We’re here because we’re here

UK wide (2016)

On 1 July 2016, thousands of volunteers took part in a modern memorial to mark the centenary of the Battle of the Somme. We’re here because we’re here saw around 1,400 voluntary participants dressed in First World War uniform appear unexpectedly in locations across the UK. ‘We’re here because we’re here’ was a UK-wide event commissioned by 14-18 NOW, conceived and created by Turner Prize-winning artist Jeremy Deller in collaboration with Rufus Norris, Director of the National Theatre. Produced by Birmingham Repertory Theatre and the National Theatre, in collaboration with 27 organisations.