M Shed, the new harbourside museum of Bristol which opens in mid-June, is looking for volunteers to join its inaugural Procession of Professions – a reinvention of such processions held centuries ago and aimed at reflecting the city’s economic and social activity. Currently 20 groups are involved but more are needed.
Those signed up so far include the Lord Mayor dressed in formal robes and his Mace with an escort made up of a voluntary team from the Avon and Somerset constabulary. The museum wants Bristol professions, trades, businesses and occupations to create the parade wearing iconic costumes of their own choosing.
It wants groups to dress in inventive and creative ways. The clergy, the law and the military may have traditionally recognisable clothing but how would you dress? For example, boat builders might wear boats on their hats while the city’s aero-engineers could sport models of the A380. Maybe the bakers will wear bread in some form but how will finance, insurance and banking be represented? What about carers? And how will the digital, cultural and creative industries contribute?
The opening weekend starts June 17 with the inaugural procession – which it is hoped will become an annual event – scheduled for 11am on Saturday June 18. Find out how you can become involved by contacting bethan.greaves@bristol.gov.uk
