Delia Derbyshire Day

23 November 2023 marks the 60th anniversary of Doctor Who and its hugely influential theme tune, realised by electronic music pioneer Delia Derbyshire. Join us 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 loop – come and explore Delia’s music, play with weird and wonderful 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 audio–visual pieces created by pairs of artists Joy Ingle/Laura Spark and Joel Foster/Alexis Maxwell. Join us in the Henry Watson Music Library in conversation with the artists to find out 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 our dedicated website

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

Gratefully supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund

Free and paid activities – see above