Coventry’s Big Bridge – A Catalyst for Change

A Leonardo Da Vinci-inspired bridge spanned Broadgate last Saturday 28^thSeptember, built by Imagineer Productions, a live events company based in Coventry.

The bridge was just one of 20 to be erected across the city as part of a week long series of events to inspire the the union of local communities.

The bridges were built across the city of Coventry in schools, parks and other hotspots such as Broadgate following a successful stint of shows in Grantham earlier in the month. The free daytime events welcomed those of all ages to pariticipate. 

During a roster of  events in Broadgate on Saturday, Coventrians enjoyed a silent disco, live DJ set and a performance from Ascension Dance Company. 

'The aim is to try to help bring arts and dance to different people in the city’, said Ashley Jordan, executive director of Ascension Dance. 

Upon speaking to Ashley, one of Ascension Dance’s directors, it was clear how much community means to coventry residents. 

He spoke fondly of Coventry and how he wants to continue to promote healthy and interconnected communities through performances.

‘Performing in the city and around the country is something that we will continue to do’ he added.

The company also hope to encourage children to get involved in community via dance.

‘[Ascension] have plans to provide opportunities for more young people by going in to schools to do workshops.’

Crowds also gathered around a trailer decorated in positive protest boards. 

People of all ages had a go at creating a placard that embraced community. ‘Go shake the hand of a stranger’ and ‘Treat all as equals’ were just a few that stood on display.

Operating the stand was a Coventry based company called Ludic Rooms.

Anne Forgon from Ludic Rooms described how the company have been, ‘encouraging people to think about positive messages that they can share to encourage a better atmosphere amongst people that they might not agree with.’

‘In the end we are all human’ Anne added. 

The optimism from the local businesses and residents continued throughout the day, despite the burden of torrential rain.

Coventry Ambassador Diane believed the event in Broadgate to be a success following many positive reviews from, ‘families, people from all walks of life, all sorts of cultures’. 

Diane, a Coventry citizen herself, was keen for community events such as Imagineer Bridge  to be better publicised.  

She commented, ‘I don’t feel that some of these events are publicised and that makes some communities feel isolated because they don’t know what’s going on’

‘I think it is important that we have events for people of all ages from four to one hundred so that everyone feels involved.’ Diane added.

Imagineer Productions plan to bring the Bridge project to other cities across the UK, with Worcester the next on the list in July 2020.

It is hoped that the events will continue to ‘bridge the gap’ in deprived communities and make for more interconnected and happy cities.