Russell’s Reimagined Reiths: A Weekend of Creative Exploration

Get ready for a weekend of creativity exploring the contested histories of one of the most celebrated public figures of British philosophy, with artists Lottie McCarthy and Toby Kidd.

Over a two-day workshop, we will reimagine Bertrand Russell’s famous Reith Lectures, collaboratively writing and performing new, unique versions using poetry, rap, experimental lectures or any other form of creative writing or expression that sparks your imagination.

Our revisited Reiths will explore Russell’s own history and ethics – from his impressive achievements and the privilege that enabled them, to his beliefs on eugenics and people with mental illness or neurodiversity.

We will look at the controversies of commemorative statues, who decides the stories we tell, the role of power, privilege and class, and binaries of good and bad.

Programme:

Saturday 29 July: On the first day, you will form groups based on the four Reith lecture topics we’ll be exploring. Using materials from the extensive library at Conway Hall and specially commissioned research by Camden Council, you will engage in democratic and collaborative writing sessions, to contribute your thoughts, ideas, and beliefs on these interesting and complex topics. You will be guided through a number of creative exercises to help you explore, unpack, and express the issues.

Sunday 30 July: Each group will perform their “lecture” in creative and comfortable ways. You will be free to use props to add a touch of surrealism to your creative endeavour! We will also use anonymous writing exercises to share, respond, and connect to the finished work of other groups in authentic, compassionate, and fun ways.

This event is in partnership with Camden Council