Eddie Redmayne OBE is a critically acclaimed actor best known for his roles in films such as ‘Les Miserables’, ‘The Danish Girl’, and ‘The Theory of Everything’, for which he won the Academy, BAFTA, Golden Globe and SAG Award for Best Actor.
The Cathedral’s Artist in Residence, Peter Walker, has been working closely with the star to bring Lichfield a unique exhibition which will take place from 4th-6th August, to commemorate the Battle of the Somme.
This commemoration will transform the inside of the Cathedral into a thought-provoking, emotive and poignant landscape, symbolising the journey taken by soldiers to the front, using the words of war poets, visual arts, light and sound.
Eddie visited the Cathedral earlier this week to record a selection of well-known war poetry, which will form part of the exhibition. Visitors will be able to visit the Cathedral during the commemoration to see this incredibly moving piece performed by the exceptionally talented actor.
Part of the exhibition will also involve stunning light projections by Peter Walker, and beautifully composed music by David Harper, who together collaborate under the name ‘Luxmuralis’.
Peter Walker says: “Eddie has created a series of four remarkably moving recitations of war poems for the installation this summer. He was very generous in donating his time, and his support of the Artist in Residence program has been wonderful. We hope everyone will come along and enjoy these recordings in August.”
Jason Dyer, Development Director at Lichfield Cathedral, adds: ’Within the Cathedral there are Books of Remembrance that record all those who sacrificed their lives from our region in the Great War. We hope this very special commemoration event for the Battle of the Somme will provide a poignant, respectful and moving way in which all visitors can remember those who lost their lives during this tragic time.”
More information about the Cathedral’s commemoration will be available soon.
