LiveWire is a Cornerhouse education project for 14 to 18 year olds who want to get creative and work with experienced artists and filmmakers. Film, art and multi-technology projects and events run throughout the year and are free!

About LiveWire

Where does LiveWire take place?

LiveWire takes place in Cornerhouse in Manchester.

What is Cornerhouse?

Cornerhouse is Manchester's international centre for contemporary visual arts and cinema. It has three cinemas, three galleries, two bookshops, education spaces and a cafe bar. The exhibitions and films shown are exciting contemporary work from independent artists and filmmakers from all over the world. Click here for the Cornerhouse website.

Who visits Cornerhouse?

Everyone! Cornerhouse attracts a wide audience including lots of young people and students. If you've not been before just come and explore the building - try a new film, have a drink in the café or head upstairs to see our latest exhibition

What are the projects?

Each LiveWire project is different and is chosen by the LiveWire Management Team. Projects range from sound recording to graphic design and are loosely fitted into film, visual art and multi-technology categories.

How long are the projects?

Each project is different and range from one-week projects within a school or college holiday or projects that run once a week on a week night and go on for a couple of months.

When are the projects?

LiveWire projects run throughout the year. Register to receive info on up and coming projects and check the news page too.

How much does it cost?

Nothing. All LiveWire projects are completely FREE and we will also re-imburse your travel expenses.

How many places are there for each project?

Again each project is different but usually there are eight to twelve places available for each project.

Is LiveWire like going to school or college?

No, it’s all about taking part in something that you enjoy and the Workshop Leaders lead the projects in a fun and informal way. Every week thousands of people visit Cornerhouse for films, art, books, food, drink, go to events or pop in to use the toilet on the way to the station! We want you to come along to have fun and explore your creative side.

How do I find out about the projects and events?

Click here to register on this website and you will receive the LiveWire Newsletter which will keep you up to date on future projects and events.

How do I get involved?

If you register on this website you will be sent information on each project with instructions on how to book a place on the project. Alternatively you can use the contact us page with an enquiry.

What is LiveWire Studio?

LiveWire Studio is the part of LiveWire that makes short films. It was set up in 2005 as a result of a successful funding bid to First Light by the LiveWire Management Team. LiveWire Studio functions just like a small professional film studio with young people involved in more than just the filmmaking, but also the film finance, marketing and distribution. Click here for more info on LiveWire Studio.

What kind of films does LiveWire Studio make?

LiveWire Studio produces short films (usually under 10 minutes) from various film genres. Every film is different and is devised by young people and filmmakers together, so you’ll always have the chance to input your ideas.

Do I have to have previous filmmaking experience?

No you don’t need previous experience to get involved. There are a number of different projects run throughout the year. Some are aimed at beginners and others are for those dedicated LiveWire fans who have worked on film projects before. We will always post specific details about each project on the website so you can choose the one that suits you best.

Will I be able to try different roles such as directing and editing during the project?

Yes. We always encourage people to try as many different roles as they can. You will have the chance to get involved with storyboarding, props, camera, sound, directing and editing. Each film also needs a few good designers to create the artwork for posters and DVD cases so everybody has the chance to explore their skills.

What about if I want to concentrate on a specific role?

If you’ve already tried everything and have found the role you love then let us know and we can help you develop in that particular area.

What kind of visual art projects does LiveWire include?

Check out our Doodlebug Day workshop for an example of how visual LiveWire can really get!

What kind of multi-technology projects can I get involved with?

We have run a number of different multi-technology projects from film editing to web design to sound workshops. In the future we hope to expand upon this area of LiveWire and work with technologies such as mobile phones.

Do I need to be familiar with certain computer systems or software?

No, unless you are taking part in a project that requires previous experience.

What is the LiveWire Management Team?

The Management Team are a group of young people who manage LiveWire alongside James Dolan (Cornerhouse's Youth Projects Officer). The team meets regularly to plan events and projects and work on developing LiveWire.

How can I become involved with the Management Team?

Click here to have a look at what the Team are up to and if you are interested in getting involved Contact us and let us know. No experience is necessary just enthusiasm and commitment.