BEST EVENT SUNDERLAND

Jan 30 2009 By The Journal

SUNDERLAND AQUATIC CENTRE LAUNCH EVENT

FOLLOWING many years of planning and lobbying, the North East’s first 50m pool was officially launched with a series of celebrations to be proud of on April 17, 2008.

The city council worked with Magnetic Events and the community to put on an indoor and outdoor programme.

Boasting the best that the creative industries in the region and country have to offer, the indoor programme saw the main pool hall transformed into a performing arena via the wonder of lighting and music.

An impressive display of aquabatics followed.

Featuring divers, swimmers and dancers all being inspired by the 1930 choreographer Busby Berkeley and performing to music composed by Hong Kong’s Seaming To, the event was more than memorable.

Outside proceedings provided a chance for all the community to get involved with a display of light projections, fireworks, dancing and outdoor theatre.

Sunderland City councillor Mel Speding said: “This was a fantastic event for the city and highlights
the hard work and dedication that brought the event to Sunderland.

“It marked the official launch of one of the region’s most iconic sporting venues.

“In a spectacle of light, colour, pyrotechnics and choreography, performers were selected from across the region and beyond to take part, which gave the event a strong community focus.

“I am extremely pleased that Sunderland Aquatic Centre Launch Event has been shortlisted in the Best Regional Event category; I feel the event has set a precedent and will encourage similar events to take place in the city, building upon the success the event brought.”