Penda’s Fen: 50th Anniversary + Q&A
EventAbout Penda’s Fen: 50th Anniversary + Q&A
I am nothing pure! My race is mixed. My sex is mixed. I am woman and man, light with darkness, nothing pure!
Fifty years ago on March 21st, a Play For Today was broadcast on BBC1 that is now often cited as one of the greatest pieces of British drama ever made. Commissioned by Birmingham studios Pebble Mill under the auspices of David Rose, this Worcestershire-set fable delves into England’s pagan past through the eyes of a clergyman’s young son (Spencer Banks).
Helmed with typical genius by director Alan Clarke in various Worcestershire locations, Penda’s Fen deconstructs nationhood, sexuality, religious faith and patriotism, as Banks’s thoughtful adolescent encounters an angel, the ghost of Elgar, a crucified Jesus and England's last pagan king. Lead actor Spencer Banks will be joining us for this 50th anniversary event, reminiscing after the screening about his experiences making one of the most unique British TV dramas ever to be seen on screen.
Booking info
To book Accessible tickets and free Companion tickets, please visit our Accessible Bookings page. Companion tickets will initially show a standard ticket price, but once your account is set-up and you are logged in, this will be reduced to £0 at checkout.
Duration includes trailers, adverts and any Q&A/panel. For events such as NT Live, Colour Box and Reel & Meal there will be minimal advertising. We do not admit latecomers after the main feature has started and we have a limited food & drink policy.
MAC’s cinema programme has been generously supported by BFI Film Audience Network and Film Hub Midlands.
