All aboard the MS Stubnitz

Elaine and I visited the MS Stubnitz because it was where Midnight Circus aboard the MS Stubnitz was showing. It makes a strange sight, this hefty ship nestled within bright shiny new-looking Canary Wharf buildings. It definitely stands out like a slightly grubby thumb.

But that’s what we liked about it. It’s fair to say it sucks you in from the minute you step onto it. Not only is it an industrial rabbit warren, a veritable maze of door, stairs and ladders, but it is also the ‘child’ of Urs ‘Blo’ Blaser, originally a Swiss sound artist, and now a boat owner.  Of a very ugly boat (sorry, Blo, but it is rather – doesn’t mean we don’t love it though). Big thank you to Heiko for giving us the guided tour.

The MS Stubnitz is one a kind. Like a lonely dinosaur in the modern age, there is none of its type left. Built in 1964 in East Germany as an 80m freeze and transport vessel, it was transformed in 1993 into a unique mobile platform as a ‘Culture Ark’ and place for cultural production and communication. It has capacity for 700 people, 12 sleeping guests and is crewed by paid seamen, and supported by passionate volunteers.

It really isn’t enough for me to say how amazing this ship is. All I can say is you should visit it. Hold an event there, do something crazy (just don’t jump into the water) but it’s a place that relies on events to keep it running so if you know any group or organization that could do something wonderful with the location then totally check it out.

The MS Stubnitz is currently showing Midnight Circus Aboard The MS Stubnitz (read the review here) and is showing the Cabaret of Mechanical Theatre from 13^th March – 26^th March but has also been party to festivals, held very popular electro evenings and art exhibitions. It moves around and will sail off to France in May.

You can see the full calendar of MS Stubnitz events here >

 

 

 

The MS Stubnitz

How much? If you’re looking to hold an event there, you can just pop by. Otherwise, check out the events calendar, prices vary by event.
Why go there? You’ll know you’ll have fun on this floating piece of history. Plus, it’s not hit the masses yet so is still a little-known secret.
Where is it? Currently docked by Canary Wharf, Montgomery Street, Wood Wharf, E14 9SB
When can I see it? Now until May 2013. Then it journeys onto France. But is expected back in June.
Telephone: Sorry, there doesn’t seem to be a telephone number. You should contact them online instead >
Website: http://ms.stubnitz.com/

 

Many thanks to Elaine Kwon Hoo for her avid photo-taking. You are the best person to have around at things like these. Plus, you take better photos than me.