CityLife

Ladyfest has it all

Ladyfest Manchester 2008

TWO-day female-focused festival Ladyfest Manchester starts on November 7 at the Zion Arts Centre in Hulme, boasting live music, skilled workshops, literature, comedy - and even free, professional childcare.

Thanks to a service run by mobile creche It's A Kid's World, parents will be able to book places for their children between 7pm and midnight. The creche is fully insured; and all uniformed staff possess enhanced CRB clearance, carry identification at all times and follow OFSTED guidelines.

Incredible array

This, of course, leaves reassured parents free to enjoy the multitude of entertainments on offer - including Friday night caberet from Lady Carnival; hosted by Rosie Lugosi and featuring burlesque, poetry, dancing and music from Kaye Mitchell, Lou Whatling, Your Orange Coat, Pianofingers, Ultra Violet Violence, Leni Ward and Sisters Of Transistors.

An incredible array of bands on display throughout the weekend includes Zombina And The Skeletones, Das Wanderlust, Geekgirl, Sophie's Pigeons, Manda Rin (ex-Bis), Shrag, Kids Love Lies, Penny Broadhurst, Miss The Occupier, Nikki Patin, The Duloks, The Slits, Hooker, Vile Vile Creatures, The Bobby McGees, The Lovely Eggs, Candy Panic Attack and Hug Party.

Self-defence, car mechanics and Asian women's issues are just a few of the topics covered in workshop sessions.

For more information on the creche, open to children between ages 2 and 12, email ladyfestmancs_childcare@fastmail.co.uk.
[Blow-up mattress and sleeping bag recommended.]

For more information on Ladyfest Manchester, including listings, visit the link on the right.