC

Land & Sky, Home & Dreams promises to be an atmospheric performance between Liverpool and Ukrainian school children, united by the art of simultaneous kite flying. Go Fly Your Kite will host a variety of kite design workshops in Liverpool whilst in Ukraine, Junior Academy of Sciences will facilitate workshops working with young people across four cities. 

They will come together with schools from Liverpool City Region, to creatively illustrate their dreams and wishes onto their kites. 

And then they fly.

The Blue and Yellow Submarine Parade

May 5th

Location: TBC

The Blue and Yellow Submarine (little bit of a Beatles reference there) parade brings forth a drumming octopus, skating jellyfish, disco ball angler fish and lots of other sea creatures to the streets of Liverpool, with a submarine in tow. The parade encourages its audience and members of the public to adopt the underwater fancy dress theme so they too, can be part of the parade. Described as an underwater kingdom of sounds, dancing and fun, this event hopes to symbolise the partnership with Liverpool and Ukraine, the global Eurovision community and the unity it brings.

Welcome to Eurotopia

May 5th

Location: Pier Head,  Liverpool L3 1DP

Liverpool art scene musicians Natalie McCool and Stealing Sheep lead a line-up of hometown all-stars and Ukrainian musicians.Joining forces with with Ukrainian artists Helleroid, Krapka, KOMA and Iryna Muha, Welcome To Eurotopia is set to be a cosmic show, melding Ukrainian styles with classic sounds from the city.

The show will also feature String players from Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and The Liverpool Marching Brass Band. 

HOME

May 5th - May 14th 

Location: City Wide

An app, designed by Liverpool University team, will lead the EuroFest guests and Liverpool locals to independent spaces to see Home-themed Ukrainian photography collections in 5 trails across the city region. The themes of the trails are Land, Making, Liberty, Resistance, Settings. 

Six Ukrainian photographers tell their stories about home through images, and six UK poets respond with a short poem in collaboration with the Open Eye Gallery.

These diptychs will be situated at the train stations, ferry terminals and University of Liverpool.

Rave UKraine

May 7th

Rave UKraine unites djs and ravers across simultaneous live events in Liverpool and Kyiv. The event is a first of its kind: a party taking place in two cities, at the exact same time, thousands of miles apart - both broadcast via a livestream to make one singular, unifying rave.

Hot Chip, the acclaimed band from the UK, will be performing a DJ set at the anticipated, one-off event. Ukrainian DJ Mingulitka is also confirmed to be playing a set, alongside icons of electronic music DJ Paulette and James Lavelle. 

This is an over 18 event, and tickets can be purchased for £10.20 here.

Xpresia Festival

May 7th - May 9th

Location: Invisible Wind Factory, 3 Regent Rd, Liverpool L3 7DS / Meraki, 3 Dickson St, Liverpool L3 7EB / Quarry 17 Love Ln, Liverpool L3 7DD

Whilst Liverpool hosts Eurovision on Ukraine’s behalf, Xpresia sees collaborations between British and Ukrainian creative producers and curators, to deliver something unique, vibrant and atmospheric. Xpresia celebrates culture, unity and creativity through visual arts, electronic music, DJs, live music, theatre and cabaret and creative technology. 

All Xpreisa acts are free, but the events are ticketed. Get your tickets here.

EuroCamp Presents... Black Gold Arts Takeover

May 8th 

Location: Chavasse Stage, Thomas Steers Way, Liverpool L1 8LW

Queer artists and allies from the Global Majority* serve up circus, family catwalk extravaganzas, bands, DJs, strollers, dance, spoken word and more. The day will comprise of over 50 artists, from drag to cabaret, circus, live music and fierce choreography.

*Global Majority = African, Caribbean, Southeast, South, East Asian, Middle Eastern Diaspora communities, as well as Indigenous communities

Storyville Live

May 11th - May 12th 

Location: TBC

The landmark feature documentary strand has made quite a name for itself showcasing the very best of international feature documentaries. Storyville Live sees it curate a selection of films highlighting Ukraine’s rich cultural heritage and stories from the frontline of the conflict with Russia, alongside new and classic music documentaries.

Jamala - Qirim

May 11th

Location: TBC

Ukrainian and Crimean Tatar singer-songwriter Jamala – the 2016 Eurovision winner – is set to perform live premiere of her QIRIM album with the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra.

From mysterious mountains and lifeless steppes to lively seaside villages, Jamala invites the audience on a journey across the Ukrainian peninsula Crimea, shining a spotlight on a culture and language we know little about. QIRIM includes 14 ancient songs, each representing a part of Crimea.

You're A Vision

May 12th

Location: Everyman Theatre

For one night only the Everyman falls under the control of Sheep Soup Productions, for a fabulous night of cabaret that will raise the roof. Heading up a house band with some familiar local faces, Sheep Soup will lead a riotous night of cabaret – with performance artists In Bed With My Brother bringing their special Eurovision performance, and more.

Audience member participation is key to this performance, with attendees encouraged to join in with the sing-alongs, games and general silliness. 

This event is for over 18's only, and requires a ticket which can be bought here for £3.

English National Opera Does Eurovision

May 9th 

Location: Pier Head, Liverpool L3 1DP

The world-renowned ENO Chorus and Orchestra, conducted by Stephen Bell, will be joined by former Eurovision contestants and international opera stars to perform classical arrangements of some of the Song Contest’s greatest hits. Expect bright costumes, rousing choirs, fabulous divas and sing-along tunes.

EuroCamp Presents... The Best And The Wurst Of Eurovision

May 9th

Location: Chavasse Stage, Thomas Steers Way, Liverpool L1 8LW

Hosted by Liverpudlian superstar Ms Sharon Le Grand, The Best and Wurst of Eurovision is a jam packed day of drag and cabaret talent paying homage to legendary acts and iconic Eurovision moments as they battle it out for ultimate glory.

The Best and The Wurst of Eurovision is brought to you by Hackney Showroom, award-winning creative producers of theatre and festivals.

EuroCamp Presents...HomoVision

May 10th

Location: Chavasse Stage, Thomas Steers Way, Liverpool L1 8LW

Featuring an all-star line-up of drag, karaoke, audience participation, DJs and a HomoVision take on Eurovision’s greatest hits, Homovision is a cabaret like no other celebrating the song contest through all things queer and fabulous.

EuroFestival certainly has a cracking line up, from before Eurovision lands to during the event and beyond.

I don't know about you, but all of these events sound amazing, and are getting me rather hyped for the festival itself. 

Why not check them all out at the weekends, or the during the two bank holidays' coming up? Most events are for all ages, making them a family affair, but if you're after something a bit more adult, give the over 18 events a go, a simultaneous rave might be just what you need to embrace the Eurovision spirit. 

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