Being Human festival 2019 by School of Advanced Study

HUMAN A FESTIVAL OF THE HUMANITIES

S E I R E V O S C T DIS CRE 14â&#x20AC;&#x201C;23

E S &

Led by

In partnership with

NOVEMBER

2019

Contents Director’s welcome

How to use this guide

About the festival

Festival map

Festival broadcasts

Festival preview and launch

International events

Events are listed by region, then alphabetically by town or city, then by date, then by time. Each listing states the event title, the name of the organiser, the date and time, and the name of the venue. The information in this guide is subject to change; please check our website for the most up-to-date information: beinghumanfestival.org.

Hubs

Event listings: Scotland

Event listings: Northern Ireland

Event listings: Wales

Event listings: North East

Event listings: North West

Event listings: Yorkshire and the Humber

Event listings: East Midlands

Event listings: West Midlands

Event listings: East of England

Event listings: South West

Event listings: South East

Event listings: London

Support us

On the cover: ‘Illuminate Gainsborough’, supported by Arts Council England. Images © West Lindsey District Council and Electric Egg.

Follow Being Human twitter.com @BeingHumanFest facebook.com /BeingHumanFest

instagram @beinghumanfest

Booking The majority of our events are free and open to the public, although a fee may apply in a few cases. Some events have limited capacity. Each event description in this guide contains a notice about whether advance booking is required. For complete booking information, please visit our website at beinghumanfestival.org.

Accessibility If you have any questions about whether a specific event is accessible, please contact the organiser of that event; details are provided on the individual event pages at beinghumanfestival.org.

Event podcasts Selected events are recorded and available to view, listen to, or download from iTunes and YouTube. Please check beinghumanfestival.org for details.

Tell us what you think Audience feedback on our events is vital as it helps us to assess our impact and identify potential improvements. Pick up a feedback form at an event, or visit beinghumanfestival.org during the festival to complete the survey online and enter into a prize draw.

#BeingHuman19 Visit beinghumanfestival.org/ e-news-sign-up to join our mailing list and receive the latest information on the festival. Being Human 2017 beinghumanfestival.org

Welcome

Being Human 2019 Director’s welcome

Welcome to Being Human 2019. If you are already a follower of the festival, welcome back! If you are new to what we do, welcome aboard. The Being Human festival exists to help make world-class research in the humanities accessible, engaging and fun for communities across the UK. This means that we work every year with researchers in classics, history, philosophy, literature, languages and more to take their work and shape it into the creative events that you’ll see in this programme. Research in the humanities helps us to understand what it means to be human. Some of the best ways to encounter that research can be by doing what humans do best: going out, having conversations, having fun. Our theme this year is ‘Discoveries and Secrets’. Making discoveries is what research is all about. Sometimes they are large; sometimes they are small. Sometimes they only become apparent after a period of time. But discoveries are made every day, by people working in libraries, archives, museums and universities across the UK. We want to share as many of those discoveries as possible. Our programme this year features everything from LGBTQ+ histories to Moroccan hip hop. We have events exploring the musical traditions of Scottish Travellers in Aberdeen and the secrets of Ladybird books in Loughborough. Shakespeare will be meeting Bollywood in Belfast and people will be having a go on 1980s synthesisers in Bradford. Once again this year we are delighted to be working with partners beyond the borders of the UK. The international strand of our programme extends from Rome to Romania, Australia to the USA. We are particularly pleased to be working with the Universities of Princeton and Melbourne on international ‘hub’ programmes. There are hundreds of events in this programme, including performances, tours, museum takeovers and family-friendly fun. None of this activity would be possible without our festival partners at the Arts & Humanities Research Council and the British Academy. Once again, I would like to thank them for their support. Welcome to the festival! Professor Sarah Churchwell Director, Being Human festival Chair in Public Understanding of the Humanities School of Advanced Study University of London

Being Human 2019

Book online: beinghumanfestival.org

About the festival

About the festival Being Human is the UK’s only national festival of the humanities. Now in its fifth year, it was established in 2014 to share cutting-edge research in the humanities with people and communities across the UK. Our mission is to make the humanities accessible, engaging and fun for all. The festival is led by the School of Advanced Study, University of London – the UK’s national centre for the support of researchers and the promotion of research in the humanities. Being Human runs in partnership with the Arts & Humanities Research Council and the British Academy, who provide the funding that make

many of our events and activities possible. The core festival partnership brings together three of the UK’s major coordinating bodies for humanities research. Every year we allocate small grants to fund festival activities across the UK. We also offer support and guidance to organisers not directly funded by the festival. From our office in Senate House, University of London, the Being Human team provides help and support to organisers, drawing together a national programme of events and activities celebrating humanities research, its contribution to our national culture and its essential role in our everyday lives.

Partners The School of Advanced Study (SAS), University of London, is the UK’s national centre for the promotion and support of research in the humanities. SAS and its nine member institutes offer unparalleled resources, facilities and academic opportunities across a wide range of subject areas for the benefit of the national and international scholarly community. Last year SAS welcomed 892 research fellows and associates, held 1,903 events highlighting the latest research in the humanities, received 25.9 million online visits to its research resources and platforms, and hosted 173,493 visits to its specialist libraries and collections. The School also leads Being Human, the UK’s only nationwide festival of the humanities. Find out more at sas.ac.uk. The Arts & Humanities Research Council, which is part of UK Research and Innovation, funds world-class, independent researchers in a wide range of subjects: history, archaeology, digital content, philosophy, 2

languages, design, heritage, area studies, the creative and performing arts, and much more. This financial year the AHRC will spend approximately £98 million to fund research and postgraduate training, in collaboration with a number of partners. The quality and range of research supported by this investment of public funds not only provides social and cultural benefits and contributes to the economic success of the UK but also to the culture and welfare of societies around the globe. You can find out more at ahrc.ukri.org. The British Academy is the voice of the humanities and social sciences. The Academy is an independent fellowship of world-leading scholars and researchers; a funding body for research, nationally and internationally; and a forum for debate and engagement. For further information, please visit britishacademy.ac.uk. Being Human 2019

This year, the festival features more than 200 events organised by 71 universities and research organisations in partnership with over 200 cultural and community groups in 54 cities and towns across the UK. Our five festival hubs are based in Dundee, Lincoln, Sheffield, Swansea and London.

Scotland p12 Aberdeen Dundee Edinburgh Kirkwall

North East p23 Berwick-upon-Tweed Newcastle upon Tyne Seaton Delaval Sunderland

Northern Ireland p18

Yorkshire and the Humber p28

Belfast

Bradford Leeds Sheffield York

North West p25

Chester Manchester Keswick Southport Liverpool

East Midlands p30 Derby Lincoln Gainsborough Loughborough Grantham Nottingham Leicester

East of England p36

Wales p19 Bangor Cardiff Llandeilo Merthyr Tydfil St Nicholas Swansea

Cambridge Colchester Happisburgh Norwich

London p42

West Midlands p34 Birmingham Wolverhampton Worcester

Being Human 2019

South East p39 South West p38 Bristol Exeter

Brighton Canterbury Guildford Margate

Oxford Portchester Reading Southampton

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Festival map

Festival broadcasts

Free Thinking, BBC Arts & Ideas and BBC Radio 3 Broadcast dates: Tuesday 12 November, Wednesday 13 November, Thursday 14 November, 22:00 and Sunday 17 November, 17:30

For Being Human 2019, BBC Radio 3’s flagship programme ‘Free Thinking’ will broadcast a series of special programmes picking up on research being showcased in the festival. Episodes will look at love stories from the Renaissance to modern dating and at news and history, looking back at old newspapers and archives and exploring whether we need new formats. An episode will also be recorded on location in Margate, host to this year’s Turner Prize and to a series of Being Human events exploring some of the secrets of this fascinating seaside town. These programmes will all be available as BBC Arts & Ideas podcasts from BBC Sounds. In addition, Radio 3’s 'Words and Music' will take the festival's theme of 'Discoveries and Secrets' as its cue for an edition broadcast on Sunday 17 November. It will lead listeners on a journey through readings from across the centuries from fiction, non-fiction and poetry set alongside music from jazz and world music to classical and contemporary. bbc.co.uk/programmes/b0144txn

BBC Ideas This year we are delighted to be collaborating on the production of two short films with BBC Ideas exploring secrets and discoveries. Producing short films for curious minds, BBC Ideas is a digital video website centred on exploring ideas that challenge and inform. Two films based on this year’s Being Human festival will be available on bbc.com/ideas.

Being Human 2019

Being Human 2019 , University of Liverpool. Being Human festival 2015. 'Being supernaturalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

Being Human festival preview

‘Victorian Light Night’ © TORCH, The Oxford Research Centre in the Humanities. Being Human festival 2018.

Being Human 2019

Festival preview and launch

Festival preview 'Are the Humanities for Us?' Wednesday 30 October, 18:30–20:00 Rich Mix, 35–47 Bethnal Green Road, Shoreditch, London E1 6LA Free | Booking required The humanities help us to understand the human world; they enrich society and lead to a deeper engagement with the cultures around us. Yet how open are the humanities themselves? What barriers prevent some from undertaking humanities research and gaining a place in associated careers and industries? Who is being left out and what is being done to make change happen? In this preview event, organised by Being Human in collaboration with the mentoring charity and network Arts Emergency, a diverse panel of industry experts and researchers will debate the question ‘are the humanities for us?’ Throughout the evening some of the young people working with Arts Emergency will give short performances and readings, sharing their thoughts and hopes about future studies and careers.

Being Human festival launch Thursday 14 November, 18:30–20:00 The Foundling Museum, 40 Brunswick Square, Bloomsbury, London WC1N 1AZ We will be toasting the start of the festival in style with an evening of snippets from our ‘Discoveries and Secrets’-themed programme. Drawing together highlights that span everything from Victorian humour to Moroccan hip hop, we will be presenting an evening of secrets, discoveries and surprises to start the festival at a special event in London’s Foundling Museum. A limited number of public tickets will be made available. Check online for details.

Being Human 2019

Book online: beinghumanfestival.org

International events

International events Australia: University of Melbourne Being Human Melbourne: Discoveries and Secrets Thursday 14 November–Saturday 23 November Exploring the theme ‘Discoveries and Secrets’, the 2019 University of Melbourne hub will highlight the essential role that humanities research plays in shaping the world in which we live. Arts at Melbourne has a proud history of supporting the humanities and a commitment to innovative research, teaching and outreach. For this year's festival, activities will draw on research from across the humanities to celebrate and debate what it means to be human, engaging the public with imagination and creativity, critical thinking and intellectual rigour, persuasive argument and concern for others.

USA: Princeton University Being Human Princeton: Discoveries and Secrets November–December From November to early December, Princeton will host the Being Human hub in the USA for the second year in a row. Led by the Princeton University Humanities Council, the home of creative, transformative scholarship and teaching for half a century, the programme will enliven humanities scholarship for the public. Inventive activities will feature tristate area organisations including museums, galleries, libraries, schools, businesses and non-profits, in collaboration with university partners. What might ordinary aspects of life conceal? Which mysteries should stand untouched? When does silence demand justification? Gripped by such questions among many others, they will investigate discoveries and secrets together.

Being Human 2019

International events

Romania: Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu and the University of Wolverhampton Proust in Transylvania Friday 8 November Smell is central to Dracula, the novel that made Transylvania famous: ‘Lucy lay in her coffin, strewn with the wild garlic flowers, which sent, through the odour of lily and rose, a heavy, overpowering smell into the night.’ Based on research into the so-called 'Proust Phenomenon', which suggests that odours can reactivate childhood memories, participants are invited to take part in an interactive psychological experiment that collects Transylvanian smells and tastes that trigger childhood memories. From țuică (plum brandy) to hencleș (traditional cake), the public will encounter different Transylvanian smells and be asked to describe their memories. The event includes a talk about the role of smell in Dracula.

