Building Hadrian's Lover: From Dream to Reality

When I first dreamed up Hadrian's Lover, I had a simple but powerful vision: create a space where Manchester's LGBTQIA+ community could truly feel at home. Not just another venue, but a place where our stories, our creativity, and our everyday lives could intertwine. A space that says "we see you" without having to shout it from the rooftops.

These past few months have been a whirlwind of planning, dreaming, and (let's be honest) lots of spreadsheets. I want to share where we're at because this isn't just my project – it's our community's space in the making.

The concept has evolved into something really special. Picture this: a 6-month pop-up hub in Manchester's city centre where you might come for a workshop but stay for the conversations. A space where art meets activism, where skills are shared freely, and where our community's diversity isn't just welcomed but celebrated.

We've mapped out every corner of what will be Hadrian's Lover – from a cosy community lounge to a flexible event space, from quiet corners for counselling to vibrant areas for art exhibitions. Each detail has been thought through with our community in mind, creating a space that can transform from a peaceful co-working spot by day to a buzzing event venue by night.

The programming we're developing gets me excited every time I look at it. We're planning regular events that go beyond the usual – think skill-sharing workshops, community support groups, and even a quarterly "No Money Day" where everything is based on trading and sharing rather than spending. It's about creating opportunities for connection, learning, and growth that are accessible to everyone.

What makes me particularly proud is how this space will subtly celebrate our community's culture and history. If you know, you'll know – and if you don't, you'll learn. It's about creating those moments of recognition and belonging that mean so much to us.

Right now, we're in the early stages, building partnerships with incredible organizations and individuals who share our vision. Every conversation opens new possibilities, and the support we're receiving from Manchester's LGBTQIA+ community is honestly humbling.

Of course, there's still plenty to do. We're working on securing funding, finding the perfect location, and getting all the practical bits in place. But with each step, this dream feels more and more real.

I'm sharing this journey because Hadrian's Lover isn't just a space I'm creating – it's a space we're creating together. Whether you're an artist looking to exhibit, someone with skills to share, or just someone who believes in the power of community, there's a place for you here.

Stay tuned for more updates as we move closer to making this dream a reality. And if you want to get involved or just chat about the project, drop me a line. This is just the beginning of something special.