The Seamus Heaney HomePlace, a new arts and literary centre will be officially opened today in Bellaghy, Co. Derry.
The £4.25 million building will celebrate the life and literature of the Nobel prize winner.
HomePlace is situated where Heaney spent his formative years which inspired much of his work over almost fifty years.
An official opening ceremony will take place later today with around 200 guests invited to the event which will include a performance by singer Paul Brady.
Marie Heaney at launch of Seamus Heaney HomePlace in Bellaghy, Co Derry today. pic.twitter.com/1dY5Dy0h1e
— Gerard Moriarty (@GerryMoriartyIT) September 29, 2016
Speaking ahead of the official opening event, Councillor Trevor Wilson said: “In the last number of weeks as we’ve been preparing to open, training staff and testing elements of the building, those involved have found their own journey through the exhibition which celebrates the life and work of Seamus Heaney to be a moving, and at times, emotional experience."
“This kind of response shows very clearly how significant Seamus Heaney and his work have been, and remain, for a great number of people – and that goes for the true poetry fans, as well as those with a natural curiosity and a wish to see and experience what’s on offer."
“And, while the exhibition is naturally the focal point of HomePlace, we also have The Helicon, a performance space which we will use for drama, concerts, recitals, song, talks, lectures and discussions, all using Seamus Heaney’s literature as their ‘jumping off’ point.
The HomePlace website can be visited by clicking here.
Close to Home, Season One programme now released! To book tickets call Box Office on 028 7938 7444. pic.twitter.com/TUFPZkeoJH
— Seamus Heaney Home (@SHHomePlace) September 28, 2016
