The smells, sounds and sights of Victorian life at the Museum of Science & Industry this Half Term when Steam Sweat and Sewers returns for nine jam-packed, fun-filled days.
Witness the transformation of the museum’s former railway yard into a colourful and traditional fairground and breathe in the steam that powered industry.
Step back in time to experience all the fun of the Victorian fair and try your hand at the coconut shy, ride the carousel horses or slide down the helter skelter.
Follow in the footsteps of Manchester’s John Benjamin Dancer, the Victorian pioneer of scientific instruments and make your own take home Microscope using pop-bottles.
Discover just how filthy Victorian Manchester really was in Goo in the Loo – a hands-on and get your hands-dirty workshop shedding light on the city’s drainage systems. Toilet humour and mess are guaranteed.
Lovers of all things “yukky” will get an extra treat at the Punk Science Show at the museum, on the 17 and 18th February. Journey into literally the most disgusting show ever, from how poo is made to what happens to it afterwards. There will be revolting demonstrations, gross experiments and a bit of comedy, music, interactive voting and probably some plastic balls.
Additional Indoor activities include the Revolution Manchester Show celebrating great Victorian engineering achievements, weaving workshops, steam powered machinery demonstrations and a chance to delve into a reconstructed Victorian sewer. Help the children of the mill turn their grim reality into the colourful world of the circus in Pablo Fanque’s Circus. This energetic and interactive storytelling session brings the tricks and performances of this famous local circus owner into the grim environment of a Victorian mill.
There is something for everybody this half term at MOSI, where its historic 7.5 acre site offers a truly unique and life-like setting for exploring and experiencing Victorian life.
Natalie Ireland, Head of Public Programmes at MOSI says: “Steam, Sweat and Sewers is the museum’s homage to the city’s Victorian achievements. Our hands-on and creative programme enables us to bring our grade-one listed buildings and site to life to highlight Manchester’s significant scientific and industrial contributions that underpin our modern world.”
The exhibition is supported by United Utilities whose Anne Dobson adds
“We owe so much to the Victorians for the water and sewage systems we all take for granted – and which our engineers help to keep flowing every day. We’re delighted to be part of this fabulous MOSI event that helps bring Manchester’s heritage alive, but importantly helps you find out the right kind of ‘goo’ to put in your loo!”
Steam, Sweat and Sewers runs from 14 February – 22 February. For full details of the programme go to www.mosi.org.uk/whats-on/steam-sweat-and-sewers
