21 December 2004

Eddi Reader launches 2005 lectures

The University of Dundee's annual Saturday Evening Lecture Series kicks off on January 8 2005 with an eagerly awaited performance from the acclaimed singer Eddi Reader.

In a unique collaboration with Dundee Rep, the first lecture 'The Voices of Robert Burns' combines a commentary from renowned Burns expert Dr Ken Simpson of the University of Strathclyde with a musical performance from the acclaimed Scots singer Eddi Reader.

Ken Simpson is an acknowledged world authority on Burns. He will provide an insight into Burns' life as a traditionalist and a radical, an egalitarian and philanderer. Eddi will honour Burns with an enchanting vocal performance of his works for which she has received international acclaim.

Next year's series will range from Burns to the Beano, with Canadian, Peter Hansen travelling to Dundee to discuss the history of the famous Beano and Dandy comics. Other lectures in the series include Dr Stephen Minger who will be discussing stem-cell research, a contentious issue that was widely debated in the recent American presidential election. Lord Puttnam, the renowned film producer with credits including 'Chariots of Fire' will also deliver a lecture.

Full details of all lectures will be announced early in 2005.

'The Voices of Robert Burns' will take place on Saturday 8 January, Dundee Rep Theatre at 8pm. Tickets cost £12.50 and are available now from Dundee Rep on 01382 223530. Book early to avoid disappointment.

2005 dates as follows:

• January 8, Eddi Reader and Dr Ken Simpson, 'The Voices of Robert Burns', Dundee Rep Theatre
• March 12, University of Dundee's Professor Simon Unwin, Chair in Architecture
• March 19, Peter Hansen, Beano and Dandy expert
• March 26, Dr Stephen Minger, Director-Stem Cell Laboratory, Kings College, London
• May 7, Lord Puttnam, film producer 'Chariots of Fire' and 'Killing Fields'