Portrait of a Nation was a young persons heritage programme that took place in 17 cities from across the UK. Thousands of young people have all taken part in the programme, working with local artists and cultural organisations in their city to explore their roots, heritage and what makes their city special.
Here in Liverpool young people worked with The Comedy Trust to explore the history of the scouse language and accent and the city's rich comedy heritage.
In the workshops young people discovered and developed new skills in animation, performance and stand up comedy. Watch the Portrait Film here:
As part of the project two lucky young people working with us were invited to a Parliamentary Reception at Westminster for Portrait of a Nation. One of the young people had been chosen to compere the event, which involved introducing the speakers on to stage. This was an important opportunity for both young people to realise and feel a part of a National project by meeting other young people from the 17 cites. Here is what young people said about the event:
“The highlight of this project was going to Westminster as it really opened my eyes to the scale of the whole project and gave me an opportunity to get involved in speaking on stage inside Westminster which was a really exciting experience.”
Young comedian with Culture Secretary Andy Burnham at Westminster
On the 1st and 2nd December 2008 young people from across the 17 cites came together at St Georges Hall to take part in the Portrait of a Nation Finale. This event included performances, exhibitions, debates and workshops exploring the theme of heritage and identity. At this event young people from the Comedy Trust performed their final showcase piece.
Portrait of a Nation performers with Art Attack's Neil Buchanan who congratulated them on their fantastic performance!
“I enjoyed working on our performance e.g. script ideas, staging then in the end performing it in St Georges Hall. Also performing in St Georges hall because it went really well and people enjoyed it.”
“My highlight has to definitely be doing the main performance, it was amazing to finally show everyone from around the country our work.”
