Postcards from the Past
We’re taking a moment to reflect on some of the incredible projects we’ve produced over the past 14 years.
From a forest of Christmas trees on the harbourside in Bristol, to 25 young dancers taking the National Theatre by storm, and a continuous 24-day live sound performance in a bombed-out church, we’ve always aimed to create unforgettable experiences that linger in the hearts and minds of those who experience them.
As we look back we are reminded of the special impact these projects had on those who gathered to experience them. These are extraordinary ideas put into the world by artists who are compelled to speak of the things that both connect and confront us. We are so proud to be trusted to be part of realising these complex and beautiful artworks.
Now Is The Time To Say Nothing
Caroline Williams and Reem Karssli’s powerful exploration of the role of screens in global conflict, Now Is The Time To Say Nothing follows Reem Karssli as she documents her daily life during the Syrian conflict. Created over four years, the project explores the challenges of staying connected in times of crisis and exile. Premiering at Mayfest 2018, it went on to tour internationally, resonating deeply with audiences.
“It’s just over three hours since I’ve seen it, and I’d be surprised if in three years I’ve fully understood what it’s done to me”
Second Chance
In January 2014, we transformed Bristol’s harbourside into a beautiful, temporary forest. For Second Chance, we invited people across the city to donate their discarded Christmas trees, creating a stunning public installation that brought warmth to the cold winter days. We kicked things off with hot toddies and a special gig by Czech band Please The Trees, and when it was all over, the trees were chipped and used to heat local schools.
Undersong
Verity Standen’s breathtaking immersive vocal performance Undersong premiered to sell-out crowds at Mayfest 2018, with performances at St George’s, Bristol Cathedral, and Barton Hill Settlement. Though a national tour was planned, it was sadly curtailed by the pandemic. Perhaps one day it will return...
“A completely mind-blowing experience; strong physical reaction, flooded with emotion, very overwhelming. Made me feel alive”
SESSION
A battle cry and a love song, SESSION celebrates community, youth, and belonging. Created with Still House, Steppaz, and Empire Sounds, the show premiered at LIFT in 2018 and toured across the UK, culminating in electrifying performances outside the National Theatre on London’s South Bank.
“For the dancers, I don’t think we ever thought that we could have a show that would be equivalent to the West End... Hundreds, maybe even thousands of people watching us... And they were absolutely in awe... 25 under-18 dancers from Tottenham captivating audiences at the National Theatre. Honestly, for them, that’s unheard of.... Can you imagine, ‘Oh me at 8, or me at 15, I captivated this family walking along the Southbank, they stopped, they watched me, and they saw me as a person, as an artist, as a performer and what I was expressing really resonated with them.’” Abena Noel, co-choreographer, Steppaz.
Sanctum
In 2015, we co-produced Theaster Gates’ Sanctum with Situations — an epic 24-hour-a-day performance of continuous live sound in a bombed-out church in Redcliffe. Featuring hundreds of local musicians, performers, potters, artists, and singers, each passed the baton to the next, creating an ever-evolving soundscape. Part of Bristol Green Capital 2015, Sanctum welcomed 15,000 visitors over 24 days.
“An unmissable treat” The Guardian
An urgent call for support
We can only continue to produce projects like these with the support of our community. As we enter the final weeks of our fundraising campaign, we still have a long way to go to reach our £30,000 target.
It’s an extremely tough environment for artists and cultural organisations right now. Rising costs, shrinking resources, and an increasingly competitive funding landscape mean organisations like MAYK are facing significant challenges.
We don’t make asks like this very often, so when we do, it really matters.
Can you help us get closer to our goal?
Make a one-off donation today and help us keep our work thriving. If you’re a UK taxpayer, you can add Gift Aid to your donation, which adds an additional 25% at no extra cost to you—meaning that a £10 donation becomes £12.50.