A new exhibition commemorating the 82nd anniversary of the bombing of the National Picture Theatre will go on display at Hull History Centre.
‘Home Front’ will pay tribute to the additional roles taken on by civilians in Hull during WW2 and celebrate the remarkable story of the National Picture Theatre, ahead of its renovation.
Organised by the National Picture Theatre project team at Hull City Council, the exhibition begins on Tuesday 7 March at Hull History Centre, 10am – 2pm and runs until Thursday 9 March.
The exhibition documents the events in detail, through photos, objects and personal stories of the bombing. An array of events and sites tours will also take place at Stepney Station.
Hull was the second most heavily bombed city in the UK after London and was targeted right up to the final night of raids, so the exhibition is expected to resonate deeply with residents.
Residents are encouraged to share their stories and photos at the exhibition.
Councillor Rob Pritchard, Portfolio Holder for Crime, Communities and Culture, said: “This new exhibition explores the extra roles that ordinary people had to do in the city, during the Blitz.
“This exhibition reminds us to learn from history and to think of those who suffered in Hull in 1941.
“I encourage residents, young and old, to come and enjoy this free exhibition about one of Hull’s most bombed and untouched sites in the city.”
Site tours, history talks, and art workshops will all be on offer as part of the exhibition, as well as drop-in family history sessions, where people can share their own stories of life during the Hull Blitz. The workshops will take place at Hull History Centre and Stepney Station, in a fortnight of free events.
Thanks to funding from Hull City Council and The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the National Picture Theatre will be conserved. A flexible area for events and education will be created and a memorial space allowing visitors to learn about the roles civilians played in the Second World War.
Events are taking place on:
- 7 March at Hull History Centre, 1.30 – 3pm. Free, booking essential
Talk on the historic / modern projection by Hull Independent Cinema Company - 8 March at Hull History Centre, 1.30 – 3pm. Free, booking essential
Talk on the history of the National Picture Theatre and renovation project. - 9 March at Hull History Centre, 1.30 – 3pm. Free, booking essential
Cinema doodle workshop by artist Charlotte Eldred - 13 March, 10am – 11.30am. Free, booking essential
Site tour of National Picture Theatre and talk by Hilary and Tom, trustees of NCWW2MT - 14 March, 1.30 – 3pm, Free, booking essential
Stepney Station talk / National Picture Theatre mini model craft workshop
For details of the events on offer, follow the NPT social media channels:
- Twitter @NPTHull
- Facebook: National Picture Theatre
