Two areas of the city will be getting a make-over in anticipation of the Radio 1 Big Weekend festival
Two areas of the city will be getting a make-over in anticipation of the Radio 1 Big Weekend festival
Two of Liverpool’s most recognisable destinations, the Royal Albert Dock and Liverpool ONE, will get a make-over in anticipation of the Radio 1 Big Weekend festival which is coming to Sefton Park next month. The two city landmarks are aiming to bring “a touch of Hollywood’s stardom to Liverpool” with a Walk of Stars installation.
From May 2 to 26, the artists performing at Radio 1’s Big Weekend in May will have their names featured on stars on the street leading from Liverpool ONE to Royal Albert Dock, with more than 70 stars in total. Music lovers will be able to take a selfie with their favourite singer or band’s star, from the up and coming artists on the Introducing Stage to the well recognised acts set to perform on the Main Stage.
During the three days of the Radio 1’s Big Weekend visitors will be able to enjoy their own five minutes of fame, as Liverpool ONE and Royal Albert Dock will be giving visitors an opportunity to show off their singing and dancing talents either end of the Walk of Stars, with entertainment being hosted by radio personality Leanne Campbell from 1-5pm.
As part of activities, the dock’s Time to Shine podiums will be returning from May 23 to 25, located in front of the Martin Luther King Junior building at one end of the Walk of Stars.
The two podiums will provide spotlight stages for visitors to sing along to their favourite song, and they even attracted Sam Ryder who delighted fans with a surprise performance during the Eurovision Song Contest.
Similarly, Liverpool ONE will bring back their popular karaoke truck which will be located at the bottom of the Sugar House Steps on Thomas Steers Way at the other end of the Walk of Stars, where aspiring performers can put their vocals to the test and get into the festival spirit.
Sean Morrison, Royal Albert Dock Estate Manager, said: “We’re thrilled to be partnering with Liverpool ONE to bring this exciting Walk of Stars to life in the lead-up to Radio 1’s Big Weekend.
“Seeing the energy of music fans flow from the city centre down to our iconic waterfront, celebrating these incredible artists, will be fantastic. And with the return of our Time to Shine podiums, the dock will once again be a stage for everyone to take part in the festivities”.
Donna Howitt, Place Strategy Director at Liverpool ONE, said: “Showcasing local talent and putting the spotlight on our city’s thriving music scene is something we’re extremely passionate about at Liverpool ONE.
“There’s already a lot of excitement about Radio 1’s Big Weekend coming to Liverpool and I have no doubt that, as a city, we’ll throw a great party for everyone!
“The Walk of Stars that we have created with Royal Albert Dock will create some extra special selfie moments in the run up to the event, while the podiums and karaoke will be a great opportunity to get visitors on the mic and perform for passers-by helping to show just how much incredible talent we have here.”
The Big Weekend festival is taking over Sefton Park, in a city first, next month from Friday, May 23 to Sunday, May 25.
The event will be part of what is set to be a massive weekend for Liverpool, with a number of large-scale events occurring in the space of a few days.
Besides the music event, the city is also welcoming back the Queen Anne Cruise Ship over the Spring Bank holiday, and the final games of the Premier League season will take place.
Those lucky enough to get their hands on tickets for Radio 1’s Big Weekend will be treated to performances from headline acts Sam Fender and Mumford & Sons, as well as the likes of former Little Mix star Jade and upcoming act Lola Young.
