Polly Andrews, Learning Manager at Bath Abbey, introduces the highlights to a wonderful new exhibition celebrating Jane Austen’s 250th birthday
If you’re a Jane Austen fan – or even if you’re not (!) – there will soon be lots to enjoy at Bath Abbey as part of our celebration of her 250th birthday!
From 5th April to 27th September, there is an exciting programme of events around our new exhibition called Austens at the Abbey. The exhibition tells the life stories of doctors, musicians, actors and more who were buried in the Abbey and were also connected to the Austen family. You’ll find out that Jane’s mother wrote a poem praising a Dr Bowen who treated her when she was ill, and hear about the strict medical treatments of Dr Parry who is gently mocked in Jane’s letters to her sister Cassandra.
Everyone loves a spring bonnet and you can make your own (or an Admiral’s hat) at the first of our Special Family Fun Days on 5th April, followed by 2nd August and 20th September, which will all have Regency-themed craft activities for ages 4+.
There will also be special tours throughout the day and a chance to chat to larger-than-life historic characters from the Natural Theatre Company (5th April and 20th September), all included in admission or free with a local Discovery Card.
The Natural Theatre Company has a huge amount of experience in creating historic characters for the city of Bath and its visitors to enjoy. Freya Lawrence at the Naturals said, “We love bringing Regency characters to life and Family Fun Days at the Bath Abbey will be a fantastic opportunity to share the social circles which surrounded the Austens. Inspired by the real stories of those commemorated in the Abbey, we will blend historical research with theatrical creativity to create characters full of wit, charm and authenticity.”
For a truly VIP Austen experience, you are welcome to take an after-hours guided tour by a costumed guide, plus a glass of fizz (see www.bathabbey.org for dates and bookings). Other unique events include a film screening of Pride and Prejudice inside the Abbey on 13th September, and a Regency-themed Sunday service the following day.
The Abbey’s curator and archivist, Dr Cathryn Spence, has been on a journey of discovery to dig up connections to the Austen family. She has uncovered the portrait of a dashing young organist called Thomas Field who was the Director of Music who played at Abbey services during the period of time Jane lived in Bath. Perhaps they met one Sunday… who can say?!
Cathryn will share her ups, downs and even the dead ends of her research for the exhibition at two talks, with refreshments included, on 10th June and 16th September (book at www.bathabbey.org).
We look forward to welcoming you to ‘Austens at the Abbey’ this year!
