Museum combines art, music and community to reimagine its history in the heart of Exeter

20 Apr 2018 11:06 AM

The Royal Albert Memorial Museum & Art Gallery (RAMM) celebrates its 150th anniversary as a beacon of art and culture in Exeter by recreating their inaugural, 1868 Carnival of Animals.

RAMM has been awarded £15,000 through our National Lottery funding programme to develop a carnival of large-scale, kinetic animal puppets that will take to the streets on Saturday 21 April. With the help of internationally known carnival experts, Shademakers UK, RAMM involved local schools and communities in the building of the puppets and costumes. These will feature in the procession from Cathedral Green, through the city centre, culminating in an evening of events at the museum. Anyone and everyone is welcome to join.

Cllr Rachel Sutton, Portfolio Holder for Economy and Culture Exeter City Council, said:

This is a time for real celebration for the city of Exeter. We’re immensely proud… RAMM has a special place in the memories of generations of Exonians.

Along with the animals made by the people of Exeter, two creatures have been specially commissioned - a giraffe to represent RAMM’s famous Gerald, and another surprise animal chosen by RAMM’s visitors and supporters.  

The festivities to mark the 150th anniversary will continue throughout the coming weeks, including:

• The Anniversary Concert in Exeter Cathedral, performed by Exeter Music Group Symphony Orchestra, with music inspired by the museum, including, Carnival of the Animals and Night at the Museum.
• A photography exhibition from press and portrait photographer, Jim Wileman showcasing life behind the scenes of the museum
• A children’s book created especially for RAMM by Victoria Byron and Conor Magee, about a little bird named, Alfie, part of the museum’s exhibit that comes to life at night.

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