DIGPREVIEW
The much-anticipated city-wide Larkin25 event opens in Hull soon. Marking the 25th anniversary of the great poet's death and taking place over 25 weeks, it includes poetry events, workshops, exhibitions, trails, music events and - of course - giant toads.
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Launch of Larkin25
In the literary world, Philip Larkin was a very significant character, known as a poet, librarian, novelist and even a jazz critic. He was an asset to the city of Hull where he lived for much of his professional and creative life and a credit to the Yorkshire region which inspired so much of his work.
Larkin25 takes place over 25 weeks, to commemorate the 25th anniversary of his death. It includes various workshops, exhibitions, trails, music and poetry events.
The opening gala takes place at Hull Truck Theatre on Saturday the 12th of June. There will be poetry performances from special guests, live jazz music and Barrie Rutter will be the guest lecturer, discussing how Larkin’s passion affected his life and work.
There are various trails and walks planned across Hull, one focusing on 35 sites where Larkin frequently visited or were places of inspiration. There will also be a special toad trail once the ‘Larkin with Toads’ mass participation public art event (inspired by Larkin’s poems Toads and Toads Revisited) is launched, so that you can tour the city visiting the various large, decorated amphibians.
The ‘Larkinalia!’ exhibition will be on display at the Georgian Houses throughout the 25 weeks, giving you an insight into the real Philip Larkin, by looking at a collection of his possessions. The various events and activities all lead up to the 25th anniversary of his death in December, when there will be the unveiling of the new bronze Larkin statue in Hull City Centre.
For a full list of events and activities taking place in and around the city of Hull during the commemorative year, please visit Larkin25’s website here.