Italy: British School at Rome Open Academy, Open Valley Friday 11 October The Valle Giulia area in Rome is a true place of discoveries and secrets. Bordered on one side by the Villa Borghese, which contains the famous Galleria Borghese, gardens and a replica of the Globe Theatre, it is also home to a number of academies that generate and promote research into the humanities. This year, the British School at Rome will be leading a guided walk through the valley with stops at each academy. Participating institutions will reveal an object from their collections that communicates something of its history in relation to the festival theme. The journey between stops will be animated by experts in the local area who will encourage participants to share their thoughts and responses to the objects on view. The walk will culminate in tea at the British School at Rome.

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Hubs

Hubs Being Human festival hubs feature series of events and activities that respond to the festival theme in imaginative and exciting ways, and help to spread the festival spirit across the UK. University of Dundee The Aquatic City, pp 12â&#x20AC;&#x201C;13 The Tay is a dark and eerie river with an ignoble history of bridge disasters, whaling, pirating and shipwrecks. But its biggest surprise has yet to reach the surface: a Scottish Atlantis has thrived beneath the water this whole time. In this imaginative series of events, University of Dundee researchers will explore everything from sea monsters to Scottish folk songs, graphic novels to magic lanterns.

University of Lincoln Moving Stories: Discovering Lives Lived Differently, pp 30â&#x20AC;&#x201C;33 Researchers from the University of Lincoln share stories of migration, inspiration, resilience and imagination in this interactive series of events that will explore the different ways in which human lives can be lived. You will be able to discover life in a Victorian asylum, a Roman villa or a migrant detention centre, and find out how art, literature and music can help people enrich and transform their lives.

Being Human 2019

Hubs

Queen Mary University of London and King’s College London This Time It’s Personal, pp 42–51 Language, stories, art or home. Which of these make you unique? Do you share them with the world or keep them hidden? Queen Mary University of London and King’s College London’s Arts and Humanities Research Institute have joined forces to uncover the personal side of the issues shaping our world today. Through workshops, exhibitions, performances and interactive events, explore Arab hip hop, refugee stories and how creativity underpins modern medicine.

The University of Sheffield Myth, Dream, Love, pp 28–29 Myths, dreams and past loves come to life in this series of events that will immerse you in historical, imaginative and fictional worlds through poetry, theatre, food and music. Join researchers from The University of Sheffield and discover what it was like to attend a royal Jacobean banquet, to daydream in the Renaissance period or to live your life as a selkie.

Swansea University Rediscovering Swansea: From Land to Sea, pp 20–22 Join researchers from the Swansea University for a family-friendly series of events that will take you on adventures across land and sea. Get set to uncover fascinating facts and sinister secrets about life on board the Mary Rose, pirates in the Mediterranean and how to race a Tudor-themed self-propelled motor boat. On land, rediscover the copperworks at the Richard Burton Archives, or enter the ‘Chamber of Secrets’ if you dare.

Being Human 2019

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Scotland

Scotland M U LT I - F O R M AT | D U N D E E

Sea Creatures, Great and Small Organised by the University of Dundee Saturday 16 November, 10:00–17:00 Dundee Science Centre | Booking required Series: The Aquatic City This take-over event at Dundee Science Centre includes all of the regular interactive gizmos and gadgets, plus some special water-themed activities, including monstrous crafts and drawing, pop-up performances and talks, face-painting, and more. Also see the new permanent whale exhibition. FA M I LY | D U N D E E

All Aboard Me ‘Arties! PERFORMANCE | ABERDEEN

Barrie Nicht: Remembering Stanley Robertson Organised by the University of Aberdeen Saturday 16 November, 18:30–21:30 The Lemon Tree | Booking required In this special performance a cast of storytellers, singers and researchers will remember the legendary Scottish Traveller, singer and storyteller Stanley Robertson and celebrate his contribution to local, national and international folk culture. M U LT I - F O R M AT | D U N D E E

The Aquatic City’s Well of Ideas Organised by the University of Dundee Thursday 14 November–Saturday 23 November, 15:00–18:00 Wellgate Shopping Centre | No booking required Series: The Aquatic City This festival-long shopping centre hub will celebrate Dundee’s aquatic heritage through hands-on activities, performances, handpress printing and more. Expect everything from fishy crafts to face painting and stories by, and for, folk young and old.

Organised by the University of Dundee Saturday 16 November, 14:00–15:30 Tower Building, University of Dundee | Booking required Series: The Aquatic City A fun and creative afternoon of storytelling and illustration with the university archives, inspired by the whaling collections. Handle old documents, play a sailing board game, and create your own sea-faring adventures. Suitable for ages 8–14. M U LT I - F O R M AT | D U N D E E

The Tay Treasure Hunt & Beach Clean Organised by the University of Dundee Sunday 17 November, 9:00–11:00 Broughty Castle (outside) | Booking required Series: The Aquatic City Meet at Broughty Castle for four events in one! Come along for a treasure hunt (of fake treasures recovered from a fantastical civilisation living in the Tay), a beach clean, an open-air walking tour and a forum for improvised storytelling.

Being Human 2019

Scotland

Scotland SCREENING | DUNDEE

'What Lurks Beneath' Organised by the University of Dundee Sunday 17 November, 11:00–12:00 Dundee Contemporary Arts | Booking required Series: The Aquatic City An homage to the weird and wonderful world of B-movies, this short faux-documentary splices together classic clips with new footage to tell the ludicrously fake story of the mysteries lurking in the eerie River Tay. SCREENING | DUNDEE

'Song of the Sea' Organised by the University of Dundee Sunday 17 November, 13:00–15:00 Dundee Contemporary Arts | Booking required Series: The Aquatic City Saoirse is a selkie, a creature that lives as a seal in the sea but sheds its skin to become a human on land. Without her sealskin, Saoirse falls ill. Can she find her way home before it’s too late? Rated PG. PERFORMANCE | DUNDEE

'River of Words' with the Wyvern Poets Organised by the University of Dundee Wednesday 20 November, 17:00–19:00 The Global Room, College Hall | Booking required Series: The Aquatic City An evening of poetry inspired by the eerie and majestic River Tay, in association with the Wyvern Poets Writing Group Dundee, who will read pieces from their pamphlet, River of Words. Includes an open mic session and wine.

Being Human 2019

HUB | DUNDEE

The Aquatic City

Organised by the University of Dundee The Tay is a dark and eerie river with an ignoble history of bridge disasters, whaling, pirating and shipwrecks. But its biggest surprise has yet to reach the surface, a Scottish Atlantis has thrived beneath the water this whole time. In this imaginative series of events, University of Dundee researchers will explore everything from sea monsters to Scottish folk songs, graphic novels to magic lanterns. LAU NCH | DU N DEE

'Water Worlds' Comic Book Launch Organised by the University of Dundee Thursday 21 November, 18:00–20:00 Dundee Comics Creative Space | Booking required Series: The Aquatic City Dundee Comics Creative Space hosts the launch of Water Worlds, the latest comic book produced during the Being Human festival. The comic comprises contributions by local artists and competition winners. The sea is truly a site of terrors and wonders. M U LT I - F O R M AT | DUNDEE

Sails, Whales and Tails! Organised by the University of Dundee Friday 22 November, 18:00–19:30 Saturday 23 November, 14:00–15:30 The Steps Theatre | Booking required Series: The Aquatic City Watch as a fantastical world of exploration opens up before your eyes, from Dundee to infinity and beyond. This magic lantern show also includes explanatory talks and a chance to take a closer look at the equipment. Suitable for all ages.

Book online: beinghumanfestival.org

Scotland

Scotland EXHIBITION | EDINBURGH

PA N E L | E D I N B U R G H

Greeks in Edinburgh

Calling Time On Gender-Based Violence

Organised by Bangor University Thursday 14 November–Saturday 23 November, 12:00–23:00 The Safari Lounge, Edinburgh | No booking required This exhibition focuses on the interaction between Greeks in Edinburgh and other ethnic groups living in the city since the UK's EU membership referendum. It explores how interaction in work and leisure has helped to bring people together in divided times. M U LT I - F O R M AT | E D I N B U R G H

Eating Under Fire: Food in WWII Britain and Italy Organised by the School of Advanced Study, University of London Thursday 14 November, 18:00–20:00 Italian Institute of Culture Explore the food that people were eating during the War in Britain and Italy. Uncover the types of bread, coffee, tea and other food available and stay for a performance based on diaries and memoirs of people living at the time. DISCUSSION | EDINBURGH

Your Robot Doctor Will See You Now Organised by the University of Edinburgh Thursday 14 November, 19:00–20:30 Summerhall | Booking required Series: Beyond Bodies Explore how artificial intelligence is shaping the future of healthcare. Would you trust a robotic carer or believe a diagnosis from an electronic device? Bring along your phone to have your say on everything from digital diagnoses to robotic surgeons.

Organised by the University of Edinburgh Thursday 14 November, 19:00–20:30 National Museum of Scotland | Booking required This event explores the spread of gender-based violence, from so-called ‘honour killings’ in India and transphobia in Brazil to domestic abuse in Scotland. An international panel investigates the sources of this threat and considers responses from communities and NGOs. PERFORMANCE | EDINBURGH

The Remarkable Deliverances of Alice Thornton Organised by the University of Edinburgh Thursday 14 and Saturday 16 November, 19:00–20:30 Scottish Storytelling Centre | Booking required Yorkshire, 1668. Mrs Alice Thornton begs your presence at a defence of her life, including 20 miraculous deliverances from death and a most dreadful scandal. Followed by Q&A. The performance on 14 November will be livestreamed. Suitable for ages 12+. WORKSHOP | EDINBURGH

Tracking Sounds and Soundtracks Organised by Heriot-Watt University Friday 15 November, 12:30–14:00 Riccarton Campus | Booking required Series: Streaming New Voices Create your own soundtrack in this hands-on workshop. Build a background track for recorded stories or songs by sampling sounds from the Riccarton Campus: from the beautiful woodland, lake and meadow to more everyday spaces such as the car park, laboratory and sports centre. Being Human 2019

Scotland

Scotland DISCUSSION | EDINBURGH

Discoveries and Secrets: Egyptian Archaeology Organised by National Museums Scotland Saturday 16 November, 14:00–15:30 National Museum of Scotland | Booking required Join a panel of speakers as they discuss Scottish contributions to archaeology in Egypt, including new research on pioneering excavator Alexander Henry Rhind, exciting discoveries made during the museum's review of Egyptian collections across Scotland and current excavation work in Egypt. WA L K | E D I N B U R G H

Finding Our Selves in Nature Organised by Heriot-Watt University Monday 18 November, 12:30–16:00 Holyrood Park | Booking required Series: Streaming New Voices In this outdoor walk and workshop you will discover how landscapes are connected with the self. Explore how nature connects us to non-humans and improves emotional wellbeing. Meet outside the Scottish Parliament. Weather dependent. WORKSHOP | EDINBURGH

Haunting Our Bodies Organised by the University of Edinburgh Monday 18 November, 18:00–19:30 Scottish Storytelling Centre | Booking required Series: Beyond Bodies Illness and memories of being ill can ‘haunt’ our bodies physically and emotionally. In this workshop, explore trauma and wellness through graphic novel examples and create comics that will help you tell your own story in graphic novel form.

