Launch of Benjamin Britten: The Film and The Book

Published on isbi School News dated Monday 21st of January 2013

The first screening of a new film, charting Benjamin Britten's life at Gresham's school in the late 1930s, will take place at the Auden Theatre on 9th February at 1pm. There will also be the chance to meet Paul Kildea, the author of a new biography of the composer.

Paul Kildea is a conductor, broadcaster and renowned Britten expert who will be available to answer questions and sign copies of his book.

Tony Britten's feature length drama/documentary, 'Benjamin Britten Peace and Conflict', addresses for the first time on screen the crucial importance of pacifism in the composer's life and work. The film is narrated by legendary actor John Hurt. The dramatic elements of the film illustrate Britten's time at Gresham's School and are performed by a number of Gresham's pupils from both the Prep and Senior Schools, who also had the opportunity to perform some of the musical excerpts in the film. They join actors such as rising star Alex Lawther, who plays the part of young Ben and celebrated musicians such as tenor James Gilchrist and pianist Iain Burnside.

The Britten Arts Festival currently taking place at Gresham's provides a broad range of events paying tribute to Benjamin Britten which are open to the public. A full listing of the events on offer is available at www.greshams.com/britten100.

For more information, please contact the box office on 01263 713444 or boxoffice@greshams.com.