MIF Begins

29/06/07

The inaugural Manchester International Festival only really starts for me the day after the official opening, with an invite to the launch event of Manchester Peripheral at Kro in Piccadilly Gardens.

Organised by Drew, an old friend who runs the Futuresonic festival, Manchester Peripheral collects together diverse sounds from a very diverse city.

We manage to find a seat outside and watch some brilliant African singers and dancers from east Manchester go through their paces, before a samba drumming band kicks up a percussive storm and some local kids start an impromptu break dance session. Even the sun is shining.

You know, I think this festival might just work.