Being Human 2019

WORKSHOP | EDINBURGH

Exploring Cultural Commoning Organised by Heriot-Watt University Tuesday 19 November, 16:00–17:30 Scottish Storytelling Centre | Booking required Series: Streaming New Voices This interactive workshop explores, with full audience involvement, ways of discovering ‘cultural commons’ through play and dance. Cultural commons are shared cultural resources that belong to us all. Come along to find out more. Weather permitting the workshop will be partly outdoors. FOOD AND DRINK | EDINBURGH

Discovery Ceilidh Organised by Heriot-Watt University Tuesday 19 November, 19:00–21:30 Scottish Storytelling Centre | Booking required Series: Streaming New Voices Traditional culture can bring people together or create barriers. This ceilidh (gathering) combines radical hospitality and creative generosity to bridge divides between cultures, mentalities and disciplines. Come ready to get involved in a surprising evening of entertainment and exploration. Book online: beinghumanfestival.org

Scotland

Scotland WORKSHOP | EDINBURGH

Finding their Voices in the City Organised by Heriot-Watt University Thursday 21 November, 14:00–15:30 National Records of Scotland | Booking required Series: Streaming New Voices Using sources from archives and collections to locate communities in their historical places, this workshop traces creative networks in the city, finding links with contemporary creativity and place identity. WORKSHOP | EDINBURGH

Bedtime Stories for the Brain

WORKSHOP | EDINBURGH

Hidden Island Treasures Organised by Heriot-Watt University Wednesday 20 November, 12:30–14:00 Riccarton Campus | Booking required Series: Streaming New Voices This interactive workshop engages with the ‘New Connections’ virtual museum of maritime heritage in the Northern Isles. Using exhibits displayed at Heriot-Watt University, participants will develop fresh perspectives on heritage-making as a resource for sustainable communities and places.

Organised by the University of Edinburgh Thursday 21 November, 18:00–19:30 Scottish Storytelling Centre | Booking required Series: Beyond Bodies We are told to ‘look after’ our brains. But what do people think this means, and what are the implications for individuals and cultures? Discover more and work with a storytelling expert to write a bedtime story for your brain.

SCREENING | EDINBURGH

Transplants & HIV on Screen Organised by the University of Edinburgh Wednesday 20 November, 17:30–20:00 Edinburgh Filmhouse | Booking required Series: Beyond Bodies A special screening of Spanish classic All About My Mother and post-show discussion exploring the film’s themes around organ transplantation and HIV. Discussion will be led by researchers from the ‘Transplant Imaginaries’ project. 16

Being Human 2019

Scotland

Scotland WORKSHOP | EDINBURGH

E X H I B I T I O N | K I R K WA L L

Scotland’s Secret Sounds

Get Your Tweed Out!

Organised by Heriot-Watt University Friday 22 November, 14:00–15:30 National Library of Scotland | Booking required Series: Streaming New Voices Discovering new routes of song transmission, from archive sources to performance, this workshop explores interactions between living traditions and archives. Come along to sing songs (in English, Gaelic and Scots), and learn about accessible archival resources.

Organised by Robert Gordon University Saturday 16 November, 10:00–16:00 Orkney Library and Archive | No booking required Come along to Orkney Library to discover more about Orkney tweed, the people who made it and the fashion media that celebrated it. Events include an exhibition, talks about Orkney tweed and a chance to share your own garments and the stories behind them.

WORKSHOP | EDINBURGH

Makin’ Babies and the Law Organised by the University of Edinburgh Saturday 23 November, 14:00–16:00 Summerhall | Booking required Series: Beyond Bodies In this zine making workshop, explore feminist critiques of the laws regulating fertility treatment, and the consequences this regulation can have for people who produce eggs (women, trans, non-binary). Contribute pages to a zine addressing the issues discussed.

Being Human 2019

Book online: beinghumanfestival.org

Northern Ireland

EX H I BITION | BELFAST

Shakespeare’s Indian Connections Organised by Queen’s University Belfast Thursday 14 November– Saturday 23 November, 9:30–17:30 Linen Hall Library | No booking required This free walk-in public exhibition showcases Indian representations of Shakespeare’s works. From stage props and costumes, to translations and comics in Indian languages, artists will unfold their performance secrets, archives will be revealed, and worlds will come to light. WORKSHOP | BELFAST

Stitches and Stories Organised by The Open University Saturday 23 November, 10:30–13:30 Ulster Museum Belfast | Booking required Come stitch with us! At this beginner-friendly event you will hand-stitch a patchwork map of Belfast. In keeping with Belfast’s rich industrial heritage, you will work with upcycled vintage Irish linen. Stitch and share your memories of the city.

Being Human 2019

Wales

Wales WORKSHOP | BANGOR

WORKSHOP | LLANDEILO

Dear Memory...

The Mind in the Cave

Organised by Bangor University Thursday 14 November, 18:00–20:00 Powis Hall, Bangor University | No booking required Get ready to explore and create memories in this interactive workshop about landscape, writing and memory. Byddwch yn barod i deithio drwy atgofion, a chreu rhai newydd, mewn gweithdy rhyngweithiol am dirwedd, ysgrifennu, a chof. An English speaking event.

Organised by Cardiff University Sunday 17 November, 11:00–15:00 The Old Laundry, National Trust Dinefwr | Booking required In this hands-on workshop get creative and reproduce cave paintings that were drawn and painted in secrecy and darkness tens of thousands of years ago. Work with artists and ancient materials while learning about these strange and beautiful images.

WORKSHOP | CARDIFF

Facing History Organised by Cardiff University Friday 15 November, 17:30–19:00 Please check online for venue | No booking required Explore a small portrait exhibition of runaway convicts from 1830s New South Wales before turning your hand to the pen. Create convict profiles based on official newspaper descriptions and give faces to the official records by drawing your own portraits.

Being Human 2019

WA L K | M E R T H Y R T Y D F I L

Ghosts in the Machine Organised by Cardiff University Saturday 16 November, 13:00–16:00 Meet at Canolfan Soar | Booking required This walking tour of the former iron-working town of Merthyr Tydfil will look at the hidden histories of its industrial past. Afterwards join a creative writing session where you can construct your own imaginative responses to the encounters.

Book online: beinghumanfestival.org

Wales

Wales WORKSHOP | ST NICHOLAS

W O R KS H O P | SWA N S E A

The Mind in the Cave

Discover Your Creativity

Organised by Cardiff University Saturday 23 November, 11:00–16:00 The Cory Education Centre, National Trust Dyffryn Gardens | Booking required In this hands-on workshop get creative and reproduce cave paintings that were drawn and painted in secrecy and darkness tens of thousands of years ago. Work with artists and ancient materials while learning about these strange and beautiful images.

Organised by Swansea University Friday 15 November, 14:00–16:00 National Waterfront Museum | Booking required Series: Rediscovering Swansea: From Land to Sea At this writing workshop create poetry and prose and contribute to a writing collage on themes such as secrets, place and life in Swansea. This event is for adults who self-identify as having a disability or chronic health condition.

TA L K | SWA N S E A

Organised by Swansea University Saturday 16 November–Saturday 23 November Swansea City Centre | No booking required Series: Rediscovering Swansea: From Land to Sea A family-friendly book hunt across the city of Swansea. In the run up to Swansea University’s 100th birthday, one hundred books will be hidden where you'd least expect to find them. Finders, keepers!

Assassinations Past & Present Organised by Swansea University Thursday 14 November, 19:00–20:00 Cinema & Co | Booking required Series: Rediscovering Swansea: From Land to Sea This event will delve into the use of assassination from Medieval to modern times. Through an interactive talk, performances and a quiz, explore methods deployed by assassins including red hot pokers and poisoned toothpaste! Suitable for ages 16+.

S C AV E N G E R H U N T | S WA N S E A

Swansea’s Big Book Find

Being Human 2019

Wales

Wales FA M I LY | S WA N S E A

Aaarrtt on the High Seas Organised by Swansea University Saturday 16 November, 11:00– 15:00 Glynn Vivian Art Gallery | No booking required Series: Rediscovering Swansea: From Land to Sea All aboard for a fun-filled day of fantastical activities and adventures on the high seas, celebrating the Glynn Vivian’s new exhibition ‘The Mary Rose: People and Purpose’. Discover fascinating facts and sinister secrets about life on board this infamous ship. P E R F O R M A N C E | SWA N S E A

Becoming Human: Pinocchio Retold

H U B | SWA N S E A

Rediscovering Swansea: From Land to Sea Organised by Swansea University

Join researchers from the Swansea University for a family-friendly series of events that will take you on adventures across land and sea. Get set to uncover fascinating facts and sinister secrets about life on board the Mary Rose, pirates in the Mediterranean and how to race a Tudor-themed self-propelled motor boat. On land, rediscover the copperworks at the Richard Burton Archives, or enter the Chamber of Secrets if you dare.

Organised by Swansea University Monday 18 November, 19:00–20:00 Volcano Theatre | Booking required Series: Rediscovering Swansea: From Land to Sea This performance tells the story of Pinocchio, set against the demands of modern Western society and following his footsteps from birth to adulthood. It is a journey of self-discovery, where the secrets of Pinocchio’s true self are revealed. Suitable for ages 12+.

Being Human 2019

Book online: beinghumanfestival.org

Wales

Wales PA N E L | S WA N S E A

M U S I C | SWA N S E A

The Panic Room

Now I Become Myself

Organised by Swansea University Tuesday 19 November, 19:00–20:00 Swansea Museum | Booking required Series: Rediscovering Swansea: From Land to Sea Listen to a discussion uncovering the secret plans of Hitler’s Werwolf and the brilliance of Sherlock Holmes. Then explore a simulated panic room and be unnerved by how life is lived through half-truths, entrapment, lies, decoding and escape.

Organised by Swansea University Wednesday 20 November, 19:00–20:30 The Great Hall, Swansea University | Booking required Series: Rediscovering Swansea: From Land to Sea Rhian Samuel will talk about her discoveries as a classical music composer, discussing a time when women composers were an extreme rarity compared to their greater prevalence today. There will also be performances of music composed by women. W O R KS H O P | SWA N S E A

The Climate’s Hidden History Organised by Swansea University Thursday 21 November, 10:00–14:30 Wallace Building, Swansea University | Booking required Series: Rediscovering Swansea: From Land to Sea Listen to a talk on the hidden secrets of the planet found in the depths of the ice fields and then take part in a poetry workshop based on your discoveries of the Earth’s past and future. A Welsh language event. FA M I LY | S WA N S E A

Enter the Chamber of Secrets Organised by Swansea University Saturday 23 November, 14:00–16:00 Taliesin Art Centre and The Egypt Centre, Swansea University | Booking required Series: Rediscovering Swansea: From Land to Sea Do you dare to enter the chamber of secrets for this fun family afternoon? Jam-packed with activities, take part in mystery writing workshops, create your own digital narratives and discover the secrets of hieroglyphs.

Being Human 2019

North East

North East WORKSHOP | BERWICK-U PONTWEED

When the Cows Came Home Organised by Newcastle University Monday 18 November, 14:00–16:30 The Maltings | Booking required Come and share memories of cattle and sheep at this oral history workshop exploring how these animals have featured in our daily lives. What do you think has changed? Or stayed the same? Listen to clips from archives and contribute your own experiences to the conversation. M U S E U M / G A L L E RY L AT E | NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE

Unearthing Lowick Lime Organised by Northumbria University Friday 22 November, 18:00–19:30 Baltic 39 | Booking required At this gallery late engage with Northumberland’s industrial heritage through a workshop and an exhibition. Explore artworks inspired by the region’s industrial past and learn from contemporary artists about the resurgence of using lime today. WORKSHOP | NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE

Mapping Migration Stories Organised by Northumbria University Saturday 23 November, 11:00–13:00 Discovery Museum | Booking required At this family-friendly workshop explore migration stories as you create communal artworks and try your hand at calligraphy. Get inspiration from the Discovery Museum’s new exhibition as you draw out historical journeys of migration.

