Delia Derbyshire Day at Manchester Central Library

23 November 2023 marks the 60th anniversary of Doctor Who and its hugely influential theme tune, realised by electronic music pioneer Delia Derbyshire. Head to Central Library for an afternoon of activity to celebrate the heritage of this iconic piece of music.

Whether you are a fan of Doctor Who, electronic music, love the history of TV, or just want to hum the theme tune on a loop – come and explore Delia’s music, play with weird and beautiful sounds, and experience new artists’ commissions in response to Delia’s legacy.

4-7pm – Come and discover the work and life of Delia Derbyshire through pop-up installations in the Henry Watson Music Library. Free and suitable for all ages–pop in at any time.

4-5pm – Make a Wobbulator workshop in Manchester Histories Hub. A unique chance to be led through the process of making a wobbulator (BBC DIY instrument used to create Doctor Who melody) and experimenting with making sounds. £3.50 per person (this workshop is for 18+ years) book your space here.

6-6.45pm – Experience two new audiovisual pieces created by pairs of artists Joy Ingle/Laura Spark and Joel Foster/Alexis Maxwell. Head to the Henry Watson Music Library for an in-conversation with the artists to learn more about their process and exploration of the Delia Derbyshire Archive, which lives here in Manchester. Free activity.

For more information about Delia Derbyshire Day, visit its dedicated website.

This event is produced by Delia Derbyshire Day in partnership with Brighter Sound and Manchester Histories.