COMEDY Liverpool Comedy Festival: The best and biggest names in stand-up celebrate the city's unique wit. Various venues, May 29 to June 15
ROCK
Liverpool Sound: Sir Paul McCartney celebrates Liverpool's status as world capital of pop. The complete line-up has yet to be announced, but is thought to include several high-profile acts.
Anfield stadium, June 1
VISUAL ART
Gustav Klimt: The first comprehensive exhibition of Klimt's work staged in the UK.
Tate Liverpool, May 30 to Aug 31
THEATRE
King Lear: Going back to his roots, actor Pete Postlethwaite plays Shakespeare's Lear at his theatrical alma mater.
Everyman Theatre, Oct 30 to Nov 29
CLASSICAL MUSIC
Sir Simon Rattle: A concert with his Berliner Philharmoniker orchestra for Liverpool-born Rattle, one of the world's most acclaimed conductors.
Liverpool Philharmonic Hall, Sept 4
ARCHITECTURE
Le Corbusier: The life and work of the most famous and influential architect of the 20th century.
Metropolitan Cathedral, Oct 2 to Jan 17, 2009
• For further details of these and many other events, visit www.liverpool08.com