Being Human 2019

EXHIBITION | NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE

Dancing on the Tyne Organised by Northumbria University Thursday 14 November–Saturday 23 November Literary and Philosophical Society | No booking required Series: Dancing on the Tyne Rediscover Newcastle’s ‘Scottish’ dance tunes, composed by 18th-century dancing master Abraham Mackintosh. Visit the exhibition to discover the local people who inspired Mackintosh’s tunes and find out why ‘Scottish’ dances became popular entertainment. See online for details of the ‘Open Evening’ event including participatory dancing. P E R F O R M A N C E | S E AT O N D E L AVA L

The Georgians’ Marvellous Medicines Organised by Northumbria University Saturday 16 November, 10:00–11:00 and 14:00– 15:00 Seaton Delaval Hall | Booking required Join Mistress Slurp, who needs your help finding the perfect prescription for pimples and pox, at this Georgian performance full of comedy and capers for all the family. Also complete the family treasure hunt throughout the day and discover marvellous medical ingredients. Book online: beinghumanfestival.org

North East

North East TA L K | S U N D E R L A N D

Coffee and Sedition Organised by the University of Sunderland Friday 15 November, 13:00–14:00 Cole Café and Deli | Booking required Series: Canny Sunderland: Discover the History of Sunderland Get comfortable in a modern coffeehouse and listen to how coffee was first introduced to 17th-century England, leading to the rise of these establishments. Reflect on the differences between modern coffeehouses and the original places dedicated to its consumption. SECRET CITY SERIES

Canny Sunderland: Discover the History of Sunderland Organised by the University of Sunderland

This special series of events will encourage people to unearth and share knowledge, and to discover lesser known aspects of local history. From the role of Sunderland in the Anglo-Saxon world to its part in the rise of women’s rights, Sunderland has a rich history that connects it to wider changes across the country and further afield.

TA L K | S U N D E R L A N D

How Wearmouth Saved the West Organised by the University of Sunderland Thursday 21 November, 12:30–13:30 St Peter's Church | Booking required Series: Canny Sunderland: Discover the History of Sunderland Listen to historian and filmmaker Michael Wood discuss a golden age of Northumbrian culture when Wearmouth was one of the powerhouses of AngloSaxon civilisation. Learn how its library was the envy of Europe and why this legacy still matters today. TA L K | S U N D E R L A N D

DISCUSSION | SUNDERLAND

Sunderland’s Unsung Heroes Organised by the University of Sunderland Thursday 14 November, 12:00–13:00 Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens | Booking required Series: Canny Sunderland: Discover the History of Sunderland Hear about the achievements of Sunderland’s first female MP, Dr Marion Phillips, who recently received a heritage blue plaque in the city. Then get involved and nominate your own ‘unsung hero’ to add to an exhibition of DIY blue plaques.

A New Vision of the World Organised by the University of Sunderland Friday 22 November, 14:00–15:00 Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens | Booking required Series: Canny Sunderland: Discover the of History Sunderland Come and celebrate Sunderland born Joseph Swan at this talk about the great entrepreneur and businessman. Swan is best known for inventing the incandescent light bulb, but learn how his pioneering work with photography created a new vision of the world. Being Human 2019

North West

North West M U LT I - F O R M AT | C H E S T E R A N D YORK

Northern England’s Linguistic Heritage Organised by the University of Cambridge and Cardiff University Saturday 16 November, 10:00–15:30 | Unity Centre, Chester Sunday 17 November, 10:00–16:00 | Barley Hall, York No booking required In two workshops in Chester and York, explore the impact of the Vikings on the words used in northern England. The two events feature a wide range of activities for the whole family (arts and crafts, language games, storytelling and talks). M U LT I - F O R M AT | K E S W I C K

Drawn from the Ground Organised by Lancaster University Saturday 16 November and Sunday 17 November, 11:00–15:00 Keswick Museum | Booking required Discover the secrets of graphite, one of the world’s most curious minerals. Experiment with this precious substance to make your own pencils and electrify your drawings. Explore graphite’s Lake District connections and its historical use in industry, medicine and art. M U LT I - F O R M AT | L I V E R P O O L

Fern Crazy Organised by Liverpool John Moores University Thursday 14 November, 10:00–17:00 Sefton Park Palm House | No booking required Discover the Victorian passion for ferns through a range of family-friendly activities and exhibits at Sefton Park Palm House. Explore forgotten crafts, stories, and objects. Spot the fern fairies or join one of the family planting sessions to help create a fernery for a new generation. Being Human 2019

M U LT I - F O R M AT | L I V E R P O O L

Untold Histories of Empire Organised by the University of Liverpool Thursday 14 November–Saturday 23 November, 10:00–17:00 World Museum | No booking required Get involved in ten days of activities exploring the untold histories of World Museum’s collections. Through talks and a treasure hunt, uncover the origins of objects acquired during the era of Empire and learn about the legacies of Britain’s global past. WORKSHOP | LIVERPOOL

Antonia’s Story: A Secret History Organised by Liverpool Hope University Friday 15 November, 10:00–16:00 The Brain Charity | No booking required This workshop, co-led by researchers with learning disabilities, explores the story of Antonia Grandoni, a lady who lived with a learning disability 150 years ago. Recovered from the archives, her story shows how researching history can be inclusive, creative and fun. Book online: beinghumanfestival.org

North West

WORKSHOP | MANCHESTER

Creating Your Family Story

WORKSHOP | LIVERPOOL AND MANCHESTER

Discovering Emigrant Children Organised by the University of Manchester Thursday 21 November, 17:30–19:30 | Manchester Police Museum Saturday 23 November, 12:00–14:30 | Liverpool Central Library Booking required These two events offer a chance to learn about the thousands of ‘problem’ or destitute children forcibly emigrated from the North West to Canada between the 1860s and 1920s. You can also discover how to locate and research your ancestors who experienced emigration. WORKSHOP | LIVERPOOL

Hidden Histories: Women and Books Organised by Liverpool Hope University Saturday 23 November, 10:30–16:00 Liverpool Hope Creative Campus | Booking required Explore how women have made, collected and read books over the centuries with a hands-on exploration of rare books from Liverpool Hope’s Special Collections. Try your hand at printing and book-making in artist-led workshops inspired by the archives.

Organised by the University of Manchester Friday 15 November, 14:00–16:30 Manchester Central Library | No booking required This participatory and creative workshop will encourage participants to think carefully about how they might try to ‘tell’ their family’s story through words, images and performance. Come along and unlock new ways of writing, investigating and retelling your family’s story. M U LT I - F O R M AT | MANCHESTER

Music and Migration Organised by the University of Manchester Exhibition: Saturday 16 November–Saturday 23 November, 10:00–17:00 | Manchester Museum Competition: Saturday 23 November, 12:00–16:00 | Heaton Mersey Community Centre Celebrate the little known heritage of Bengali folk music in the North West through a vibrant mix of performances, activities and an exhibition of musical instruments. This event also features a film of one-toone interviews with elderly migrants, and a singing competition for youngsters.

Being Human 2019

North West

WORKSHOP | MANCHESTER

DISCUSSION |MANCHESTER

Discovering Caribbean Family Memories

Surgical Speed-Meet

Organised by the University of Manchester Saturday 16 November, 10:00–17:00 Archives +, Manchester Central Library | No booking required These workshops will explore how you can uncover and become the keeper of your Caribbean family history. Bring along photos and objects that illuminate your family memories and learn how to start researching your family histories. TA L K | M A N CH E ST E R

Uncovering Manchester’s Chinese Stories Organised by Manchester Museum Saturday 16 November, 14:00–15:00 Manchester Museum | Booking required Newspapers, archives and gravestones contain hidden stories of Manchester people linked to China. In this talk, come along to hear about a cast of characters from an under-explored side of Manchester’s history.

Being Human 2019

Organised by the University of Roehampton Thursday 21 November, 18:00–21:30 Science and Industry Museum | Booking required Anxiety, joy, grief, fear, curiosity. How does it feel to practise surgery? At this interactive ‘Surgical Speed-Meet’ you can chat to surgeons about the place of emotions in their work. This informal evening event will follow a ‘speeddating’ format. M U LT I - F O R M AT | S O U T H P O R T

We Are Not Amused! Organised by Edge Hill University Saturday 23 November, 11:00–22:00 The Atkinson | Booking required Explore the peculiar history of Victorian humour at The Atkinson. Drop in to family-friendly workshops and exhibition tours during the day, or attend evening talks and performances featuring Greg Jenner (Horrible Histories) and the comedian Iszi Lawrence (Radio 4’s Making History).

Book online: beinghumanfestival.org

Yorkshire and the Humber

Yorkshire and the Humber WORKSHOP | BRADFORD

The Secrets of the Fairlight CMI

WORKSHOP | SHEFFIELD

Organised by Edinburgh Napier University Saturday 23 November, 13:00–16:00 The National Science and Media Museum | Booking required At this workshop explore the Fairlight CMI, an instrument that started the 1980s’ sampling ‘revolution’. Discover its musical history with owner Robin Scott (aka M from ‘Pop Muzik’), then sample and play with some digital noises of your own.

The Mind in the Cave

WA L K | L E E D S

Ben Jonson and Bolsover Castle

Dérive in Leeds Organised by Leeds Trinity University Wednesday 20 November, 9:00–20:00 Meet at Leeds Trinity University | No booking required At this self-guided walking tour wander through Leeds and capture (using any media) all sorts of situations you encounter in your path. Then gather with fellow explorers to upload your findings and artistic explorations of the city onto a website.

HUB | SHEFFIELD

Myth, Dream, Love

Organised by The University of Sheffield Myths, dreams and past loves come to life in this series of events that will immerse you in historical, imaginative and fictional worlds. Through poetry, theatre, food and music join researchers from The University of Sheffield and discover what it was like to attend a royal Jacobean banquet, to daydream in the Renaissance period or to live your life as a selkie.

Organised by Cardiff University Saturday 16 November, 11:00–16:00 Weston Park Museum | No booking required In this hands-on workshop get creative and reproduce cave paintings that were drawn and painted in secrecy and darkness tens of thousands of years ago. Work with artists and ancient materials while learning about these strange and beautiful images. TA L K | S H E F F I E L D Organised by The University of Sheffield Tuesday 19 November, 13:00–14:00 Humanities Research Institute, University of Sheffield | Booking required Series: Myth, Dream, Love This talk will discuss Bolsover Castle and its murals in relation to the poetry and drama of Ben Jonson, who counted the Castle’s owner William Cavendish among his patrons. TA L K | S H E F F I E L D

Music and the ‘Hypnerotomachia Poliphili’ Organised by The University of Sheffield Thursday 21 November, 13:00–14:00 Humanities Research Institute, University of Sheffield | Booking required Series: Myth, Dream, Love This talk will explore the music in the Hypnerotomachia Poliphili, a 1499 romance story published in Venice and renowned for its beautiful woodcut illustrations. Discover the volume’s origins and its intimate connection with the music of that time.

Being Human 2019

Yorkshire and the Humber

Yorkshire and the Humber PERFORMANCE | SHEFFIELD

Dreaming in Renaissance Italy Organised by The University of Sheffield Thursday 21 November, 18:30–20:00 Kelham Island Museum | Booking required Series: Myth, Dream, Love Discover the meaning of dreams in the Renaissance before Otis Mensah, Sheffield's poet laureate, performs a bespoke poem based around this dream world. From dream literature, to daydreamers, come and explore the importance of dreams in everyday life. PERFORMANCE | SHEFFIELD

The Secrets of the Selkies

FA M I LY | S H E F F I E L D

Organised by The University of Sheffield Friday 22 November, 19:00–20:30 Kelham Island Museum | Booking required Series: Myth, Dream, Love Through music, songs and fascinating visuals this show will explore the tale of the selkie – hybrid creatures that take the form of both humans and seals. Discover how they get trapped on land and have to navigate human relationships. FA M I LY | S H E F F I E L D

Organised by The University of Sheffield Saturday 23 November, 10:00–16:00 Kelham Island Museum | Booking required Series: Myth, Dream, Love Join the court of Charles I for an immersive experience recreating the sights, sounds and tastes of a royal banquet complete with theatrical entertainment. There will also be talks to find out more and craft activities for all the family.

Draw Your Dreams

FA M I LY | S H E F F I E L D

Organised by The University of Sheffield Saturday 23 November, 10:00–15:00 Kelham Island Museum | No booking required Series: Myth, Dream, Love Family-friendly activity inviting children, young people and families to draw their dreams and discuss how the self is replicated in dreams.

