Bluecoat recreates Lennon Bed-In protest

Picture © Trinity Mirror

John & Yoko lookalikes at the Bluecoat Bed-In; YouTube: JMU Journalism TV reports from the Bluecoat

John Lennon’s 70th birthday was celebrated in style as the Bluecoat gallery recreated his famous Bed-In protests with Yoko Ono.

The Bed-In, featuring members of the public, is running for 62 days from Lennon’s birthday to the anniversary of his assassination 30 years ago, on December 8th.

The two week-long Bed-Ins were held by Lennon and Ono in 1969 in Amsterdam and Montreal, using non-violent means of protesting against war and promoting peace.

The Bluecoat Bed In was open to artists, performers or members of the public who have an interest in "non violent action for a better world". Proposals were submitted to the project directors, who have selected the line up for the event.

Hayley Newman and the ‘The Vacuum Cleaner’ were the first to be chosen to launch the event on Saturday. Onlookers were frequently encouraged to join the fun by participating in a dance marathon, nibbling on party food, and painting.

The idea for the party was devised by London-based activists
Hayley, 40, and James, 30, (who is part of the group ‘The
Vacuum Cleaner’) and both believe that it is a good way
of highlighting the message of peace.

James said: “We wanted to do something that was peaceful,
life-affirming and beautiful, so we came up with a party.

"We wanted to dance for as long as possible to free our bodies
and minds. It has given us the opportunity to begin to imagine
what peace is like for ourselves and to imagine something
such as this is really hard.

"It’s about bringing people together with different political,
religious and philosophical beliefs. Whatever our differences
we come together for peace," he added.

Hayley said: “The message that John and Yoko sent out in
1969 is still relevant today it is important and one that needs to
get re-iterated.”

Members of the public seemed to revel in the joyful atmosphere
that the party created and many thought it was an appropriate way to commemorate the Beatles legend

Jim North, 38, Liverpool said: "It is interesting and is very topical and it is where he would have been if he was in Liverpool.”

Stephanie Hodge, 21, Liverpool said: “I think it’s positive and brings the community together and I think that is what John Lennon would have wanted.”

Picture © Trinity Mirror

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