Here’s some first class news: Letters Live is coming back this winter.
If you’ve not come across the event before, it’s the theatrical realisation of the famous books Letters of Note (the bestselling anthology compiled by Shaun Usher) and To The Letter by Simon Garfield. A starry line-up of famous people – actors, writers, activists, and others – stand up on stage and recite famous letters from history’s notable luminaries, alongside touching correspondence from regular joes. It’s a great concept, executed brilliantly. And a new edition has just been announced for this November, with tickets going on sale on Thursday 3rd October at 9am.
It’ll be taking place at the magnificently restored KOKO music venue in Camden, whose gilded stage has been graced by everyone from Charlie Chaplin to Madonna in the past 124 years. And come 7th November, Benedict Cumberbatch and FKA Twigs will be able to add their names to that line-up, alongside a host of other starry names who will only be revealed on the night. Given that this is a fundraising gig in aid of the KOKO Foundation (which supports disadvantaged young people in Camden, as well as environmental projects), you can expect some major players to be involved… however that also brings the caveat that the ticket prices are equally astronomical, starting at £256 standing. If that’s within your budget, though, you can feel good knowing that your money’s going to a good place. And also, please send us a ticket.
As for what they’ll be reading, well, that’s also part of the mystery. But in previous years, the letters have included Virginia Woolf’s heart-breaking suicide note; the recipe for drop scones sent by the late Queen Elizabeth II to President Eisenhower; and Richard Burton’s parting words to Elizabeth Taylor at the end of their tempestuous marriage.
Yes, apparently they were suitable for reprint…
NOTE: The next edition of Letters Live takes place on 7th November 2024 at KOKO in Camden. Tickets start at £256 and will go on sale HERE on 3rd October at 9am.
Letters Live | KOKO, 1a Camden High St, London NW1 7RE
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