Behind the Mask

Moving Heaven and Earth

Organised by The University of Sheffield Saturday 23 November, 10:00–15:00 Kelham Island Museum | No booking required Series: Myth, Dream, Love A family-friendly mask making workshop inspired by the Heaven Closet mural at Bolsover Castle. M U LT I - F O R M AT | YO R K

Northern England’s Linguistic Heritage Sunday 17 November, 10:00–16:00 | Barley Hall, York See p 25 (Chester) for full listing. Being Human 2019

Book online: beinghumanfestival.org

East Midlands

East Midlands EX HIBITION | DERBY

Derby’s Moon-Struck Philosophers Exhibition Organised by the University of Derby Saturday 16 November–Sunday 24 November, (see online for times) Derby Local Studies and Family History Library | No booking required Explore the hidden history of Derby and how the people who lived here influenced scientific, political and philosophical thinking around the world. A new library exhibition showcases the archives about members of the Derby Philosophical Society and their famous, and infamous, experiments. WA L K | D E R BY

Derby’s Moon-Struck Philosophers Tour Organised by the University of Derby Saturday 16 November and Saturday 23 November, 14:00–15:30 Derby Local Studies and Family History Library | Booking required Join this free guided walk to discover the significance of secret spots around the city to which Derby's philosophers were closely connected.

PERFORMANCE | GAINSBOROUGH

Illuminate – Gainsborough – 'Mayflower' 400 Organised by the University of Lincoln Saturday 16 November, 17:00–18:00 Gainsborough Town Centre | No booking required Series: Moving Stories: Discovering Lives Lived Differently Street parade and performances commemorating 400 years since the voyage of the Mayflower and its connection to Gainsborough. Featuring digital projections onto Gainsborough’s historic Old Hall and a parade through the town with willow lanterns. Supported by Arts Council England. TA L K | G R A N T H A M

Dodging the Black Death Organised by the University of Lincoln Thursday 14 November, 19:00–20:30 The Great Hall, Harlaxton Manor | Booking required Series: Moving Stories: Discovering Lives Lived Differently Talk and Q&A led by Time Team’s Professor Carenza Lewis on the latest research revealing the Black Death’s catastrophic impact on medieval society – find out how your ancestors might have fared, and whether it could strike again today. WA L K | L E I C E ST E R

Tracing the Footsteps of Tudor Leicester Organised by the University of Leicester Sunday 17 November, 11:00–15:00 Great Hall, Leicester Guildhall | Booking required Follow a bitter 16th-century conflict between two powerful local families as it spilled out onto the streets of Leicester. Come along for a talk on Tudor Leicester, a Tudor handwriting workshop and a guided walk tracing 500-year-old footsteps through the city. 30

Being Human 2019

East Midlands

East Midlands WORKSHOP | LINCOLN HUB | LINCOLN

Moving Stories: Discovering Lives Lived Differently

Organised by the University of Lincoln Researchers from the University of Lincoln share stories of migration, inspiration, resilience and imagination in this interactive series of events that will explore the different ways in which human lives can be lived. You will be able to discover life in a Victorian asylum, a Roman villa, or a migrant detention centre; and find out how art, literature and music can help people enrich and transform their lives. WORKSHOP | LINCOLN

Hack a Robot Organised by the University of Lincoln Various dates, Thursday 14 November–Friday 22 November (see online for details) The Collection Museum | Booking required Series: Moving Stories: Discovering Lives Lived Differently Lindsey the robot is currently giving people tours around The Collection Museum in Lincoln. Come and improve what Lindsey does and work with robotics researchers to design a new tour for the robot. WORKSHOP | LINCOLN

Discover the Harp

Archive in a Digibox Organised by the University of Lincoln Saturday 16 November, 12:00–16:00 | The Bull Inn, Rippingale Monday 18 November, 12:00–16:00 | Riseholme Hall, Riseholme Campus, University of Lincoln No booking required Series: Moving Stories: Discovering Lives Lived Differently Bring along a couple of photos and have a go at building a digital archive. The International Bomber Command Centre (IBBC) digital archive team will show you the basics and invite you to do digitising yourself. M U LT I - F O R M AT | L I N C O L N

Hidden Gems Organised by the University of Lincoln Saturday 16 November, 16:00–22:00 Lincoln Performing Arts Centre | Booking required Series: Moving Stories: Discovering Lives Lived Differently A celebration of Lincoln’s East and South East Asian music and culture with workshops, an interactive exhibition and an interdisciplinary performance. Co-curated with local communities, prepare for an afternoon of discovery and fun for both children and adults.

Organised by the University of Lincoln Friday 15 November, 10:30–14:30 Mansions of the Future | Booking required Series: Moving Stories: Discovering Lives Lived Differently Get a behind-the-scenes insight into the fascinating world of composing and performing music for the harp. Learn about the harp and even try composing yourself in a hands-on workshop, performance and discussion with harpist Oliver Wass and composer Martin Scheuregger. Being Human 2019

Book online: beinghumanfestival.org

East Midlands

East Midlands DISCUSSION | LINCOLN

PERFORMANCE | LINCOLN

Madness, Past & Present

Haunted

Organised by the University of Lincoln Monday 18 November, 10:00–15:30 The Blue Room | Booking required Series: Moving Stories: Discovering Lives Lived Differently Come to the original ballroom of the Lincoln Lunatic Asylum for a day exploring the history of madness. Explore the research and reflect opinions back to the researchers to help shape and analyse their work.

Organised by the University of Lincoln Tuesday 19 November, 19:00– 21:00 | St. Mary’s Guildhall Wednesday 20 November, 17:00–19:00 | Lincoln Performing Arts Centre Booking required Series: Moving Stories: Discovering Lives Lived Differently Come in from the autumn chill to enjoy a collection of performances across two nights that explore both local and literary tales of ghouls, the uncanny, buried secrets and things that go bump in the night!

TA L K | L I N CO L N

‘The Grapes of Wrath’ at 80 Organised by the University of Lincoln Tuesday 19 November, 18:30–20:00 Cargill Lecture Theatre, University of Lincoln | Booking required Series: Moving Stories: Discovering Lives Lived Differently To celebrate the 80th anniversary of John Steinbeck’s seminal work The Grapes of Wrath come along to two short talks that will discuss the novel in relation to US history, contemporary politics and climate change. Followed by a Q&A.

EXHIBITION | LINCOLN

Childhood Curtailed Organised by the University of Lincoln Friday 22 November–Saturday 23 November, 10:00–15:00 Ground Lab | Booking required Series: Moving Stories: Discovering Lives Lived Differently This event will include a photographic exhibition of child migrants produced in the last decade of global mobility. Workshops will enable young people and local residents to engage with the themes of migration and home through short film and photography. M U LT I - F O R M AT | L I N C O L N

Really? A Dig on a Council Estate? Organised by the University of Lincoln Saturday 23 November, 10:00–16:00 The Collection Museum | No booking required Series: Moving Stories: Discovering Lives Lived Differently Explore what an unlikely archaeological dig on a post-war council estate in Lincolnshire revealed and why it matters. Talk to diggers, peruse finds, take part in a mock excavation and a table-top finds hunt and compete for archaeological bingo prizes.

Being Human 2019

EXHIBITION | LINCOLN

Unearthing Roman Riseholme Organised by the University of Lincoln Saturday 23 November, 10:00–16:00 The Collection Museum | No booking required Series: Moving Stories: Discovering Lives Lived Differently All are welcome to this hands-on multi-activity pop-up exhibition showcasing discoveries from eight days of community archaeological excavations in July 2019 at Riseholme, near Lincoln. Handle finds, talk to archaeologists and excavation volunteers and learn more about life in Roman Britain. M U LT I - F O R M AT | LOUGHBOROUGH

The Secret History of Ladybird Books Organised by Loughborough University Thursday 14 November, 10:30–15:00 Charnwood Museum | No booking required Ladybird Books were published locally for a national and global market. Listen to Well-Loved Tales, share memories, bring your memorabilia, talk to an expert, discover Leicestershire Museums’ Ladybird collections and learn why Ladybird was special to Loughborough. PERFORMANCE | NOTTINGHAM

Space is Full of Sound Organised by the University of Nottingham Friday 22 November, 20:00–22:30 The Chameleon Arts Café | Booking required Series: Nottingham: Secret Lives, Secret Places Join the discussion and performance of experimental artists Marja-Leena Sillanpaa and Marian Rezaei as they explore the hidden soundtracks of the ‘ether’. Discover the unexpected vibrations of our surroundings and the ‘unbodied’ voices that shape the spaces through which we walk.

Being Human 2019

M U LT I - F O R M AT | N O T T I N G H A M

Hidden Attenborough Organised by the University of Nottingham Saturday 23 November, 11:00–17:00 Attenborough Nature Centre | Booking required Series: Nottingham: Secret Lives, Secret Places Discover the hidden corners and secret stories of Attenborough Nature Reserve on the banks of the River Trent. Throughout the day there will be a series of walks and talks on the site’s history, wildlife and management. PERFORMANCE | NOTTINGHAM

But I Know This City! Organised by the University of Nottingham Saturday 23 November, 10:00–22:00 Broadway Cinema | No booking required Series: Nottingham: Secret Lives, Secret Places Celebrate the 50th anniversary of The Unfortunates, an experimental 'book in a box' by B. S. Johnson describing a visit to Nottingham. Collect a map and plot your own journey across the city to listen to readings in any order throughout the day.

SECRET CITY SERIES

Secret Lives, Secret Places Organised by the University of Nottingham

Join researchers from the University of Nottingham and discover sides to the city that you never knew existed. Use electronic devices and radio waves to explore the hidden sonics of our surroundings, or see Nottingham through the eyes of B. S. Johnson in a performance which will take over venues across the city.

Book online: beinghumanfestival.org

East Midlands

West Midlands

West Midlands PA N E L | B I R M I N G H A M

TOU R | WOLVERHAM PTON

21st-Century Body

Warhol in Wolverhampton

Organised by the University of Birmingham Thursday 21 November, 18:30–21:00 Bramall Music Building, University of Birmingham | Booking required Join broadcaster Alice Roberts as she debates evolving beauty demands and body property rights, with a diverse panel of experts who research how the body and self are understood. ‘21st-Century Body’ offers a thoughtprovoking ride through contemporary ethical and moral questions.

Organised by the University of Wolverhampton Saturday 16 November, 11:00–17:30 Wolverhampton Art Gallery | Booking required Series: The Black Country Unscene Come along for a unique opportunity to go behind the scenes and encounter unseen art from the gallery’s extensive pop art collection. Then get hands-on at your choice of three workshops where you can research gems from the collection.

SCREENING | BIRMINGHAM

WORKSHOP | WOLVERHAM PTON

Telling the Other Story Organised by the University of Birmingham Saturday 23 November, 13:30–16:00 The Electric Cinema | Booking required This screening of the documentary Some Stories will show what happened when 15 Birmingham teenagers met 15 Limerick teenagers in 2018 to swap stories from one another’s lives. One year on, these teenagers will reunite onstage after the screening to reveal its impact.

The Secret Lives of the Suffragettes Organised by the University of Wolverhampton Sunday 17 November, 15:00–17:00 Bantock House | Booking required Series: The Black Country Unscene Mark the opening of an exhibition of suffragette artefacts at Bantock House at this family-friendly workshop. Explore what it was like to be a suffragette on the run and see how they used everyday items to keep one step ahead of the authorities. WORKSHOP | WOLVERHAM PTON

Dementia Dialogues Organised by the University of Wolverhampton Monday 18 November, 18:00–20:00 University of Wolverhampton | Booking required Series: The Black Country Unscene Get involved in this creative writing workshop, encouraging carers and family members of people with dementia to consider their family relationships, changing roles and memories through cutting-edge creative practices. Gain the skills and techniques to creatively express your experiences.

Being Human 2019

West Midlands

West Midlands EXHIBITION | WORCESTER SECRET CITY SERIES

The Black Country Unscene Organised by the University of Wolverhampton

Discoveries and secrets are particularly relevant for a region that is itself overlooked. In this series, the University of Wolverhampton showcases it’s incredibly exciting and diverse research through performances, exhibitions, screenings and workshops. Activities include a multisensory walk to explore the city and a behind-the-scenes tour of the pop art held at the Wolverhampton Art Gallery.

