The Seminars are an opportunity for members to talk about the topics that interest them – and it is amazing how wide the range of topics can be. Some of the Seminars have led to the formation of regular groups – e.g. Philosophy and American History – others have just provided a fascinating morning for all those who have attended, for example the experiences of evacuees and Alan Hills experiences on Christmas Island
We meet at the Abbott Hall Social Centre on Dowkers Lane. Dates and times vary, but coffee is available at 15 minutes before the start. The format is usually a presentation followed by questions and discussion – but it’s all very informal and flexible depending on the topic.
Everyone in U3A is always very welcome to come along and we look forward to seeing you.
For more information contact the coordinator Terry McIntee.
The dates for the next Seminars are as follows, but do check the website and the newsletters for further details nearer the time.
Wed 22 May 2013 : 10 00 am - Two Flamboyant Fathers
Lead by Jackie Hinton
Jackie says: 'This talk is based on the book “Two Flamboyant Fathers” by Nicolette Devas. It’s the story of a child growing up in the artistic Bohemia of the 1920s. Nicolette’s father was Francis Macnamara, a poet, philosopher and Irish Landowner. Her surrogate father was Augustus John. The story is a fascinating one, including Yeats, Shaw, T. E. Lawrence, Laurie Lee, Henry Lamb and other famous artists and writers. Also, part of the story is Nicolette’s sister Caitlin, who married Dylan Thomas. A story of geniuses!' Sounds intriguing, doesn't it? Don't miss it!
Recent Seminars
Oh! I Do Like to be Beside the Seaside
Presented by Bob Lear.
Outside it was cold and icy; inside it was - cold and icy! The heating wasn't working! But we wrapped up and headed off to the seaside! In an interesting and comprehensive illustrated survey of Blackpool, Bob took us from the town’s origins as a small fishing village up to the present day and its status as a world-famous resort. Bob told us about the creation of the piers, the Winter Gardens, the iconic Tower, many of the famous people who have performed there, and much more.
This was a truly fascinating talk. Thanks Bob!
Terry McIntee
Problems with Shakespeare
At this seminar on 23 May I tried to present some of the latest research into the, in my view, important question: who really wrote the plays and poems published under the name 'Shakespeare?' This proved somewhat controversial, and the Seminar was not as popular as some.
Terry McIntee
The Age of Stonehenge
The morning of 22nd Feb. was cold, wet, and windy, and I wondered if anyone would turn up for the Seminar. I needn't have worried. People came - and kept on coming. Before long we had a hall full and I was putting out extra chairs. I think I can speak for all when I say how much we enjoyed Carol Allen's presentation. Stonehenge is such an icon. I'm sure we all know what it looks like, but it was great to have an expert like Carol to talk about it, and the people who lived at that time, so interestingly and with such authority.
Terry McIntee
