Conference to explore work of U2

You've bought the CDs and attended the concerts. Now the only thing left to do is to go to the conference.

You've bought the CDs and attended the concerts. Now the only thing left to do is to go to the conference.

A three-day conference exploring the music, work and influence of U2 will be held in Durham, North Carolina in October.

More than 40 presentations will be given by an international line-up of academics and entertainment figures.

Its organiser, Dr Scott Calhoun, assistant professor of English at Cedarville University in Ohio, believes this is the first academic conference on the band.

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"This will be the place to meet and hear people long connected to U2 and to covering their career," he said.

Speakers will include Rolling Stone contributing editor Anthony DeCurtis, Daily Telegraphcolumnist Neil McCormick, Ugandan AIDS activist Agnes Nyamawaro and Matt McGee, founder of @U2 (www.atu2.com ).

Attendees will also hear from Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum curator Jim Henke via video.

Topics will range from "U2 and the Politics of Irony" to "Bono Versus Nick Cave on Jesus" and "U2: An Elevated Brand".

Speakers will also examine U2's influence on the entertainment industry and on humanitarian and social justice initiatives.

"We know U2's appeal is without borders and everyone is welcome. Whether you come in tweed or leather, do vinyl or download, you'll connect with people who want to talk about U2," Dr Calhoun said.

See www.U2conference.com for more information.

Alison Healy

Alison Healy

Alison Healy is a contributor to The Irish Times