Gaia’s three-day visit set to surprise, inspire and entertain

The People Powered Rocket. Photo credit: Stev Samosa

An exciting programme of events has been unveiled to accompany the world-famous Gaia art installation, which is coming to Birkenhead Park later this month.

The iconic three-dimensional Earth exhibit by Luke Jerram will be on display as part of Wirral’s year as Borough of Culture for the Liverpool City Region from Tuesday 28th to Thursday 30th May.

Each day will see a different themed event will take place in the shadow of the exhibit, starting on Tuesday 28th May with Dance Around the Globe. Morris dancing, as well as other traditional dancing and even a relaxing yoga session by local yogi will be performed under the large scale globe.

Wednesday 29th May is Love Your Earth Day, which will showcase community groups across Wirral who are making a positive difference to our environment. Visitors can try their hand at willow and bamboo weaving or try their hand at beekeeping. There might even be an odd encounter with a giant tortoise and a talking flower.

Wirral Sings on Thursday 30th May will feature a dramatic fire-lit concert featuring local singer-songwriters and a performance by Flat Pack Opera. Visitors are invited to bring refreshments and sit back to enjoy this mini-prom in the park whilst watching the sun set behind the magnificent Gaia. 

The events have been put together by the council’s partner in this Borough of Culture celebration, the internationally renowned outdoor arts specialists Walk the Plank. As part of the accompanying events, Walk the Plank will also be bringing their People Powered Rocket to the park on both Love Your Earth Day and at Wirral Sings. 

Horses enjoying a ride on the People Powered Rocket. Photo credit: Stev Samosa

The People Powered Rocket is an environmentally-friendly take on George Stevenson’s Rocket locomotive, redesigned by Walk The Plank two centuries after its creation – fuelled not by coke but by good old-fashioned pedal power.

The construction will be pulling First, Second and Third Class carriages through the park on Wednesday 29th and Thursday 30th May – keep an eye out for some unusual passengers on board!

Councillor Helen Cameron, Chair Wirral Council’s Tourism, Communities, Culture and Leisure Committee, said: 

Wirral’s year as Liverpool City Region Borough of Culture is well underway with local arts and heritage organisations stepping up to get involved.  

The Council is proud to be bringing Luke Jerram’s Gaia to the UNESCO World Heritage Site-shortlisted Birkenhead Park as part of the programme, and we can’t wait to welcome residents and visitors to share a few unforgettable days of celebration and family fun.

Bev Ayre, Senior Producer for Walk the Plank added:

We’re thrilled to be producing three days of fun and environmental activities under Luke Jerram’s awe inspiring earth.  Come along and join us for a Wirral Borough of Culture programme which promises to be out of this world.

For more information about these events, visit the Wirral Borough of Culture 2024 website at www.wirral2024.com.