Free Screenings Celebrate Sir David Attenborough’s 100th Birthday
By Community Correspondent
The University of Leicester is inviting the public to celebrate the 100th birthday of Sir David Attenborough at special free screenings of his epic Ocean documentary.
The public screenings of the 2025 film, which Sir David has described as one of the most important of his career, will take place at the Attenborough Arts Centre, in May.
Book free tickets for the screenings on the Attenborough Arts Centre website.
Ocean is a breath-taking and deeply moving journey beneath the waves, guided by Sir David’s iconic narration.
The film takes viewers on a breathtaking journey showing there is nowhere more vital for our survival, more full of life, wonder, or surprise, than the ocean. The celebrated broadcaster and filmmaker reveals how his lifetime has coincided with the great age of ocean discovery.
Through spectacular sequences featuring coral reefs, kelp forests and the open ocean, Sir David shares why a healthy ocean keeps the entire planet stable and flourishing.
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Stunning, immersive cinematography showcases the wonder of life under the seas and exposes the realities and challenges facing our ocean as never-before-seen, from destructive fishing techniques to mass coral reef bleaching.
Yet the story is one of optimism, with Sir David pointing to inspirational stories from around the world to deliver his greatest message: the ocean can recover to a glory beyond anything anyone alive has ever seen.
Andrew Fletcher, Attenborough Arts Centre Director, said:
“The screenings of Ocean are a fitting way to honour Sir David’s life and work, which has had a positive impact on millions of people around the world. He embodies the values of the University of Leicester and is a true Citizen of Change.
“Having grown up on campus during his formative years, Sir David has always championed Leicester as his city, and so we’re delighted to be able to invite the diverse communities from the area to enjoy the screenings at no cost to themselves.
“This reflects the University’s civic commitment to serve those who live in the city and the wider region.”
The University’s history is entwined with the Attenborough family, with Sir David’s father, Frederick Attenborough, appointed as Principal of the University College 1932-1951.
His sons Richard, David and John grew up on campus.
Attenborough Arts Centre was established in 1997 by Lord Richard Attenborough, with his brother, Sir David, officially opening its new galleries in 2016.
The screenings take place at Attenborough Arts Centre, in Lancaster Road, on Friday 1 May at 12pm and 7pm, followed by a 3pm screening on Saturday 2 May.
Tickets are free, but must be booked in advance on the Attenborough Arts Centre website.
