"Every quotation contributes something to the stability or enlargement of the language."


"He that reads books of science, though without any fixed idea of improvement, will grow more knowing; he that entertains himself with moral or religious treatises, will imperceptibly advance in goodness."


"Some read that they may embellish their conversation, or shine in dispute; but the most prevalent reason of study is the impossibility of finding another amusement equally cheap or constant."


Dr. Samuel Johnson (creator of the English Dictionary)

 

 Storyline Journeys

Dates for your Diary January - April 2010

Click here to view last years events.

January

Saturday January 16th

At Home with Benjamin Franklin

At the Benjamin Franklin House, nr Trafalgar Sq

Bringing to life the dramatic story of Benjamin Franklin at his only remaining home. This impressive townhouse in the heart of London is a historical gem and much more than just a collection of artefacts. A unique historical experience will give you a sense of the complexity of the man, his passions and the uncertain times in which he lived. Drinks, canapés and dinner (optional.)

February

Saturday February 27th

Crime writers' Literary Lunch

With highly acclaimed biographer Andrew Lycett. 'Conan Doyle - The Man Who Created Sherlock Holmes' is a ground-breaking biography of the creator of Britain's best-loved detective. Crime writer Frances Fyfield will talk about her life' 'in crime' along with her latest novel. 'Cold to the Touch'. She learned about murder and crime while working as a solicitor for the Crown Prosecution Service. Park Plaza Sherlock Holmes Hotel Baker St.

March

Saturday March 19th

The Famous Miss Burney

Dr. Johnson’s House, Gough Square

This lively period piece is drawn by actress Karin Fernald from the unique journals and letters of Jane Austen’s favourite authoress, Fanny Burney (1752 – 1840). Fanny had an amazingly accurate memory for dialogue and many of her journals are in dramatic form and very funny indeed. Through the success of Evelina, her first novel, she came into contact with celebrities of the day such as Dr Johnson, David Garrick and Sheridan. According to Kate Chisholm, author of Fanny Burney: Her Life, this show is “A Lot Of Fun.”

April

Saturday April 9th

Hampstead Theatre Swiss Cottage
Anderson’s English - When Charles Dickens met Hans Christian Anderson
Private drinks reception. Special invitation for members to meet the director and cast after the performance.

Children’s writer Hans Christian Anderson arrives unannounced for a stay at Gad’s Hill Place, in the Kent marshes home to Charles Dickens and his family who appear to live a life of bliss. Anderson’s broken English prevents him from sensing the tensions and growing strangeness in the Dickens’s marriage. By award winning playwright Sebastian Barry. Directed by Max Stafford Clark starring Niamh Cusack, David Rintout and Danny Sepani.

Dinner afterwards at a nearby restaurant.

Saturday April 25th

The Best of Betjeman

Sir John Betjeman, that curious combination of eccentricity and Englishness - key ingredients to his enduring popularity.

In his show, actor Lance Pierson tells the story of Betjeman’s heartbreaks and triumphs both through his most popular and significant poems and by weaving a narrative about the whimsical, self-deprecating, hilariously funny best- loved poet. Venue to be announced.