THE Seamus Heaney HomePlace have announced a special weekend of events to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the award-winning Co Derry poet's death.
Poetry, music and film will be on offer at the arts and literary centre in Bellaghy from August 25 to 27 in "a reflective celebration of Seamus Heaney’s life and work", which will begin with a reading by Pulitzer Prize-winner and current Ireland Chair of Poetry, Paul Muldoon.
Ten award-winning poets from across Ireland and beyond will explore Heaney’s enduring influence in A note that pays you back: Alice Lyons, Niall Campbell, Emma Must, Martin Dyar and Zaffar Kunial will read from their work on the afternoon of on August 26, followed on August 27 by readings from Sarah Clancy, Nandi Jola, Rachel Coventry, Mark Pajak and Owen Sheers.
Renowned Irish traditional composer and musician Colm Mac Con Iomaire will be in concert with special guests on the evening of August 26 before the weekend closes with a screening of Seamus Heaney and The Music of What Happens on August 27.
This feature-length documentary finds Heaney’s wife, Marie, and their three children speaking candidly about their lives with the poet and reading a selection of his work with personal resonance for them. Seamus Heaney’s brothers also reminisce on their childhood growing up in the area, and on the experiences that inspired his earlier writings. Director Adam Low and producer Martin Rosenbaum will be in attendance for a Q&A after the screening.
Speaking on behalf of the Heaney family, Marie Heaney says: “My family and I are honoured and very touched that Seamus will be remembered in this special way at the HomePlace, on his own home ground, and that his 10th anniversary will be marked with a celebration of poetry and music.”
“Seamus Heaney HomePlace is privileged to present this weekend of events," says Brian McCormick, manager of the venue.
"The celebration and power of poetry is at the centre of proceedings and there is music on offer from acclaimed Irish Musician, Colm Mac Con Iomaire. HomePlace is delighted to offer this occasion, which will celebrate and reflect upon the life and legacy of Seamus Heaney."
Councillor Córa Corry, chair of Mid Ulster District Council which owns and operates Seamus Heaney HomePlace, says:
“I am very pleased Seamus Heaney HomePlace is hosting a weekend of events to commemorate the tenth anniversary of the death of Seamus Heaney.
"This promises to be a wonderful weekend in the company of many renowned poets, artists and musicians. The thoughtfully curated events demonstrate the importance of poetry and the influence that Seamus Heaney had in our society.”
Tickets for this special weekend will be on sale from 10am on Monday April 3 via seamusheaneyhome.com.
