00:00Liverpool is set to host a major festival combining disability arts, culture and elite para-sport.
00:06The inclusive sport and culture festival will run from the 2nd to the 8th of May 2027,
00:13bringing these strands together in one city-wide celebration.
00:16Its cultural programme is supported by a million pounds from Arts Council England,
00:20with Culture Liverpool delivering the work.
00:23A formed cultural advisory group will help shape the programme,
00:27bringing together artists, writers, performers and accessibility specialists with expertise in inclusive culture.
00:34The group is chaired by Tony Heaton OBE, a sculptor and pioneer of disability arts.
00:39Members include Lawrence Clark, Mandy Redford-Rowe, Kate Fox, Andrew Lansley and Bethan Langford.
00:47Creative Director Bevere is leading the programme, supported by Zoe Partington.
00:51The festival is backed by UK Sport and will combine new commissions, performances and installations
00:58across four major international para-sport competitions in boccia, para-athletics, wheelchair rugby and para-canoe.
01:07Organisers say disabled-led creativity will remain at the heart of the event.
01:12They also want the festival to create lasting opportunities and meaningful social impact beyond the event.
01:19Core funding includes £2.3 million from the National Lottery,
01:24supporting an ambitious programme shaped by people living with disabilities.
