Play: Experience the adventure of our cities

31 March to 16 September 2007

From evening tango classes in the square in Buenos Aires, to Mah-jong games in Hanoi, from skateboarding on the Left Bank in London to elaborate pavement drawings in New York City, the people of the world have transformed the streets, squares, buildings and alleyways of our cities into exciting spaces where different forms of PLAY take place every day.

This world premiere exhibition abandoned ideas of traditional gallery spaces  and asked visitors to dive in head first to experience firsthand the creative ways in which we use the city as a stage, a gallery, a studio, a greenhouse and of course, an enormous playground.

The exhibition took PLAY to the streets, vaulting out of the gallery and transformed the heart of Manchester City Centre into an interactive game board, with treasures to seek and questions to investigate across the city.

Media Release

Play.pdf – click here to download Play’s media release

 

Customer Comments

“I love that this place is full of innovative ideas and has lots to do with the city I live in”

“That was the most awesome thing ever.  Loved it! x”

“Wonderful, thanks.  I’m coming back with my children”

Press Comments

“As far as museums go, it’s far from the norm, with a series of interactive exhibits that bring out the child in you. Quick word about the Urbis staff too - exemplary”

- Mark Burrow, Urban Life

“If one exhibition has struck at the heart of what Urbis is about then this is it, Play offers a massively refreshing look at our planet’s cities by presenting them as gigantic, growling amusement parks. Photography, installation,  moving image and external events combine to convey Play’s central philosophy with beautiful clarity”

- Mark Powell, Metro

Gallery