Hans Christian Andersen.

20 May-2 October 2005. As the British Library puts it, this is a free exhibition for people of all ages marking Hans Christian Andersens bicentenary with a celebration of the Danish writers work and legacy. Andersens fairy stories are universally loved and this exhibition uncovers some of the underlying themes to his work as well as the story of his humble beginnings in Denmark before becoming a household name in Britain. Some of his best-known stories and characters such as the Ugly Duckling, the Little Mermaid and the Little Match Girl are depicted in a new light as parallel events in his own life. There is an interactive part to the exhibition including a soundscape of Andersens stories with puppets, projections and props that recreate his characters. The featured material comes from the British Librarys own collections as well as from Denmark and include original manuscripts, illustrations and early editions of his books. Entry is free. Mon-Fri 09.30-18.00 (Tue until 20.00, Sat 09.30-17.00, Sun, 11.00-17.00).