An Evening With Michael Attenborough CBE

Join us for an evening with patron of AAC, Michael Attenborough who will be helping us mark this milestone with a special event highlighting the Attenborough family’s long standing connection with the University.

The centre’s work is inspired by Michael’s father Lord Richard Attenborough, a world leading filmmaker, actor and lifelong patron of the arts. Richard Attenborough was an inspirational talent and pioneering thinker, our founding patron and a hands-on man who helped in establishing the arts centre, working tirelessly to raise millions of pounds in fundraising and donations. Handing the patronage to his son Michael, AAC continues to follow Richard’s vision and legacy in striving to include everyone in great art, culture and learning.

Once seated in the main hall, guests will have the opportunity to hear about Michael’s father Lord Attenborough and his uncle Sir David. What lies behind their joint achievements as ‘national treasures’?

Very different men, but very close brothers. One a screen star of over 100 movies including BRIGHTON ROCK, THE GREAT ESCAPE and JURASSIC PARK and director of over 20 films, including GANDHI (winner of eight Oscars) A BRIDGE TOO FAR, CRY FREEDOM and SHADOWLANDS. The other, his younger brother, perhaps the world’s best known and best loved broadcaster. The face and voice of the natural world across 60 years of outstanding programme making.

How much were they influenced by their father Frederick, the driving force, across 20 years, behind the creation of Leicester University?

And what part did these three extraordinary men play in Michael’s 50 year award-winning career as a theatre director?

There will be an opportunity for questions following the talk and then for informal chat over drinks and canapes in Attenborough Arts Centre.

Event Timings:

6.00pm Guest Arrival with Drinks in the Attenborough Arts Centre Café

7.00pm Presentation by Michael Attenborough CBE followed by Q&A

8.15pm Drinks and Canapés in the Attenborough Arts Centre Café

Michael is Patron of Attenborough Arts Centre and continues the family association through his support of the Centre. He is a passionate supporter of inclusion in the arts and the rights of the disabled. His long career in theatre includes Artistic Director of the Almeida Theatre, the Hampstead Theatre and Principal Associate Director of the RSC. Freelance work includes productions for the National Theatre, the Royal Court and Chichester; a number in the West End and twice on Broadway. He also teaches and trains at three universities and four drama schools, including RADA, where he is Director Emeritus.

Michael is the recipient of a University of Leicester Doctorate, and is now a Distinguished Honorary Fellow. His most recent formal visit to campus was on Remembrance Day 2018 when, together with his uncle, Sir David Attenborough, he helped to launch the University’s centenary celebration at the dedication of Centenary Square in the centre of campus.

Learn more about our Centenary here.

Learn more about Attenborough Arts Centre here.

Queries regarding this event can be sent to centenary@le.ac.uk