In autumn 2010, a stall at Leeds Kirkgate Market, three shops, a travelling phone box and 10 schools in Leeds became the collection points for Bring the Happy.

The project by artists Invisible Flock recorded the happy memories of thousands of people from all over Leeds, to create a giant interactive map.  This autumn, on Thursday 29 September, at Northern Ballet in Leeds, Bring the Happy will become a live performance, transformed by Invisible Flock, with musician Simon Wainwright, and a chorus of local school children.  

Invisible Flock has worked with Simon Wainwright of local musical phenomenon Hope and Social and other special guests, to produce a portrait of happiness in contemporary Britain, warts and all! The cabaret-style show in which the audience are part of the action&guests at the celebration, will recreate moments of happiness based on real memories, told through live storytelling and music. 30 pupils from Carr Green Primary School in Brighouse will perform a special introduction at the start of the show.  

The map, showing where citizens of Leeds were happiest, will be on public view in the foyer of Northern Ballet from 26-29 September. People can come and add their memory to the map from 2pm Monday 26, and from 8.30am-8.30pm Tues 27–Thurs 29 September.  

Moira Innes, the Director of Leeds Met Gallery and Studio Theatre said: ‘In this austere period, the concept of Bring the Happy is refreshing and essential. The artists’ stated commitment to empower audiences as co-creators is not rhetoric and this genuine involvement gives the work its edge. The fact that so many people from all walks of life wanted to share their happy memories must be good and demonstrates the gentle power of art’. 

Victoria Pratt of Invisible Flock said: ‘Bring the Happy – Live – is part celebration, part funeral for moments in life that were loved, lost and remembered, based on real stories, by real people we met at Leeds Kirkgate Market. The memories shared with us were funny, beautiful and life-affirming and we’re delighted to be able to relive many of these moments that took place right here in Leeds, in a production that puts the audience at the heart of the celebration.’ 

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