WINTER 2026 SEASON - Announced Tue 13 Oct - Details here.

Britten: Peace and Conflict

Plus Tony Britten Q&A

109 MINS
Special Event

A drama-documentary that addresses the crucial influence of pacifism on composer Benjamin Britten's life and work.

We also screen an adaptation of Britten’s The Turn of the Screw by OperaGlass Works.

FROM 29 Nov

Date and Times

Sun 29 Nov
15:00
Auditorium
PLUS Q&A

In Detail

'Peace and Conflict' is a beautiful and touching evocation of Britten's schooling at Gresham's and the values there inculcated, which remained with him for life.

Rubbing shoulders with Donald Maclean and with the ghosts of the young Gresham's soldiers killed in the First World War swirling through the quads, the young Britten develops from a hesitant, watchful student into a steely young man.

It is a drama-documentary that addresses the crucial influence of pacifism on the composer's life and work.

Tony Britten's moving and thought-provoking film seamlessly blends dramatic scenes at Gresham's School with unique contributions from historians, friends and contemporaries and specially filmed musical performances from celebrated artists including James Gilchrist, Iain Burnside, Raphael Wallfisch and the exciting new Benyounes String Quartet.

Narrated by legendary actor John Hurt, who also appears on screen, this is described by Britten experts and film enthusiasts as a work of major significance. This is a moving and engrossing film, with terrific performances and tender appreciation of Britten's music.

We welcome the director Tony Britten for a Q&A after the screening.