Celebrating Britain, Canada and the arts

The 150^th anniversary of Canadian Confederation will be celebrated in a three-day conference supported by Cardiff University.

Britain, Canada and the Arts highlights the strong culture of artistic exchange, influence, and dialogue between Canada and Britain, with a particular emphasis on the decades after World War II.

Organised by Dr Irene Morra of the University’s School of English, Communication and Philosophy, the event will bring together scholars and practitioners from disciplines including theatre, film, history, politics and visual art.

Two rare screenings

As part of the conference, influential producers Tony Garnett (Up the Junction; Cathy Come Home) and Kenith Trodd (Pennies from Heaven; The Singing Detective) feature in conversation with TV consultant Dick Fiddy and producer John Wyver (15 June). Two rare screenings from Sydney Newman’s Armchair Theatre follow the discussion.

A screening of Robin and Mark and Richard III (16 June) will also explore the legacy of renowned Shakespearean director Robin Phillips and the intricacies of creative collaboration in the theatre. Following the screening, acclaimed director and writer Susan Coyne (Slings and Arrows, Mozart in the Jungle) participates in a question and answer session, chaired by current Stratford Festival Director of Archives, Liza Giffen.

Britain, Canada and the Arts takes place in London at the Institute of English Studies (15 – 17 June). Conference registration (£65/£55 concessions) and special Screening of Robin Phillips’ /Q&A tickets (£5) are available from the Institute of English Studies, University of London.