October always feels like a magical month. Maybe it’s the chill in the air letting us know that winter is on the way, or the firework displays and festivities of Halloween… whatever the reason, it feels like a good opportunity to become spellbound by myths, musicals and folklore.
On the 23rd October expect all hell to break loose with the West End musicial Hadestown with an exciting opportunity to meet the cast and crew online. If you’re a fan of literature then be sure to check out the Magic of Storytelling, an online event that will spin out stories to capture the imagination!
Here is Corinne Jones to share October’s offering in more detail!
Friday the 4th of October at 1pm - James Whistler
The Hunterian holds one of the largest collections of artworks produced by James McNeill Whistler (1834–1903), including around 120 pastels. These works have recently been studied as part of the Whistler Pastels Project (September 2022—June 2024), to better understand the artist’s methodology and materials. In this Friday Focus talk, join Tess Visser to explore her research findings, what this project has taught us about Whistler’s materials and methods, and what questions are still to be answered.
Saturday the 6th of October 9pm - Magic of Storytelling
Welcome to this online event where you can immerse yourself in the magic of storytelling! Enjoy both retellings of classic tales and original stories that will captivate your imagination. Whether you're a fan of traditional folklore or modern narratives, there's something here for everyone. Grab a cozy spot, tune in, and get ready to be transported to different worlds through the power of words. Don't miss out on this unique storytelling experience!
Thursday the 17th October at 7pm - Culture and Class
Dr Amélie Addison reveals how a bundle of donated manuscripts proved an unexpected treasure trove of insights into one family's labour and leisure over several generations, in the Scottish Borders and the Tyne Valley. She will explain their connections with famous names including composer William Shield and MP Joseph Cowen, show how their fortunes fluctuated, and question whether sources like this should prompt us to reconsider historical assumptions about culture and class.
Monday the 21st October at 2pm - The Wellside collection
In this online session, Kieran will focus on collections he has found by Irish wellsides — from rosaries and Marys to wrappers and stones — giving his take on the people who may have left them and the stories the objects might illicit.
For photographers and story collectors, this event offers a gentle roam through Ireland’s countryside and a view into the lives of others.
Tuesday the 22nd of October at 1pm - A Paradise of Books
Join local expert Kevin Faulkner for a virtual visit to Sir Thomas Browne's home at Haymarket, and enjoy an illustrated tour of the many Valuable and Uncommon books' in the Norwich physician-philosopher's library prior to its auction in 1711.
Tuesday the 22nd of October at 7pm - The Anglo Saxons
The Anglo-Saxons: A History of the Beginnings of England.
Wednesday the 23rd October - West End musical Hadestown
Join the UCL Greek and Latin department for a celebration of the award-winning West End musical Hadestown, featuring cast and crew from the show. Our expert panel of West End performers and academics from UCL and the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama will discuss all things myths and musicals, questioning why Orpheus still resonates with us today. There will also be an opportunity for an exclusive Q&A with the Hadestown team.
Thursday the 24th of October at 5.30pm - Chinese Dance
Workshop leader Annie will guide participants through dance exercises, steps and techniques. By the end of the lesson, you'll have learned a beautiful Chinese Xinjiang dance! The dance steps will be easy to follow, and you'll taste Chinese culture while having fun.
Name of Dance: Love in Flower
Friday the 25th of October at 7pm. - Meg Buick
Meg Buick has lived in Rome, Leeds and London and is currently based in Bristol. Since completing her post-graduate at the Royal Drawing School, she has specialised in Painting and Printmaking. Meg has exhibited work both in the UK and internationally. Her print ‘Dog’ was selected for the collection at the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford and the Jiangsu Art Museum in China. In 2018 artist Marcus Cornish selected her work for inclusion in Flowers Gallery‘s long-running West End exhibition programme "Artist of the Day".
And at your leisure
Here is a video about Xinjiang dance from the Chinese New Year Gala, which may help you learn more about the style of Xinjiang dance: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2jvQgElt2-M
Thanks and see you next month!
Corinne