WORKSHOP | WOLVERHAM PTON

Overlooked Overlockers Organised by the University of Wolverhampton Wednesday 20 November, 10:30–15:00 Wolverhampton Art Gallery | Booking required Series: The Black Country Unscene This workshop will bring to light the overlooked experiences of migrant women who contributed to the West Midlands' textile heritage. Their rekindled memories of factory work and relationships between women workers and employers will be used to create a collage. TOU R | WOLVERHAM PTON

Making Sense of the Black Country Organised by the University of Wolverhampton Saturday 23 November, 11:00–18:00 Black Country Living Museum | Booking required Series: The Black Country Unscene Come along to this multisensory walk across the Black Country focusing on overlooked locations, literature and history. You are invited to collect images, sounds and other materials to contribute to a multi-sensory artwork to be unveiled at Wolverhampton Literature Festival 2020. Being Human 2019

Histories from Worcestershire and Beyond Organised by the University of Worcester Thursday 14 November– Saturday 23 November, 9:00–17:00 The Hive | No booking required An exhibition of 50 secret histories of Worcestershire, including the Lost Village of Croome, Tudor demons and a cold war nuclear bunker where royalty would have been evacuated to if there was a Nazi invasion during World War II. TA L K | WO R CE ST E R

Forbidden Thoughts Organised by the University of Worcester Thursday 14 November, 18:30–20:00 The Hive | Booking required This talk explores the secret world of Tudor and Stuart demonic temptation. Discover how the strange and dark thoughts humans often try to hide were once attributed to evil spirits and what this meant for those experiencing them. M U LT I - F O R M AT | W O R C E S T E R

Blue Potatoes and Invasion Fears Organised by the University of Worcester Wednesday 20 November, 11:00–17:00 The Hive | Booking required Drop in to The Hive’s studio for a day of activities exploring Worcestershire during wartime. Listen to oral histories, view archive film, answer quizzes, take a look at the weekly ration allowance and taste wartime foods such as carrot jam.

Book online: beinghumanfestival.org

East of England

East of England EXHIBITION | CAMBRIDGE

EXHIBITION | COLCHESTER

Arriving: Objects & Discoveries

Faces: An Exhibition of Changing Essex Style

Organised by Anglia Ruskin University Thursday 14 November–Friday 22 November, 10:00–16:30 (closed Saturday and Sunday) Ruskin Gallery | No booking required This exhibition documents stories about arriving at a new place (e.g. country, workplace, school) via photographic portraits and audio-recordings. Objects unlock stories of arrival, discovering commonalities between people who perceive themselves as migrants, non-migrants or global citizens. M U LT I - F O R M AT | C O L C H E S T E R

Beauty School Drop In Organised by the University of Essex Saturday 16 November, 10:00–16:00 One Colchester Hub | Booking required Series: Made Up: Women’s Health and Beauty Past and Present Visit this historical beauty salon and discover how generations of women have used hair and make-up to express themselves. Share stories and photographs, listen to short historical talks, take part in craft activities, and get your nails done.

Organised by the University of Essex Saturday 23 November, 10:00–16:30 Firstsite | Booking required Series: Made Up: Women’s Health and Beauty Past and Present Discover the changing faces of Essex style through an exhibition of photographs and reflections on grooming collected at the 'Beauty School Drop In' event. Reflect on the diversity of women’s beauty experiences and discover inter-generational differences in style and self-expression. WORKSHOP | COLCHESTER

Glow Up: Zine Workshop Organised by the University of Essex Saturday 23 November, 12:00–14:00 Firstsite | Booking required Series: Made Up: Women’s Health and Beauty Past and Present Workshop with artist Lu Williams of Grrrl Zine Fair. Learn how to make a zine, take a look at the Grrrl Zine Library, find out about zine culture and investigate normative beauty ideals.

Being Human 2019

East of England

East of England M U LT I - F O R M AT | HAPPISBURGH

On the Beach: Discovering Early Humans in Norfolk Organised by Queen Mary University of London Friday 15 November, 19:30–22:00 and Saturday 16 November, 11:00–16:00 Wenn Evans Centre | Booking required for the talk Series: This Time It’s Personal Come and learn about the earliest humans in Britain. In an evening talk and family-friendly day of activities, explore our distant past through the discoveries that have been made on the beach at Happisburgh in Norfolk. WORKSHOP | NORWICH

Touching the Past Organised by Norwich University of the Arts Wednesday 20 November and Saturday 23 November, 14:00–16:00 Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery | Booking required 'Touching the Past' is a series of workshops and interactive experiences with invited audiences that encourages young people to explore Norfolk Museums' collections data.

Being Human 2019

Book online: beinghumanfestival.org

South West

South West M U LT I - F O R M AT | E X E T E R

The Secrets of Exeter Cathedral Organised by the University of Exeter Wednesday 20 November, 11:00–17:00 Exeter Cathedral | Booking required | Fee: £5 Discover the secrets of Exeter’s Cathedral in this day of activities and talks. From cracking the codes of medieval graffiti to tracking representations of ancient animals, see the history of the Cathedral, its library and archive brought to life. M U LT I - F O R M AT | E X E T E R

Secret Ingredients Organised by the University of Exeter Tuesday 19 November, 17:30–20:00 Exeter Central Library | No booking required Discover ingredients in all their varieties at this evening of interactive activities and talks. Drop in and explore the origins of foodstuff that make up our modern day diet and the ingredients that advance human knowledge.

M U LT I – F O R M AT | N E T H E R S T O W E Y, AV O N M O U T H , WA R M I N S T E R A N D B R OA DWAY

Romancing the Gibbet Organised by the University of the West of England Thursday 14 November, 19:00–21:00 | Nether Stowey Village Hall Friday 15 November, 19:00–21:00 | Avonmouth Community Centre Saturday 16 November, 13:30–15:30 | St Denys Church, Warminster Saturday 23 November, 13:30–15:30 | The Snug/ Broadway Tower Booking required Come along for an exploration of ‘dark tourism’ at four sites of extraordinary public execution in Georgian Britain. Each event includes historical notes, spoken word performance and a chance to sample new audiotrails. Please download the app from satsymph.co.uk before you come and bring your smartphone and headphones.

Being Human 2019

South East

South East PERFORMANCE | BRIGHTON

Photography After Capitalism Organised by the University of Sussex Thursday 21 November, 18:00–20:00 Attenborough Centre for the Creative Arts | Booking required This performance combines Ted Talk evangelism with the excitement of Dragons' Den to explore what the world would be like after capitalism. Cast as potential investors, hear persuasive arguments asking you to part with your cash and bring an end to neoliberalism. M U LT I - F O R M AT | C A N T E R B U RY

SECRET CITY SERIES

Telling Secrets: Hidden Margate

Organised by Canterbury Christchurch University

This series of events explores the secret history of Margate and Thanet both above and below ground. Get creative and musical in the Margate Caves or take the mystery trail through the Tudor House. With researchers from Canterbury Christ Church University discover how our understanding of personal experience shapes our sense of place.

Nostalgia Night Organised by the University of Kent Friday 22 November, 19:30–21:00 Colyer-Fergusson Building, University of Kent | Booking required Explore the pull of nostalgia in shaping us as human in this fun evening of live music, readings, clips and interactions. Come prepared for a TV and radio themed quiz and to listen to others share reflections on their lives. EXHIBITION | GUILDFORD

Music in the Archives Organised by the University of Surrey Friday 22 November, 12:00–17:00 George Edwards Building, University of Surrey | No booking required This interactive pop-up exhibition delves into the hidden treasures of libraries and archives to explore the secret worlds that live among their stacks and shelves. From medieval instruments to hip hop, discover what has been kept and why.

Being Human 2019

D I S C U S S I O N | M A R G AT E

The Softboiled Heroine Organised by Canterbury Christ Church University Thursday 14 November, 18:30–20:00 The Margate Bookshop | Booking required Series: Telling Secrets: Hidden Margate If you are fed up with women being typecast as either evil femmes fatales or housetrained girls, then come and discuss Elizabeth Sanxay Holding’s pioneering book The Blank Wall and how it changed the role of women in traditional crime fiction. S C R E E N I N G | M A R G AT E

Hardboiled on the Big Screen Organised by Canterbury Christ Church University Saturday 16 November, 18:00–20:30 Margate Museum | Booking required Series: Telling Secrets: Hidden Margate Come and watch The Reckless Moment, the film adaptation of Elizabeth Sanxay Holding’s pioneering book The Blank Wall. The screening will be accompanied by a discussion with Persephone Books on how Hollywood’s representation of mothers and heroines deviates from their literary counterparts.

Book online: beinghumanfestival.org

South East

South East P E R F O R M A N C E | M A R G AT E

Murder Mystery Trail

SECRET CITY SERIES

Organised by Canterbury Christ Church University Sunday 17 November, 11:30–13:00 Tudor House, Margate | Booking required Series: Telling Secrets: Hidden Margate Visit Margate’s Tudor House for an interactive performance that tells a story of crime and deceit. How it ends very much depends on you! Decode the clues to solve the mystery and decide who is guilty.

Oxford Unwrapped

M U S I C | M A R G AT E

Convivial Caves Organised by Canterbury Christ Church University Saturday 23 November, 12:00–13:00 Margate Caves | Booking required Series: Telling Secrets: Hidden Margate Gather in one of Margate’s most atmospheric locations to recreate a musical gathering from yesteryear. Singers from the cathedral choir will perform the lively songs that delighted audiences in the town throughout the 18th and 19th centuries. W O R K S H O P | M A R G AT E

Secret Writing in Margate Caves Organised by Canterbury Christ Church University Saturday 23 November, 14:00–15:00 Margate Caves | Booking required Series: Telling Secrets: Hidden Margate Go underground to discover the hidden history of Margate and its literary past in this hands-on workshop. With the help of creative writing experts, bounce ideas off the walls, unearth your inner poet and contribute to a ‘secrets bank’.

Organised by TORCH, The Oxford Research Centre in the Humanities This series of activities explores lesser known and sometimes 'uncomfortable' sides to Oxford, the city of dreaming spires. Go on a walk through the streets of Oxford to discover overlooked and less celebrated stories about its inhabitants, or join researchers from the University for a larger-thanlife projection show which reveals discoveries being made within the colleges. DISCUSSION | OXFORD

Inherited Secrets Organised by the Wellcome Centre for Ethics and Humanities and TORCH, The Oxford Research Centre in the Humanities Thursday 14 November, 18:30–20:00 Modern Art Oxford | Booking required Series: Oxford Unwrapped Join a panel of experts to explore the scientific advances that mean a range of potentially life-changing facts about DNA can now be discovered. Question the impact this knowledge might have on family relationships and the life choices humans make. WA L K | OX F O R D

Uncomfortable Oxford Tours Organised by Uncomfortable Oxford and TORCH, The Oxford Research Centre in the Humanities Friday 15 November, Saturday 16 November, Sunday 17 November, 11:00–12:30 Carfax Tower, Oxford | Booking required Series: Oxford Unwrapped These three alternative walking tours raise awareness of ‘uncomfortable’ events in Oxford’s history, encouraging discussion about historical legacies that have a lasting impact on the modern environment of the city and University.

Being Human 2019

M U LT I - F O R M AT | O X F O R D

Oxford Research Unwrapped

South East

South East M U S E U M / G A L L E RY L AT E | READING

Organised by TORCH, The Oxford Research Centre in the Humanities Friday 15 November, 18:00–22:00 Radcliffe Humanities, University of Oxford | Booking required Series: Oxford Unwrapped A jam-packed evening of activities awaits you at the old Radcliffe Infirmary, including a spectacular light and sound installation magnificently projected onto the building. There’s fun for all ages with bite-sized talks, stalls and games powered by research from Oxford.

