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The Divine Comedy: Liberation/Promenade

Venus, Cupid, Folly & Time

Neil Hannon in a black and white suit and tie standing in front of a blue pyramid

As part of a five-night residency celebrating their 30th anniversary, Neil Hannon’s The Divine Comedy, performing as an eleven-piece ensemble, play the band’s first two full albums in their entirety.

Liberation is for Hannon the point at which The Divine Comedy found its musical identity. Flitting between highbrow and low brow, with tracks inspired by Fitzgerald (‘Bernice Bobs Her Hair’), Wordsworth (‘Lucy’) and Mr. Benn (‘Festive Road’), it’s a perfect introduction to Hannon’s intellectual vivacity and trademark wit.

Promenade is something of a concept album – a day in the life of two friends, siblings or lovers in a sleepy seaside town. The influence of Michael Nyman's popular minimalism is evident from the opening bars, while Hannon’s interest in philosophy and literature continues, with the protagonists discussing books, film religion and childhood.

This concert will start at the advertised start time and running times will be confirmed closer to the event

This concert is subject to Government Guidance relating to Covid-19.

Produced by the Barbican

Read the programme

Black and white image of Neil Hannon posing beneath a statue

Read the programme

Neil Hannon walks through the architecture of his highly anticipated five-night residency, charting an illustrious career spanning 30 years.

Discover

Photo of a man looking directly into the camera with a black suit and glasses on

Listen: Liberation

Take a listen to The Divine Comedy's album Liberation

Photo of a man looking directly into the camera with a black suit and glasses on

Listen: Promenade

Take a listen to The Divine Comedy's album, Promenade

Photo of a man sitting posing towards the camera with black glasses and suit

Watch: Something For The Weekend

Watch the Official Music Video for The Divine Comedy's single, Something For The Weekend.

Barbican Hall