DigiFest 2020

DigiFest 2020 was Manchester Histories' first fully digital festival to mark the 50th anniversary of the Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act.

Manchester Histories DigiFest 2020 took place on 7th and 8th September 2020, to mark the 50th anniversary of the Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons’ Act, pioneered by Alf Morris (Wythenshawe MP, 1964-1997), the first Minister for Disabled People.

Due to Covid-19 and restrictions on gathering together, DigiFest 2020 was a creative solution to ensure we continued to mark this important year.  DigiFest was broadcast live from a professional pop up studio in Manchester Central Library, where we welcomed guests live in the studio, via Zoom and through pre-recorded talks and performances.  You can visit some of the content on Manchester Histories Youtube Channel here.

DigiFest 2020 also curated an online gallery showcasing work by disabled artists and partner organisations.  Visit their websites to find out more about their work Venture Arts, George Parker Conway, Andy Wilde, Gallery Oldham, Henshaws, Louise Stern, Pool Arts, Pure Innovations, Start – Inspiring Minds.

DigiFest explored the legacy of Alf’s Act, celebrated talent and creativity, and prompted conversations and discussion around societal challenges disabled people face in their everyday lives.

Jackie Hagan hosting DigiFest 2020
Photograph of the original copies of Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Bill and Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act 1970
Image of camera operator and film kit in action with two palantypists working in the background in the DigiFest pop up studio in Performance Space, Manchester Central Library.
Artist Joan sitting with a display of her colourfully decorated ceramic jugs, bowls and cups and artwork. She created the pieces for a solo exhibition 'How I See My World' for Henshaws.

Manchester Histories DigiFest 2020 Programme

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Take a look at all the activity that took place. (4.3MB pdf)

Lady Irene Morris in animated discussion on stage in the pop up studio in the Performance Space in Manchester Central Library.
Row of handmade pottery weasels, part of the 'Weasel Army', created by 'Chief Weasel' Dominic Bennett, artist at Venture Arts.
BSL Interpreter signing at DigiFest 2020.
Focus on monitor broadcasting panel debate via Zoom

Manchester Histories DigiFest 2020 created an online gallery showcasing work by disabled artists and partner organisations including Venture Arts, George Parker Conway, Andy Wilde, Gallery Oldham, Henshaws, John Rylands Library, Louise Stern, Pool Arts, Pure Innovations, START – Inspiring Minds.

Such an important & powerful festival. I could tweet every minute to share with you all the stories & experiences that I am connecting with. Thank you for curating such a creative programme. Celebrating & sharing disabled communities experiences!

Hannah Quigley, Twitter
View of the monitors and process of filming the broadcast, from the back of the bank of technical gear to the stage area

2,800 Live broadcast audience figure

Saba Salman on screen giving a talk at the live broadcast in Manchester Central Library.

75 Open Call Submissions

Lady Irene Morris wearing a viser watching a discussion on the studio monitor in the foreground with a member of the tech team wearing a facemask sat at his monitor.

3 Commissioned short films about Alf Morris and 'Alf's Act'

Double bass, music stand and chair in am empty, brightly lit room in Manchester Central Library, set up for rehearsal.

3 New music commissions by young musicians