Cambridge gedenkt Syd Barrett

Cambridge is set to see a huge celebration of the life of Pink Floyd visionary, Syd Barrett throughout July. The City Wakes is an ambitious insight into Syd’s early life, organised by arts and mental health charity and professional production house Escape Artists, which will celebrate the creative mind of this fascinating figure. The series of exciting events has the full support of Syd’s family and friends.

Highlights will include:

• An exhibition of Syd Barrett paintings including many never seen before works, displayed alongside extremely rare Syd Barrett related memorabilia, original pieces from Pink Floyd’s legendary designer Storm Thorgerson, and archival photos from world-famous photographer Mick Rock
• Concert performances presenting fresh interpretations of Syd’s greatest songs. Directed by award-winning musician and composer, Simon Gunton, the production will showcase specially-created video art and stunning Floyd-esque lighting displays and will culminate in a one-off gala performance of the concert
• A new book of interviews and memorabilia, based on the memories and collections of Syd’s friends and family. Focussing on Syd’s early life and the exciting Cambridge cultural scene in which he was such key figure, the book includes interviews, photos, drawings and letters that have never been seen in print before • Special guided tours for fans of all the major Syd Barrett and Pink Floyd-related historic sites in Cambridge For more info about the events head to www.thecitywakes.org.uk

23.01.2008: A multi-media stage production The City Wakes – a tribute to Syd Barrett is to be performed in Cambridge this autumn. The production is endorsed by Rosemary Breen, Syd’s sister (www.thecitywakes.org.uk) for what Rosemary has said about the project and is benefiting from the close involvement of a number of Syd’s friends. Centred on outstanding reworkings of Syd’s songs, the production will include a magical live performance by the Grasshopper’s Green Herbarian Band, as well as fascinating new video work tracking Syd’s art and the explosion of avant-garde culture in the 1960s Cambridge. Syd’s life is also reflected in The City Wakes’ more serious side. Developed in co-operation with community groups from around Cambridge, The City Wakes aims to highlight the role of the arts in mental health. All proceeds from the production will go to UK charity Escape Artists

Info: Sarah Allan