The Arts Society West Wales: Theatre-going in Georgian England

Lecture starts at 11am

The Georgian era stretches from 1715-1830, and during that time the theatre was the main place of entertainment in London and other English cities. Georgian theatre, both spoken and sung, produced masterpieces of plays and operas by Sheridan, Handel, Arne, Gay and many others, and was the showcase for the skills of actors like Kean and Garrick, and singers like the castrato Farinelli and the soprano Mrs Billington. Caricaturists adored using the London stage as a subject for often cruel satirical prints, while painters from Hogarth to Reynolds captured the image of the stage. The buildings and decorations of the theatres were notable in themselves, and some survive to this day.

Simon Rees Studied at Colchester Royal Grammar School and Trinity College, Cambridge, receiving a BA and an MA in English Literature. Taught in Italy and Japan, exploring the art and architecture of both countries. From 1989 to 2012 was Dramaturg at Welsh National Opera in Cardiff, working with set, costume and props designers and giving lectures on their work in opera production. Now a freelance writer and lecturer, lectures widely on opera, art history and literature, travelling extensively with travel companies. He has published several novels, including the award-winning The Devil's Looking-Glass, poems and opera librettos.

For more infoamtion please contact – 01646 636541 or email rosemary.arts.society@gmail.com

The 2023/2024 Programme is now available on The Arts Society West Wales's website HERE