RUHR.2010 - The Finale
THS-Central Administration, Project NT2 - Extension and heightening of Nordstern Shaft 2, Gelsenkirchen, with a sculpture by Markus Lüpertz; Architect: Karl-Heinz Petzinka with Nathalie Ness and René Clasen / Photo: Manfred Vollmer
The title may soon be gone, but the Ruhr as a cultural metropolis lives on, readying itself for the next decade of 'change through culture'. The conclusion to the Ruhr region's successful reign as European Capital of Culture and the advent of a new decade of metropolitan development provide welcome cause or a spectacular programme finale on 18 December: RUHR.2010 revisited.
Main venue: Nordsternpark in Gelsenkirchen. Under the former winding tower, which will - as of this day - be adorned with a new landmark of the Ruhr Metropolis in the form of the Hercules by Markus Lüpertz, RUHR.2010 will once more be offering a reprise under open skies of the events that have marked an extraordinary, moving year. The event is open to the public and specifically the people and populations that have - through projects such as 'Local Heroes', 'Shaft Signs', 'DAY OF SONG' and many more besides - made RUHR.2010 their own, providing support and enthusiasm beyond anything previously experienced in the region. Those wishing to attend will need to get a ticket for admission to the show venue at Nordsternpark. Access around the amphitheatre is free, although for safety reasons the amount of space available will be limited. Following a public viewing of the live show, this is where the Starlight Express Band will be giving its performance.
Gil Mehmert, the director of the amazing opening ceremony held at the Zollverein coking plant on January 9, 2010, will be presenting a filmed journey of all the events, places, faces and emotions encountered in 2010, accompanied by a live ensemble of artists, musicians, singers, actors and extras. But this time it is the façade, roof and winding towers of the former Nordstern colliery buildings that will be providing the stage and backdrop for the finale.
Meanwhile, at the Dortmund U, Duisburg's inner harbour and the world heritage site that is the Zollverein colliery in Essen there will also be major celebrations marking the end of RUHR.2010. Live broadcast links, transmitted by WDR, will also enable these venues to be part of the scene and celebrations in the Nordsternpark.
RUHR.2010 - The Finale
December 18, 2010
The project partner is the WDR broadcasting company.
Tickets for the finale in the Nordsternpark cost €5 and can be obtained at all the usual advance sales outlets. They can also be ordered online at www.ruhr2010-tickets.de (Only available in German)