Manchester's theatres, galleries and museums have paid tribute to Her Majesty the Queen following her death at the age of 96. Intricate plans drawn up for when the Queen passes away, have now begun to be enacted, and will have a major impact on what events are on, and whether shops and venues will open.
On the day of her funeral, which is expected to take place at Westminster Abbey, 10 days after the Queen's death, there will be a bank holiday and most places will shut or will change operating hours. Since the news broke yesterday, there has been an outpouring of grief for the Monarch nationally and internationally.
In Manchester today, as the rain poured down and the bells of Manchester Cathedral began to ring, the city stopped to remember Queen Elizabeth II. Mourners came to the cathedral to pay their respects and to fill the books of condolence with heartfelt messages.
Elsewhere, hospitality businesses shared their condolences online, as did Manchester's many cultural institutions. Manchester Jewish Museum also shared an image of the Queen, which was taken during Her Majesty's visit in 2002.
Likewise, The National Football Museum shared a illustration of the iconic image of The Queen shaking hands with England player Bobby Charlton after lifting the World Cup in 1966. And the Science and Industry Museum shared a picture from when the Queen visited the venue on an official visit in 1982.
Manchester Art Gallery re-shared an image posted by the Royal Family and said: "Our thoughts and condolences ae with the Royal Family at this time." They also shared a link to the Manchester City Council website detailing how people can sign the Book of Condolences.
The Lowry meanwhile said that it was "saddened to hear of the death of HM the Queen", and that performances will continue to go ahead as per guidance from the Royal Family. On the Lowry's website it also explained how LS Lowry was the official artist for the Queen's Coronation in 1953 and Her Majesty was present for the ceremonial opening of the theatre in October 2000.
Many theatres across the country will also continue with performances, but will be dimming their lights and observing a minute's silence in some cases. This is the case for the Ambassador Theatre Group, which includes both The Palace Theatre and Manchester Opera House, who issued a statement saying: "Everyone at Ambassador Theatre Group is saddened to hear the news that Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II has passed away. We send our condolences to the Royal Family and everyone connected to the Her Majesty."
The ATG website statement also confirmed that while performances on Thursday evening would go ahead, customers will be contacted in due course about bookings made for future listings. HOME arts centre added: "We are deeply saddened to hear of the death of HM The Queen and our thoughts are with the Royal Family." There has been no confirmation yet on scheduled productions and films due to we shown over the next ten days."
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