The University of Liverpool is celebrating the Eurovision Song Contest with a jam-packed programme of events and a campus make-over, including renaming the iconic Abercromby Square ‘ABBAcromby Square’ in tribute to the 1974 Eurovision winners.
In the weeks leading up to the competition the University will present a range of ‘United by Music’ activities that will promote learning, celebrate culture, and recognise the institution’s important connection with Ukraine.
From Monday 24 April, the city centre campus will be transformed – with University landmarks given a special Eurovision makeover. ABBAcromby Square will be the hub location for students to enjoy a range of events to help build excitement towards the big day.
A well-known local street artist and University of Liverpool alumnus has also been commissioned to create a new mural which will be unveiled in the coming weeks.
Significantly, undergraduate students from the Department of Languages, Cultures and Film are currently working with local school children on a project around learning languages through music that will culminate in a very special performance at the state-of-the-art Tung Auditorium.
Meanwhile, the University’s Heseltine Institute will be continuing its programme of dedicated policy briefings throughout the next month, covering topics including the relationship between LGBTQ+ communities and Eurovision, and an exploration of how hosting the event could help to address some of the challenges facing Liverpool’s live music industry.
The programme also features a number of public events in the lead up to Eurovision including LUMSOVISION: A Celebration of Euro-Pop Through the Decades on Saturday 6 May which will see the Liverpool University Music Society performing a selection of arrangements of classic Eurovision and Euro-pop pieces from across the decades.
Professor Gavin Brown, Pro Vice Chancellor for Education at the University of Liverpool said: “With the whole of the city in the grip of Eurovision fever, we’re really pleased to be launching our ‘United by Music’ programme of events with something for everyone – our students, staff and of course, Eurovision fans visiting Liverpool.
“The University plays a key role in the success of the city and is a driving force in its international profile. We also have a special relationship with Sumy State University in Ukraine. Our long-term twinning partnership means we have a close connection with the country and are supporting its people during this time of conflict and beyond. That’s why we’re really looking forward to playing a key role in the Eurovision celebrations across Liverpool.
“Our programme will ensure our campus is alive with events and activities, giving our students and staff the chance to enjoy this once in a lifetime opportunity. We’re also delighted to have our students working with children in schools across the Liverpool City Region – using what they’re learning as part of their degrees to benefit the wider community.
“We hope that over the coming weeks we will contribute to the positive legacy of Eurovision and create a unique experience for the University community and people across the Liverpool city region.”
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