LOWRY & NOT TOO TAME’S ‘GODS OF SALFORD’ TAKES OVER THE HOUSE OF LORDS – A DAZZLING CELEBRATION OF YOUTH, CREATIVITY AND COURAGE

• Event in London on Tuesday 21st October looked at how to remove barriers and build strategic opportunities in the arts for working class young people

• Gods of Salford was created by Lowry and Not Too Tame as part of Lowry’s 25th Birthday programme and was a celebration of creativity, empowerment and what is possible when young people are trusted to lead

• House of Lords audience were wowed by live performances from the young people. They were welcomed by Lord McDonald of Salford, heard from Lowry CEO Julia Fawcett O.B.E., Not Too Tame’s Artistic Director Jimmy Fairhurst and Paul Dennett, City Mayor of Salford.
   

Young people from across Lowry’s youth programmes took centre stage at the House of Lords on Tuesday 21st October, in an unforgettable event that moved audiences to tears and left a lasting impression on Westminster.

For many of the young performers, this was their first time in London, and none had ever stepped foot inside the House of Lords. But they didn’t just visit; they owned the room.

The event, opened and closed by Lord McDonald of Salford, was a powerful showcase of the power of creativity to unlock potential, build confidence, and genuinely change lives.

Julia Fawcett O.B.E. Chief Executive of Lowry, said “The audience, made up of parliamentarians, policymakers, cultural leaders and youth advocates, were blown away by scenes from Gods of Salford which highlighted the powerlessness that young people feel and how, together, they can find the courage and resilience to be the change makers and re-write their own destinies. 

“The performance was electric, raw, real and deeply moving as they delivered their message face to face with the audience. There was a palpable sense of respect for the young people and their achievements.”

The event also featured speeches from Julia Fawcett O.B.E., Chief Executive of Lowry, Jimmy Fairhurst, Artistic Director of Not Too Tame, and Paul Dennett, City Mayor of Salford. Together, they called for national strategies that embed youth voice, creativity and opportunity at their core; from curriculum reform to long-term funding and a deeper understanding of the cultural ecosystem.

Earlier this year, Gods of Salford brought together 25 young people from Salford with professional actors to reimagine Greek myths through the lens of working-class life. Young people also worked behind the scenes, gaining hands-on experience in technical and backstage roles.

The result? A fearless, inclusive production that celebrated resilience, identity and the power of lived experience. For some of the young people involved, the House of Lords event was “the best day of their lives” and “a moment they’ll never forget”.

Julia Fawcett O.B.E. Chief Executive of Lowry continued “Gods of Salford isn’t just theatre, it is a wake-up call and a celebration of what’s possible when young people are seen, heard and supported. We wanted to bring the spirit of Gods of Salford to the House of Lords, and to showcase how the arts can unlock potential, drive meaningful social change and champion the next generation.

“Gods of Salford is an example of the impact culture and creative opportunities for children and young people can have. Imagine if we could deliver projects like this all over the country, reaching young people in this way, and changing more lives?”

Jenny Riding, Director of Learning and Engagement at Lowry, said “This was a crucial opportunity to remind decision makers and supporters about the true impact of creativity when young people are backed and platformed properly. When they have opportunity, resources and the belief that they can do brilliant things, they transcend all expectations. Gods of Salford is proof of that. We are so proud of each of the young people involved; they are the best ambassadors of Salford and of the power of creativity to change lives”

Jimmy Fairhurst, Artistic Director of Not Too Tame said “Gods of Salford is raw, fearless, and full of heart. It’s Not Too Tame’s ethos brought to life through a bold collaboration with Lowry, showing exactly what happens when young people take the spotlight and own the stage. Seeing working-class voices echo through the House of Lords wasn’t just powerful - it was essential. Those in charge need to hear directly from the people living the realities they debate. This partnership is proof that when you make space for real stories, you don’t just create theatre- you spark change.”

Salford City Mayor Paul Dennett said “It is fantastic that Lowry’s youth programme has performed at the House of Lords and given our young people a unique opportunity.

“The event has showcased the creativity and talent of our future generation and it has helped to highlight the importance of arts in our communities . I was truly honoured to be invited to attend the performance, it is incredibly powerful. A huge well done to all our young people once again.” 

Deputy City Mayor Tracy Kelly said “Our young people showed the incredible talent we have in this city, I am so proud of them. The energy in the room was felt by all, it was very emotional. It is a performance that those in attendance will definitely remember.”