Supported by Syd's family and friends, The City Wakes is the first ever official tribute to Syd Barrett - original front-man and songwriter for Pink Floyd. A celebration of Syd's creativity, The City Wakes focuses on Syd's early life in Cambridge, providing a showcase for his remarkable talent and painting a picture of the explosive and vibrant early 1960s cultural scene in which he grew up.
Involving many of Syd's former friends - not least Storm Thorgerson and Mick Rock - The City Wakes includes concert performances, exhibitions, guided tours, music workshops, a 1960s style ‘happening', talks and a new book of interviews and memorabilia.
The City Wakes has been developed by Escape Artists, a UK arts and mental health charity and professional production house.
Highlights will include:
* 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.
* 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.
* 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 a 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.
