‘we’re here because we’re here’ conceived and created by Turner Prize-winning artist Jeremy Deller in collaboration with Rufus Norris. Photo © Joe Priestley
Commissioned by 14-18 NOW, the incredible ‘we’re here because we’re here‘ was conceived and created by Turner Prize-winning artist Jeremy Deller in collaboration with Rufus Norris, Director of the National Theatre. 2000 volunteers participated and 26 organisations collaborated to make the event happen.
Lasting just 12 hours, over 1400 volunteer participants dressed in historically-accurate uniforms took to the streets of the UK in a modern memorial to mark 100 years since the start of the bloodiest battle of the First World War. The event was produced by Birmingham Repertory Theatre and the National Theatre, working in close collaboration with 27 theatres across the UK.
We’re delighted that the secret event resonated hugely with people all across the UK. #wearehere exceeded 221 million impressions online, with over 97,000 posts on social media. The event trended on Twitter for 14 hours and the website has received over 111,000 visits to date.
