“In the winter we used to go to Bramley Baths dancing but me father used to come and pick me up at 11 o clock. He’d stand outside the door and wait for me. I remember having an angora wool jumper … in a very very pale blue… I thought it was the bees’ knees and me boyfriend and I went dancing at Bramley Baths and he had a brown suit on. The first dance after we stopped dancing he was covered in mohair – ah dear, he was furious (laughs).”
Based on hundreds of memories and made with lots of creative talent, Mermaid Tales will celebrate the extraordinary moments that make up Bramley Baths.
Local memories donated by people of all ages who have used Bramley Baths will be part of a one-night-only performance on Saturday, 28 November, 7.30pm.
Combining fantasy with reality, Mermaid Tales is an original aquatic adventure based on memories borrowed from Leeds swimmers, translated into a walking, talking, dancing performance and exhibition that finishes with a routine in the pool.
Roam the building to reveal the compelling human stories at its heart, told through immersive, interactive multimedia art and performance; throwing a new light on the hidden and public spaces in this 110-year-old building.
It is the culmination event of The Bramley Memory Aquarium project, sharing a collection of stories about the generations of people who have enjoyed the Baths. It is also an opportunity to see Bramley Baths as never before.
You will also have a chance to leave your mark on the project by adding your own experiences on the day and becoming part of the project.
One show has already sold out but you can book at the baths on 0113 256 0949 or online for the 7.30pm show.
The evening promises to be completely original, heartwarming and enjoyable for young and older!
Bramley Memory Aquarium is a Heritage Lottery funded project to gather the stories and memories of west Leeds residents at Bramley Baths. The project is a partnership between Bramley Baths, Leeds College of Art and Yorkshire Life Aquatic.