Animal Magic: a MERL Late

DISCUSSION | OXFORD

Organised by the University of Southampton and the John Hansard Gallery Friday 22 November, 18:00–21:00 John Hansard Gallery | Booking required Visit the John Hansard Gallery for a special late-opening event where you can explore all the current exhibitions. Be sure to catch some of the exciting and informative temporary installations, talks and workshops taking place throughout the night.

Death at Teatime Organised by the Wellcome Centre for Ethics and Humanities and Uncomfortable Oxford Saturday 23 November, 14:00–17:00 The Jam Factory | No booking required Series: Oxford Unwrapped This drop-in event aims to encourage wider conversations around the often taboo topics of death and dying. Everyone is welcome to come along, enjoy an afternoon tea and enter into facilitated discussions about death. TA L K | P O RTCH E ST E R

Portchester’s Prisoners of War Organised by the University of Warwick Friday 15 November, 14:00–15:30 Portchester Castle | Booking required | Fee: £4 Come along to this discussion exploring how new research about the remarkable stories of prisoners of war at Portchester Castle inspired internationally renowned artist Elaine Mitchener to create a sound installation in the keep.

Being Human 2019

Organised by the University of Reading Thursday 21 November, 19:00–22:00 The Museum of English Rural Life | Booking required Enjoy an evening of live music, craft activities, a silent disco and interactive workshops that will reveal hidden facts about animals. Get hands-on with the MERL collections before visiting the cocktail bar from Milk Reading. Suitable for ages 18+. M U S E U M / G A L L E RY L AT E | SOUTHAMPTON

Humanities Late

FA M I LY | S O U T H A M P T O N

Hands-on Humanities Day Organised by the University of Southampton and the John Hansard Gallery Saturday 23 November, 10:30–16:30 John Hansard Gallery | Booking required Fun for all the family at this day of interactive activities, workshops, talks and exhibits exploring many different aspects of the humanities. From poetry and archaeology to magical stories and historical adventures, there is something for everyone.

Book online: beinghumanfestival.org

London

London WA L K | L O N D O N

DISCUSSION | LONDON

Local History Walks Around Feltham

The Placeless Condition

Organised by the School of Advanced Study, University of London Thursday 14 November–Saturday 23 November, 8:00–17:00 (see online for times) Meet at Hanworth Leisure Centre | Booking required Series: Layers of Feltham Two hour-long walks on the history of the park. The first walk starts with its early origins in 1066–1916. The second walk focuses on the park's fascinating 20th- and 21st-century history and aviation past.

Organised by the British Academy Thursday 14 November, 18:30–19:30 British Academy | Booking required | Fee: £5 Refugees and migration are in the news every day, yet the imaginative history of placelessness is often overlooked. In this event Lyndsey Stonebridge, in conversation with Jean McNeil, will explore the ‘placeless condition’ of writers and thinkers in the mid20th century, from Paris to Lisbon, Berlin to Palestine.

EXHIBITION | LONDON

Making Theatre in Exile

Unlocking the Secrets of Slavery and Abolition Organised by Brunel University London Thursday 14 November–Saturday 23 November, 9:00–17:00 Eastern Gateway Atrium, Brunel University London | No booking required A specially curated exhibition on the British and Foreign School Society and its role in training Britain’s first black professional teachers and educating enslaved children in the Caribbean. Look out for the Slave Book produced by children in 19th-century Jamaica. EXHIBITION | LONDON

Being Mixed Race: Stories of Britain’s Black GI Babies Organised by Anglia Ruskin University Thursday 14 November–Saturday 23 November, 10:00–18:00 Black Cultural Archives | Booking required A pop-up exhibition about the mixed-race children born to black GIs and British women in the Second World War, accompanied by two events on the history and identity of being mixed race, and black and mixedrace children and the care system, 1940s-present.

PERFORMANCE | LONDON Organised by the School of Advanced Study, University of London Thursday 14 November, 18:30–20:00 and 20:30–22:00 Hampstead Jazz Club | Booking required Delving into a suitcase of scripts and letters, this performance recreates the Viennese political cabaret brought to Britain by actors and writers fleeing Nazioccupied Austria during the Second World War. Expect a cabaret of sketches and satire performed in both German and English. PERFORMANCE | LONDON

Flying Circus Airlines Organised by King’s College London Thursday 14 November, 18:30–20:00 King’s College London campus | Booking required Series: This Time It’s Personal ice&fire theatre presents extracts from its upcoming show: a fun, irreverent and accessible excavation of the complex themes of freedom of movement versus the politics of exclusion. Includes Q&A with the creative team.

Being Human 2019

London

London EXHIBITION | LONDON

FA M I LY | L O N D O N

Reading the Archive

Layers of London Pop Up

Organised by Central Saint Martins Friday 15 November, 10:00–16:00 BT Archives | Booking required Explore the heritage of telecoms alongside specially-created films and displays by Central St Martin’s design students at the BT Archives, which is housed in a 1927 telephone exchange building in central London.

Organised by the School of Advanced Study, University of London Friday 15 November–Friday 22 November (see online for times) Please check online for venue | No booking required Series: Layers of Feltham 'Layers of London' is an online history mapping tool where Londoners can explore crowd-sourced histories and historical maps of their local area and contribute their own histories. Bring along stories, memories, research, ephemera and photographs to share.

WA L K | L O N D O N

Walking Free Organised by Brunel University London Friday 15 November, Saturday 16 November and Friday 22 November, 10:00–12:30 Uxbridge Library | Booking required Take part in this guided tour to discover the hidden connection between Uxbridge and British slavery and abolition. Visit a former residence of leading British abolitionist, William Wilberforce, and the grave of former African slave, Toby Pleasant. (approx. length 3km).

Being Human 2019

Book online: beinghumanfestival.org

London

London EXHIBITION | LONDON

WORKSHOP | LONDON

Baroque Science: Early Modern Discoveries

Museum of Me

Organised by University College London Friday 15 November, 12:00–14:00 UCL Special Collections, South Junction Reading Room | No booking required An informal drop-in exhibition of early modern scientific books from UCL’s Special Collections. Experts will be on hand to discuss the contents and appearance of the books and their role in the development of science. M U LT I - F O R M AT | L O N D O N

Not News at Ten Organised by the University of East London Friday 15 November, 18:00–20:00 Concertina Space, AVA Building, Docklands Campus | No booking required Here is the news as told by Berthold Brecht, Samuel Beckett and Billie Holiday. ‘Not News at Ten’ is a quirky news cabaret that tells top stories imaginatively and truthfully. Part-screening, part-reading, part-exhibition, part-discussion. Come and get involved! TA L K | L O N D O N

For the Benefit of Kitty Clive Organised by The Foundling Museum Friday 15 November, 19:00–21:00 The Foundling Museum | Booking required Kitty Clive was a top London stage star, renowned in theatre, opera and musical comedy. This talk and performance explores Clive’s incredible journey from humble beginnings to stardom, and how she transformed the world of Georgian show business.

Organised by the University of Liverpool Saturday 16 November, 10:00–13:00 Centro Infantil Menchú | Booking required Inspired by work at the Museo Nacional in Colombia, this event invites participants to curate their own materials, think about the objects and images that represent them and their memories, and to create their own mini-museum. M U LT I - F O R M AT | L O N D O N

Sounds from the Gardens Organised by Goldsmiths, University of London Saturday 16 November and Sunday 17 November, 10:30–17:00 Horniman Museum and Gardens | Booking required A weekend of special events exploring the sounds of the Horniman Museum and Gardens, local ecosystems and our impact on the environment. Expect installations, sound walks, field recording, composition workshops and participatory live performances. WORKSHOP | LONDON

Archaeological Skills Workshop Organised by the School of Advanced Study, University of London Saturday 16 November, 12:00–16:00 Hanworth Park House | Booking required Series: Layers of Feltham In this workshop participants will learn how to record a standing building at Hanworth Park House. Explore the house (not normally open to the public), learn to write a report on its current state and do historical and archaeological explorations to support its conservation. Suitable for ages 18+.

Being Human 2019

London

London PERFORMANCE | LONDON

WORKSHOP | LONDON

Breaking the Silence

Discovering Home

Organised by Brunel University London Saturday 16 November, 13:00–14:00 St John the Baptist Church and Uxbridge | Booking required A unique theatrical performance of an 18th-century abolitionist meeting. Learn about the campaign to abolish the slave trade and the untold stories of British Caribbean slaves in their own words, located in the burial ground of former African slave, Toby Pleasant.

Organised by King’s College London Saturday 16 November, 15:00–18:30 The Place | Booking required Series: This Time It’s Personal In a world of division and displacement, can we find common ground in conceptions of ‘home’? 'Discovering Home' is an interactive workshop drawing on philosophy, dance, music, and art. Together create a piece about our understandings of home.

PERFORMANCE | LONDON

Windrush Voices Organised by the School of Advanced Study, University of London Saturday 16 November, 14:00–16:00 The Main Hall, Deptford Lounge | Booking required This event will bring together performers, intellectuals and memoirists from across the generations of the UK’s Caribbean community. Join Aunty Joyce Trotman, Lainy Malkani, Mr Gee and Prof Lez Henry for an afternoon of entertainment and stimulating discussion. WORKSHOP | LONDON

(Beat)Making the North African Cool! Organised by King’s College London Saturday 16 November, 14:30–18:00 Rumi's Cave | Booking required Series: This Time It’s Personal Interested in learning beatmaking with a twist? Join this beat-making workshop to learn more about the rich and vibrant North African music tradition with Moroccan rapper and producer Dizzy DROS.

Being Human 2019

FA M I LY | L O N D O N

Making Medusa Organised by the School of Advanced Study, University of London Sunday 17 November, 11:00–15:30 Little Angel Studio | Booking required In this drop-in workshop, discover the secrets of the mythical Medusa! Try your hand at puppet-making and create a snake to add to the head of the larger-than-life puppet. Is this snake-haired monster, who turned to stone all who saw her, really as terrifying as you might think?

Book online: beinghumanfestival.org

London

London PERFORMANCE | LONDON

PERFORMANCE | LONDON

At Home I Speak

Excavating Roman Voices

Organised by the School of Advanced Study, University of London Sunday 17 November, 15:00–16:45 Rich Mix | Booking required How do the languages we speak shape our sense of culture and identity? This new play developed in residency at an East London school, where 45 languages are spoken, explores what it means to be multilingual in contemporary Britain.

Organised by the University of Notre Dame (USA) in England Tuesday 19 November, 17:00–19:00 London Mithraeum Bloomberg SPACE | Booking required An evening of poetry inspired by the lost voices of Roman London. Poetry will be performed alongside 600 of the 14,000 Roman artefacts found on the Bloomberg site, followed by an opportunity to view the mysterious Temple of Mithras.

PERFORMANCE | LONDON

Gay Sex and the Disappearing City Organised by University of Exeter Sunday 17 November, 18:00–19:30 The Glory | Booking required This performance for two readers and viola da gamba explores how gentrification is endangering spaces of queer sex and world-making, and asks how new LGBTQ+ generations might discover political intimacies in the time of hook-up apps and property speculation. MUSIC | LONDON

Art, Music & Memory at the Soho Poly Organised by the University of Westminster Monday 18 November– Thursday 21 November (see online for times) Soho Poly basement | Booking required Discover the ‘pre-history’ of London’s iconic venue with a special series of events including a lunchtime gig by folk legend Martin Stephenson, a music and memory zine workshop in the revived ‘Arts Workshop’ and a ‘Pop and Politics’ exhibition.

WORKSHOP | LONDON

Weaving Tales Between East and West Organised by King’s College London Tuesday 19 November, 13:00–16:00 Little Ilford Church Hall | Booking required Series: This Time It’s Personal Textile and storytelling workshop exploring how stories travel across languages and cultures, weave into and shape our identities and communities. Find out about journeys of ancient fables, share travelling tales, and get creative by making your own textile art. M U S E U M / G A L L E RY L AT E | LONDON

Humanising Medicine Organised by Queen Mary University of London Tuesday 19 November, 17:30–19:30 Barts Pathology Museum | Booking required Series: This Time It’s Personal An evening of art and storytelling in celebration of the humanity and artistry at the core of medicine. Featuring an exhibition depicting the lived experiences of people involved in all aspects of healthcare, and a chance to hear the personal stories of health, illness and care from doctors, nurses, students and patients.

