Brookes Live

On Friday 13 November Brookes Live will see the John Henry Brookes Building taken over by interactive exhibits and live entertainment for a very special public event. As we put the final touches to our plans, here is a preview of what to expect on the night.

On arrival pick up a hot toddy before heading into the John Henry Brookes Building, where Artie, the humanoid robot, will be waiting in the foyer. Choose a prop and pose for our professional photographer, and make sure you look at the Van der Graaf generator and catch a courtroom demonstration before heading to the other floors.

Downstairs in the Forum meet the Oxford Brookes Racing team with their latest car, find out about microscopic photography, watch Brookes TV in action or grab some headphones to dance in our silent disco. Then head to Union Square to a wonderland of science and magic where Lewis Carroll’s characters will come to life, and get inspired to read and write your own story.

Look at the Bamboo Bike and stop for a spot of rowing on your way to the Abercrombie Building, where you can join in a Live Draw or take part in a research project into the effect of rhythmic beats on motor co-ordination.

Back in the John Henry Brookes Building, go up to level 2 to borrow a live ‘book’ and learn about witchcraft, wizardry or werewolves. Look at a selection of treasures from the Library’s Special Collections, and step into the John Henry Brookes Lecture Theatre to hear mini-lectures on subjects including nursing, business, publishing and wildlife conservation.

Level 2 will also host a series of health workshops, where you can learn to save lives, find out about heart and lung health, learn how to communicate with people with dementia, and try on a suit and glasses simulating mobility and visual issues.

Go up another floor for more hands-on discovery: write poetry about work-life balance, design your dream city and help build a fractal sculpture. You can also try on Traak!, an augmented reality device, and have a go at activities developed for prospective students.

There will also be live music and performances throughout the evening, ranging from acoustic guitar and synth music to poetry and hip hop, in Union Bar, Union Hall and Abercrombie.

Food and refreshments will be available from regular campus outlets, with takeaway fish and chips at the Deli, a barbecue in the Central Courtyard, and crêpe and sweet treat pop-up stands.

Make sure you share your photos and thoughts throughout the evening by using #BrookesLive

Join us on Friday 13 November from 4pm to 8pm at the John Henry Brookes Building on our Headington Campus. The event is free and open to everyone.