News / #WeMakeEvents
Showing support for the embattled events industry
Venues across Bristol were illuminated red in support of the events industry, with dozens of events professionals also standing in silence on College Green.
Tuesday evening’s events were part of two campaigns, We Make Events and Light in Red, which have the message that without immediate and meaningful support from the government, the UK’s live events sector supply chain is at risk of collapse.
The socially distanced art installation on College Green saw those taking part wearing all black with red masks to reinforce that they stand ‘on guard’ of their industry, which many fear will cease to exist if help is not given.
is needed now More than ever
While many people can return to work, talented and experienced event professionals cannot. The #WeMakeEvents campaign highlight the need for an extension of furlough, extension of the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme and making grants available to businesses in the event supply chain.
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Among the 100 people dressed in black on College Green some of the people who make music and arts events in Bristol so amazing to attend, but who rarely get seen.
Venues across Bristol including the Colston Hall, Hippodrome, Louisiana and St George’s were illuminated in red to support the campaign, joining other venues across the UK in a colourful display of solidarity.
The scenes on College Green were made possible by a collaboration of Bristol based event businesses SLX Hire & Events, Fineline, Enlightened, Utopium, Cirque Bijou, BES Marquees, Pytch and Okoru Events.
Alastair Currie, CEO at SLX, said: “It was so important that Bristol participated in this national campaign, as so many brilliant and innovative event businesses exist here in the city – along with exceptionally talented employees and freelancers.
“This awareness campaign is about the entire supply chain and flagging to the public and the government how extensive the impact of this crisis has been to a huge variety of businesses involved in the industry.”
Colston Hall was lit up red in support of the freelancers, suppliers and numerous professionals who are vital to the live events industry – photo: Colston Hall
St George’s chief exec Suzanne Rolt said: “St George’s is a beacon of red tonight, calling out in support of our amazing freelance colleagues who are so vital to our cultural sector” – photo: St George’s
Main photo by Martin Booth
Read more: Live music returns to St George’s after five-month absence
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