Seamus Heaney HomePlace to hold weekend of events celebrating the 50th Anniversary of Seamus Heaney’s Collection, "North"

2025 marks the 50th anniversary of North, Heaney’s poetry collection that explores themes related to the Troubles in Northern Ireland and delves deeply into the past for images and symbols that resonate with the violence and political unrest of the time. The collection draws inspiration from the ancient remains of ‘bog bodies’, with poems such as ‘Bog Queen’, ‘The Grauballe Man’, ‘Punishment’, and ‘Strange Fruit’ providing poignant reflections on history, violence, and preservation.

To mark this significant milestone, Seamus Heaney HomePlace will host a series of special events including an exploration of Heaney’s fascination with ‘bog bodies’ and a discussion of a significant ‘bog body’ discovery outside Bellaghy in early 2024.

The celebrations will begin on Thursday 20th February with the HIVE Choir’s annual HIVEsplaining concert where they explain a scientific topic through song. This year, the choir will take on the mysterious world of the bog. Premiering new original songs about Irish boglands, the concert will delve into both the historical and mythological significance of bogs and peatlands, as well as the latest scientific findings on their ecological importance. Expect a captivating mix of lyrics inspired by archival sources, poetry, and traditional Irish melodies.

On Friday 21st February, Seamus Heaney HomePlace will welcome Professor Turi King, one of the world’s leading ‘rockstar genealogists’. A renowned expert in forensics, history, genealogy, and archaeology, Professor King is celebrated for her groundbreaking work in these fields. She gained widespread recognition for solving the forensic mystery of King Richard III’s remains and has since made significant contributions to genetic genealogy and forensic research. Her extensive experience also extends to the famous Kaspar Hauser conspiracy, as well as her appearances on BBC’s DNA Family Secrets as co-presenter and Sky History’s Unearthed where she investigated the ‘bog body’ of the Tollund Man. Professor King will share her expertise in genetic research and discuss her notable work, followed by an audience Q&A.

Saturday 22nd February will feature a one-day symposium in collaboration with National Museums NI to celebrate the discovery of prehistoric remains in a bog near Bellaghy in October 2023. This discovery, confirmed as Iron Age human remains, is the first authenticated prehistoric bog-preserved human body found in Northern Ireland. The symposium will bring together experts in the field of prehistoric ‘bog bodies’ to discuss the archaeological significance of the find, the role of boglands in preserving ancient human remains, and how Heaney’s poetry draws inspiration from such ancient remnants. This event will highlight the deep connection between history, archaeology, and Heaney’s work and the significance of these finds in understanding both the past and Heaney’s poetic vision.

On Sunday 23rd February, Seamus Heaney HomePlace will celebrate the 50th anniversary of the publication of North with a special evening of poetry and music, featuring renowned actor Paul McGann alongside one of the UK’s finest pianists, Charles Owen. Paul McGann, best known for his roles in Doctor Who, The Monocled Mutineer, and Withnail and I, will read a selection of poems from North, while Charles Owen, a world-class pianist, will perform thematic solo piano pieces that complement Heaney’s poetry. Charles has performed at prestigious venues worldwide, including Carnegie Hall and the Moscow Conservatoire, and is a Professor of Piano at the Guildhall School. Together, McGann and Owen will create a magical evening that explores the power of Heaney’s words through music and performance.

Cathy Brown, Manager of Seamus Heaney HomePlace, commented:

“We are absolutely delighted to celebrate the 50th anniversary of North, one of Seamus Heaney’s most powerful and transformative works. This collection has had such a profound impact on the world of poetry, and it speaks so powerfully to our cultural landscape and history. We are excited to bring together a remarkable line-up of events that not only honour Heaney’s legacy but also highlight the enduring relevance of North. These events offer a unique opportunity to delve deeper into the themes and landscapes that inspired Heaney’s unforgettable work.”

This special weekend promises to be a rich and engaging celebration of Seamus Heaney’s poetic legacy and his deep connection to history and the landscape. To learn more about these events and to book tickets, please visit our website at www.seamusheaneyhome.com or contact our box office on 028 7938 7444.

Join us as we commemorate 50 years of North with a weekend of exploration, reflection, and celebration.