Description
Sir Lenny Henry, one of the nation’s best-loved actors and and comedians, is joined by multi award-winning author and poet Lemn Sissay. The lives of these two giants of British culture intersected over fourty years ago, a chance encounter that changed Lemn’s life profoundly. Reunited once more, they share the stage for what promises to be an unforgettable event.
Rising to the Surface, charts Sir Lenny’s career through the 1980s and 90s, and his journey from seaside summer seasons to award-winning elder statesman of TV, and the highs and lows that came with success. Lemn explored his own childhood in his striking 2019 memoir, My Name Is Why; a story of neglect and determination, misfortune and hope, cruelty and triumph, the institutional care system, race, family and the meaning of home.
In this long-awaited conversation, these two colossal talents discuss their fascinating journeys and the obstacles they have overcome along the way.
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About the Speakers
Lemn Sissay
Lemn Sissay OBE is a poet playwright, memoirist performer and broadcaster. Lemn Sissay was named MBE for services to literature by The Queen in 2014. In 2021 he named OBE for services to Literature and Charity. He has honorary doctorates from Universities of Huddersfield, Manchester, Brunel, Kent and Essex. Lemn has been Chancellor of University since 2015. He has judged many literary competitions including 2020 Booker Prize, The Gold Man Booker Awards, The National Poetry Competition, The Forward Prize, The Ted Hughes Prize, Cardiff International poetry competition, The Creative Future Literary Awards, and the Bridport Prize. He lives in London and Manchester.
Sir Lenny Henry
Sir Lenny Henry has been a comedian since the age of 16. He has risen from being a cult star on children’s television to one of Britain’s best-known and most celebrated comedians, as well as a writer, radio DJ, TV presenter, co-founder of Comic Relief, and award-winning actor. Henry has a PhD in Media Arts, and in 2015 was awarded a knighthood for services to charity and drama. In 2018, BBC One aired The Lenny Henry Birthday Show to celebrate his career so far.
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