'I Have a Whole School of Tongues in This Belly'

Saturday 9th November, 1.30-3.30pm

Explore your voice with Mathew Collins. "I HAVE A WHOLE SCHOOL OF TONGUES IN THIS BELLY." Voice coach Matthew Collins delights in encouraging people from all walks of life to speak Shakespeare's words out loud. His clients range from business people to ex-prisoners to members of the Women's Institute. And on 9th November he's offering an afternoon workshop in the Brompton Cemetery Chapel on Speaking Shakespeare's Sonnets.

The sonnets' 14 lines offer easy ways into working on Shakespeare's language. And on your own speaking voice. From the joyful 'Shall I compare thee to a summer's day?' to the self-loathing 'Th'expense of spirit...', they also offer richly varied poetic tones and textures — with rhythms for the mouth to feel, speak and explore. So, come and explore Shakespeare's sonnets as you explore your own speaking voice. For more details and to reserve a place, please contact Matthew directly at matthewcollinspost@gmail.com

'From a Mummified Rat to Creation of South Ken — The Life of Sir Henry Cole'

Saturday 30th November, 2.00-3.30pm

Talk by Alice MacDonnell, a great (x4) granddaughter of Henry Cole, the founder of V&A Museum etc. and buried at Brompton Cemetery.

Sir Henry Cole's life achievements are impressive and very varied — instigator of the great exhibition of 1851, founder of the Royal Albert Hall, first directory of the V&A, reformer of the National Archives, campaigner for the Penny Black stamp, inventor of the Christmas Card, to name a few.

"We must have steam. Get Cole!" — Prince Albert

Known for his relentless energy, passion and zeal for improvement, Cole's crusade in improving arts and culture for the masses created institutes that are still thriving today.

Come along to Brompton Cemetery, his final resting place, and discover his fascinating story. Told by Alice MacDonnell, his great (x4) granddaughter — who has been piecing together his legacy to reinstate his rightful place in our history books.

Suggested donation £5. All donations will go to Sir Henry's grave restoration fund.

Book tickets.

Christmas Carol Concert with the Friends of Brompton Cemetery

Sunday 15th December, 1.00-3.30pm

For our annual FoBC Christmas concert, Oliver Lallemant, accompanied by accomplished soloists, will again lead us in carols and festive music. Mulled, spiced apple punch and mince pies will be served from 1.00pm. Concert starts at 1:30pm.

Priority given to FoBC members and volunteers. Space being limited in the Chapel, only two tickets per person. Please let us know if you cannot use any tickets booked as we invariably have a waiting list.

As always, this is a free concert where our local community can celebrate Christmas with the Friends of Brompton Cemetery and our amazing team of volunteers. Donations (cash or card) are welcome to support the wonderful work done by the Friends.

Reserve a spot.