Award-winning actress Dame Harriet Walter is set to join an inspiring line-up of guest speakers at Westminster Abbey Institute’s forthcoming wartime poetry evening, with the name of one other renowned actor still to be announced.
Taking place on Wednesday 26th November from 6.30pm to 7.45pm in the historic setting of Westminster Abbey, Walter will read works from war poets, both celebrated and less familiar, as part of the Institute’s ‘A call to words: An evening exploring poetry in wartime’ event.
The evening will be chaired by broadcaster Kavita Puri, with speakers including Christina Lamb OBE, Chief Foreign Correspondent at The Sunday Times; Louise Sandher-Jones MP, Minister for Veterans and People; and the Very Revd Dr David Hoyle KCVO MBE, Dean of Westminster – all bringing to life the power of language to capture the experience of war and shape remembrance.
The event is part of the Institute’s Autumn Series and is set to be an evocative evening exploring the enduring value of war poetry, curated by spoken-word producer Amelia Richards and film and theatre director Josie Rourke. From the poets of historic campaigns to the words being written today, this live performance and conversation will reveal how poetry can resource, renew, and give voice to those who face conflict and its legacies.
Attendees will also be able to read a selection of poetry written by serving members of the armed forces and veterans, which will be displayed in Poets’ Corner. Ahead of the event, The Institute issued a callout for personnel to share their original works.
Dr Edge Watchorn, Director at Westminster Abbey Institute, said: “Josie and Amelia have helped to curate an impressive line-up of speakers, and we’re honoured to have Harriet playing a part in what promises to be an incredible evening. Wartime poetry has long given voice to emotions that otherwise can be difficult to express, speaking across generations through shared experiences of loss, remembrance and hope. Hearing these powerful words spoken within the walls of the Abbey reminds us of the unique ability of poetry to connect, heal and inspire peace.”
Westminster Abbey Institute was established in 2013 to nurture and revitalise moral and spiritual values in public life and service. Drawing on the Abbey’s resources of spirituality and theological learning, it brings together leaders from public institutions and public servants of all faiths and none to convene discussion, nourish reflection and inspire regeneration.
The Institute’s Autumn Series is part of a wider programme of events running throughout the year. It aims to foster meaningful discussion on public life’s biggest questions, with inspiring speakers exploring ethics, moral leadership and societal values, set within the Abbey’s unique and historic setting.
All Westminster Abbey Institute Autumn Series events are free of charge. To book tickets and for more information about each event, visit www.westminster-abbey.org/institute/public-programmes.
