Our next lecture will be given by will be on Tuesday 26th Febuary at 7pm (doors open for refreshments at 6.30pm).   This month's speaker is Bertie Pearce and his topic is Punch and Judy – a subversive symbol from Commedia Del’ Arte to the present day

You think you're not interested in Punch and Judy?  You will be! Mr Punch is probably the most famous puppet character of all time. His comic irreverence gave Punch magazine its title. His anarchic vitality has inspired opera, ballet and punk rock and his enduring popularity has seen his likeness on goods ranging from Victorian silverware to computer video games. Appearing in England in 1662, Punch is descended from the Italian Clown Pulcinella of the 15th century Commedia Del’Arte tradition.  Even today, this ‘Lord of Misrule’ uses his slapstick to dispense with oppressive authority, be it politicians, political correctness or the devil, while proclaiming his notorious refrain; ‘That’s the way to do it!”

The event is free to Arts Society members; £10 to non-members (£5 to students) including pre-lecture refreshments. For membership details, and further information, see www.theartssociety.org/coventry 

Do come to join us at the Theatre at Barr's Hill School, Radford Road, Coventry, CV1 4BU.  There is free onsite parking and is easy to get to either by car, on foot from the city centre or by bus.  A separate document on the right-hand side of this webpage gives directions. You can also download details of all subsequent lectures in the 2023-24 programmes via a link there.