Being Human 2019

London

London M U LT I - F O R M AT | L O N D O N HUB

This Time It’s Personal

Organised by Queen Mary University of London and King’s College London Language, stories, art or home. Which of these make you unique? Do you share them with the world or keep them hidden? Queen Mary University of London and King’s College London’s Arts and Humanities Research Institute have joined forces to uncover the personal side of the issues shaping our world today. Through workshops, exhibitions, performances and interactive events explore Arab hip hop, refugee stories and how creativity underpins modern medicine. TA L K | L O N D O N

Gilgamesh, The Hero Who Didn’t Want to Die Organised by SOAS University of London Tuesday 19 November, 18:30–20:30 Brunei Gallery, SOAS | Booking required The Epic of Gilgamesh is an extraordinary 4,000-yearold Babylonian poem, which tells of King Gilgamesh and his quest for immortality. This talk takes you on a journey through the poem’s archaeology, story and timeless message about life and death.

Being Human 2019

Being Well and Wondrous Organised by The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, University of London Wednesday 20 November, 10:00–17:00 St Margaret’s House | Booking required Drop in for workshops including book-binding, creative writing and book cover design. Share and discuss ways of working creatively to support wellbeing and challenge the stigmas surrounding living with HIV. Coled by Positively UK and supported by MIND. Sessions starting at 10:00 and 14:00. EXHIBITION | LONDON

Feltham Heritage 1917–1947 Photo Exhibition Organised by the School of Advanced Study, University of London Wednesday 20 November–Friday 22 November, 10:00–16:30 Feltham Library, The Centre | No booking required Series: Layers of Feltham Marking the centenary of the opening of Hanworth Air Park in 1917, this photographic exhibition explores the history of the people, communities and events connected with the west Hounslow area between 1917 and 1947.

Book online: beinghumanfestival.org

London

London WORKSHOP | LONDON

M U LT I - F O R M AT | L O N D O N

Lost and Found Words

Our Mutual Friend the Machine

Organised by King’s College London Wednesday 20 November, 10:30–14:00 Somerset House East Wing, Learning Centre | Booking required Series: This Time It’s Personal This event invites children aged 7–11, their teachers, parents and carers on a journey of discovery through language. Together explore words we seldom hear anymore, rediscover them and what they describe and give them new life.

Organised by the School of Advanced Study, University of London Wednesday 20 November, 18:30–20:00 Waterstones, Tottenham Court Road | Booking required Discover how story-generating computer programmes could make you the new Dickens at an evening of flash talks, poetry performances and interactive stalls. Generate stories, join a ‘Save the Author’ protest and become an online Dickensian detective for the night.

WORKSHOP | LONDON

Home Truths Organised by the School of Advanced Study, University of London Wednesday 20 November, 14:30–16:30 London Metropolitan Archives | Booking required There are secrets and discoveries in every family’s history. This combined workshop and panel discussion is a chance for people researching their past to meet and discuss family history and the ethics of family history when secrets are uncovered. M U LT I - F O R M AT | L O N D O N

England’s Histories Unboxed! Organised by the School of Advanced Study, University of London Wednesday 20 November, 16:30–19:00 Institute of Historical Research | Booking required Celebrating 120 years of the Victoria County History, communities across England have filled special red boxes with objects that represent their history in quirky or surprising ways. Join the un-boxing party, including an exhibition, object handling, 3D printing and panel discussion.

PERFORMANCE | LONDON

Virginia Woolf: Killing the Angel Organised by the London School of Economics Wednesday 20 November, 18:30–20:00 Shaw Library, LSE | Booking required This event will weave together the life of Woolf as expressed in her own words, with music by female composers who were her contemporaries. Written and performed by Lucy Stevens, with pianist Elizabeth Marcus, this work in progress is intercut with discussions of archival research. PERFORMANCE | LONDON

Different Stages Organised by the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, University of London Wednesday 20 November, 18:30–20:00 Museum of Comedy | Booking required All are welcome at this event showcasing exciting projects from drama and theatre academics and creatives. Find out more about the discoveries and secrets that are being made, uncovered and reimagined through collaborations, research and performance.

Being Human 2019

London

London TA L K | L O N D O N

PA N E L | L O N D O N

Playing in the Darkness

What’s the Point of Diversity?

Organised by the British Academy Wednesday 20 November, 19:30–20:00 The Four Quarters, Hackney Wick | Booking required From alien attacks to collapsed civilisations, video games have depicted a wide range of nightmarish futures. This talk reflects on the appeal of ‘playing’ our own digital dystopias, and is followed by an opportunity to play some classic arcade games.

Organised by the Royal Institute of Philosophy Thursday 21 November, 18:30–20:00 Senate House | Booking required In this non-adversarial debate philosophers at the front line of the diversity discussions will be picking at its complexities and difficulties. Speakers include Tommy Curry and Kathleen Stock with the BBC’s Ritula Shah in the chair.

WORKSHOP | LONDON

Gate: Exploring the Power of Borders Organised by Queen Mary University of London Thursday 21 November, 10:00–12:00 Queen Mary University of London library | No booking required Series: This Time It’s Personal The gate will open, the gate will close. What does it mean to pass through the barrier? This interactive workshop led by artist Janetka Platun will explore the poetics and power of gates and the relationships between our bodies, barriers, breaches and gaps.

PA N E L | L O N D O N

Exposed! Scandal and Shame Reconsidered Organised by Palgrave Macmillan Thursday 21 November, 18:30–20:30 Springer Nature – The Stables Building | Booking required Hear this expert panel uncover how our views of shame and scandal have changed over the years. From political corruption to digital shaming, uncover a secret history of scandal that’s more contemporary than you might think.

SCREENING | LONDON

Lasting Marks? Organised by Goldsmiths, University of London Thursday 21 November, 18:00–20:00 Curzon Cinema, Goldsmiths, University of London | Booking required Learn about the history of police secrecy and investigation, and how it is documented through the lens of film, at this screening of Lasting Marks and Evidence of the Evidence at Curzon Goldsmiths. Preceded by a talk from director Charlie Lyne and followed by a panel discussion. Being Human 2019

Book online: beinghumanfestival.org

London

London PERFORMANCE | LONDON

SCREENING | LONDON

Discovering Lost Children after the Second World War

Thomas Nashe Lenten Stuff

PERFORMANCE | LONDON

Organised by the British School at Rome Friday 22 November, 18:00–19:30 Courtauld Institute of Art | Booking required In 1597, the Elizabethan polemical prose writer Thomas Nash fled to Great Yarmouth after a play he co-wrote led to the closure of all of London’s theatres. This film screening and discussion explores this period in Nashe’s controversial life.

Sea Change

FOOD AND DRINK | LONDON

Organised by the School of Advanced Study, University of London Thursday 21 November, 19:00–21:00 Prospect of Whitby | Booking required Come and discover tales of selkies and sea-creatures in 16th-century riverside pub The Prospect of Whitby. This storytelling night invites you to enjoy traditional tales of the sea accompanied by the harp and discuss how their themes resonate today.

Listening Lives

Organised by the Wiener Library and the Holocaust Research Institute, Royal Holloway, University of London Thursday 21 November, 18:30–20:30 Wiener Library | Booking required After the Second World War, many non-German children were unaccompanied in Germany. The Allies’ tracing service tried to locate and repatriate them. This event combines a 1950 BBC radio play about the child searchers with a guide to the digitised archive.

Organised by Queen Mary University of London Saturday 23 November, 12:00–14:00 Gnome House, Walthamstow | Booking required Series: This Time It’s Personal This afternoon storytelling event is facilitated by Stories & Supper, a local refugee storytelling and street food project. Eat delicious snacks and listen to migrants, refugees and asylum seekers sharing their stories about journeys, home and belonging.

Being Human 2019

London

London WORKSHOP | LONDON

PERFORMANCE | LONDON

‘Displays of Power’ Community Takeover

It’s all the Raj

Organised by University College London Saturday 23 November, 13:00–17:00 Grant Zoology Museum | No booking required A celebratory and creative afternoon that will change your perception of the natural world. Create your own museum interpretation inspired by the Displays of Power exhibition that looks at where the animals in the collection came from. WORKSHOP | LONDON

Cartoneras in London Organised by the School of Advanced Study, University of London Saturday 23 November, 15:00–17:00 Migration Museum at The Workshop | Booking required Don’t miss this unique opportunity to visit the Migration Museum at The Workshop and discover untold stories from Latin America. Learn about the Cartoneras publishing phenomenon and the Latin American community in London while trying your hand at making your own cardboard book.

Organised by University College London Saturday 23 November, 19:00–21:00 Grant Zoology Museum | Booking required What’s funny about natural history museums? A lot. There are hidden stories in any natural history collection – if you know where to look. This is a surprising evening of comedy on the theme of decolonisation based on the success of the Bricks + Mortals comedy night led by curator Subhadra Das. TOUR | LONDON

The Secret Lives of Costume Organised by Queen Mary University of London Saturday 23 November, 12:00–13:15 and 15:00–16:15 National Theatre | Booking required | Fee: £3 - £5 Series: This Time It’s Personal Costume is often understood as a visual medium. This multi-sensory backstage walk at the National Theatre invites audiences to pay attention to the other senses involved, exploring the smells, sounds and sense of touch involved in wearing and making costume.

PERFORMANCE | LONDON

Classified: A Performance of Queer Dating Ads Organised by The National Archives Saturday 23 November, 16:00–17:30 Royal Vauxhall Tavern | Booking required This very special performance featuring Timberlina and Auntie Maureen will bring to life some of the coded, intriguing and sometimes naughty queer dating ads found at The National Archives and Bishopsgate Institute.

Being Human 2019

Book online: beinghumanfestival.org

Support us

"When academic researchers share their work with wider communities, everyone involved – researchers as well as public participants – benefits.” 2018 event organiser We believe that new discoveries in the humanities – from art history to classics, literature to philosophy, languages to history – should be something that anybody can benefit from, whatever their background. Hundreds of events and activities are organised as part of the Being Human festival every year, nearly all are free to attend and none of them costs more than £5. Our ambition is to ensure that the benefits of humanities research are felt at grassroots levels across the UK and beyond – especially in places where public engagement with higher education is low. To do this, we need your help. 52

Why we need your help Organising and promoting an event is expensive. Unlike other festivals we don’t recoup costs from ticket sales. We love the fact that almost all of our events are free, but to keep them that way we need more support. If you believe in what we do, and want to support our mission to ensure that the humanities are for everyone, please make a donation via beinghumanfestival.org/support-us. Alternatively, you can get in touch with the team directly to discuss your donation by emailing beinghuman@sas.ac.uk. Donations are processed by the University of London, where the festival is based, but 100% of your donation will go directly to the Being Human festival. To find out more about our work and read some case studies, visit beinghumanfestival.org/apply/ casestudies.

Being Human 2019

The Being Human festival team Professor Sarah Churchwell, festival director Dr Michael Eades, festival curator and manager Rose de Lara, public engagement officer (projects and communications) Dr Amanda Phipps, public engagement officer (programme development) We would like to thank all those who contributed to the Being Human 2019 programme. Special thanks to Rosemary Lambeth, Maureen McTaggart and Kristan Tetens. Design and production by Emma Bohan-Leigh Marketing and Communications School of Advanced Study, University of London Printed by CLOC

This material is available in alternative formats upon request. Please contact beinghuman@sas.ac.uk.

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Being Human festival School of Advanced Study Senate House Malet Street London WC1E 7HU United Kingdom Email: beinghuman@sas.ac.uk Web: beinghumanfestival.org