ArchiveExhibition
Balmy Army
1 Jul-15 Jul 2023
Manchester International Festival
Manchester M3 4JQ
Overview
‘Ever been told to ask for help? Then asked for help. Only to be told help wasn’t available? (Maybe in six months, a few hundred miles away...).
Ever been told you’ve got a problem, but something inside you says: “Hmmm am not quite sure it’s JUST me?”.
Ever get the feeling young people’s mental healthcare could be so much better?’
Enter the Balmy Army. Over the past year young people, artists, madpride organisers, radical dreamers, disability justice doers and everyone else trying to cope have come together. What do they want? Mental health support that works. When do they want it? About 15 years ago...
From sharing poetry to making placards, to social media takeovers and mass acts of civil disobedience, this is the Balmy Army’s lab where anything (safe) can happen. It’s a space for the Balmy Army to play, plan protests, give performances and even print ‘madidas’ t-shirts.
You can drop in too and see what it’s all about. Keep your eyes peeled for more opportunities coming your way, but for starters you’re welcome to join the Balmy Army for:
A Welcome and Sharing
What? An informal and relaxed get together celebrating all things Balmy Army and the work they’re doing.
When? Saturday 1 July at 3pm
Do I need to book? Yep, just follow the booking link and you’re golden.
A Movement and Call to Action
What? Join the Balmy Army as we move through the city and celebrate young people making change, followed by a rally of song, poems and demands for better mental health support.
When? Saturday 15 July from 2.30pm
Do I need to book? Nope, this one’s a just-show-up kinda thing.
Whether you’re struggling with your mental health, supporting someone who is, work in mental health or you’re just curious, Balmy Army reminds us that mental health isn’t just about individuals – and that community, care and creativity are some of our greatest ways to heal.
The Balmy Army exhibition is free entry, no ticket is required. Public opening hours for the exhibition will be announced closer to the event.
