Star Rating from The Lowry's Millionth Visitor
Since opening on 28th April 2000, The Lowry, the National Landmark Millennium Project for The Arts has exceeded all expectations with its visitor numbers reaching one million in the first year. The projection for the first 12 months was 770,000, which was achieved in just 9 months.
One Millionth Visitor
The millionth visitor, retired teacher Mrs Buckley from Salford walked through the doors on Wednesday 25th April to see the matinee of A Woman in Black. A regular visitor , she was overwhelmed to find that she was the millionth visitor, entitling her to a host of fabulous prizes. As she was presented with champagne & flowers, she discovered that she would receive free theatre tickets to shows at The Lowry for a year plus a free meal for two in the restaurant, Steven Saunders at The Lowry.
Her presentation gifts also included the latest books from Lowry Press: An A-Z of Lowry & Lowry's City, free admission to ArtWorks for the year and an UpFront card, entitling her to further benefits. To complete her impromptu special day, Mrs Buckley was taken behind the scenes after the matinee to meet the cast from the show.
The Lowry as a Visitor Attraction
The Lowry, an architectural flagship bringing together the visual and performing arts under one roof, has surpassed all expectations in attracting thousands of visitors every day. These range from local people to national and international visitors, some who drop in for a cup of coffee and look at the exhibitions and some who spend a whole day exploring the building and enjoying entertainment in the theatres. The Lowry is free to enter and open all day, every day. It's there to be discovered, explored and enjoyed, with a changing programme of events offering plenty of opportunity for repeat visits.
Building on the success of this first year, the future of The Lowry looks bright and events and activities planned are destined to open The Lowry's appeal to an even wider audience.
Summer fun at The Lowry
Pizzazz! offers a fun-filled summer at The Lowry with animation, puppets, exhibitions and dance celebrating movement in all shapes and forms. In August, the Galleries turn inside out with amazing and mesmerising events and activities by the Whalley Range All Stars, Forkbeard Fantasy Theatre Company and animation by Cosgrove Hall in ArtWorks, the infamous creators of Dangermouse.
Visitors can pull strings, shake hands, peep in and even climb inside some of the bizarre characters from Forkbeard Fantasy's remarkable theatrical productions. This exhibition (4 - 27 August) brings together giant Rabbits, Crows and Caryatids, scary Miss Moody, manic Anthony and The Delegation. Forkbeard Fantasy is a touring theatre company at the cutting edge of contemporary theatre, specialising in an innovative mix of theatre and film performance. They present their new production Frankenstein in The Lyric Theatre in January 2002.
The Lowry's Theatres
The Lowry's two theatres draw some of the biggest names in the business and some of the brightest new talents. Offering something for everyone, the programme includes a full range of drama, opera, ballet, dance, musicals, children's shows, popular music, jazz, folk and comedy. Call the Box Office on 0161 876 2000 for more details.
The Lowry's Galleries
At the heart of The Lowry's Galleries is the work of LS Lowry himself, arguably one of Britain's most popular and yet genuinely profound artists of 20th century. Viewing his work is always FREE, as are many of the significant regional, national and international exhibitions running alongside the main collection.
The Lowry's Appeal
Other attractions at The Lowry include the restaurant, café, bars and shops crammed full of goodies from books and CDs to educational toys and arts videos. The Lowry's superb hospitality and conference spaces can accommodate events ranging from small seminars and client hospitality functions to large-scale conferences.
The Lowries Location
Located just 1.5 miles from Manchester City Centre, The Lowry is easily accessible and provides safe, secure parking for cars and coaches. It's only quarter of a mile from the motorway network and only a 20 minute drive from the airport. Manchester's light rapid transit system, Metrolink provides an efficient and regular service to Salford Quays.
The Quays
The Quays area has become a popular leisure destination and will attract thousands more visitors with the imminent opening of further attractions. The Lowry has acted as a catalyst for the continuing regeneration process and cultural, creative and economic activity at Salford Quays. A Water Quarter Improvement Programme has created a vibrant, attractive water corridor linking Salford Quays to Manchester city centre.
Designer Outlet at The Lowry
It has attracted a £70 million retail and leisure development to the site adjacent to The Lowry. Scheduled to open in October 2001, the Designer Outlet @ The Lowry incorporates discount designer shops, bars & restaurants, a health and fitness club and a Warner Village nine screen Multiplex Cinema.
Imperial War Museum
The Lowry footbridge links The Lowry to Trafford Wharfside, providing easy access from Old Trafford, Manchester United Football Club and the Imperial War Museum - North, scheduled to open in 2002. World-renowned architect Professor Daniel Libeskind has created the stunning building, reflecting the way the wars of the last century have fragmented the world. Three of these fragments, symbolising war on land, sea and in the air, are drawn together to create the building. The Lowry is currently showing an introductory display about this innovative new museum.
The Future
A breathtaking international landmark, The Lowry is a must-see tourist attraction with a unique and dynamic identity. The Lowry looks forward to welcoming many more visitors to enjoy its varied programme of events as well as the many new attractions on the Quays.
Press Enquiries: Michelle Bowey, Media Relations Manager.
Direct Line: 0161 876 2037
Admin: Tel: 0161 876 2020
Fax: 0161 876 2021
Posted on Friday, 27 April 2001 under Press General Press