The next two seasons for Hull’s spectacular cultural year are packed with a thrilling line-up of music, family events, theatre, art and festivals. Here’s a brief guide to our top 10 must-sees
Larkin Exhibition: New Eyes Each Year
A biographical exhibition of Britain’s best-loved poet where he spent 30 years as librarian. Grayson Perry is The Philip Larkin Society Distinguished Guest Lecturer.
Brynmor Jones Library, University of Hull, 5 Jul–1 Oct
Cairns
Stunning life-sized figures by international sculptor Steinunn Thórarinsdóttir will form a cultural trail through our beautiful campus.
University of Hull campus, 29 Apr–8 Oct
Freedom Festival
The acclaimed festival returns for its 10th year with a huge programme of arts, music and dance. The University’s Wilberforce Institute for Slavery and Emancipation will host high-profile talks on what freedom means to us.
Various locations during Sep
Hull New Theatre and The Royal Ballet
Following a £16m-revamp, Hull New Theatre reopens with The Royal Ballet. Joining on stage will be some of Hull’s dance talent including the University’s Honorary Graduate, Xander Parish.
Hull New Theatre, 16 Sep
LGBT 50
The first ever UK Pride will be held in Hull recognising the city’s contribution to liberty, tolerance and emancipation around the world and kicking off a week of LGBT 50 celebrations.
Hull City Centre, 22–29 Jul
Paul Smith to J K Rowling: BP Portrait Award Commissions from the National Portrait Gallery
An exhibition of the best in contemporary portraiture – including representations of J K Rowling, Ian McKellen and Helen Mirren.
Brynmor Jones Library, University of Hull, 29 Mar–11 Jun
Children’s Laureate and literature festival
The 10th Waterstones Children’s Laureate will be announced in city and the Big Malarkey brings books and poetry to life for 0-16 year olds with Hull’s first children’s literature festival.
Various Hull locations, June and July
Contains Strong Language
A brand new spoken word and poetry festival. Packed with world premieres, special gala readings, events and concerts. BBC national and local radio stations will record and broadcast much of the festival.
Various locations, 28 Sep–1 Oct
Turner Prize and Skin
The Ferens Art Gallery hosts the Turner Prize and presents a major exhibition exploring Skin, including works by Ron Mueck, Lucian Freud and the first showing of Spencer Tunick’s
Sea of Hull.
Ferens Art Gallery (Skin, 22 Apr – 13 Aug) Turner Prize (26 Sep 2017 to 7 Jan 2018)