MIF17: What Is the City but the People? in Piccadilly Gardens
Polly Checkland HardingThe opening event of MIF17, Artistic Director John McGrath’s debut festival, will be a unique portrait of the people of Manchester. Conceived by artist Jeremy Deller, What Is the City but the People? will see residents parading on a specially designed walkway stretching more than 100 metres across Manchester’s Piccadilly Gardens to live music from Graham Massey, assisted by an unexpected mix of local musicians. Capturing the city through its outfits and attitudes, audiences of What Is the City – both in-person and online – will be treated to a varied performance, including high-fashion statements and moments of deep intimacy.