A celebration exploring the legacy of the great satirist Thomas Bernhard, on what would have been his 80th birthday. The weekend, devised by broadcaster and writer Piers Burton-Page, aims to present a crosssection in miniature of Bernhard’s work, with the emphasis on variety, humour and enjoyment. These two days will include a Bernhard play not seen in English, an almost silent film, readings from Bernhard’s poems and stories, talks, and the chance to discuss and debate.
Thomas Bernhard (1931–1988) was a prolific Austrian author whose legacy includes novels such as The Loser, Old Masters and Wittgenstein’s Nephew, plays such as The Force of Habit and Heldenplatz (staged in London last year), poetry, stories, essays, polemics, journalism, and Gathering Evidence, one of the most self-searching autobiographies ever written. Even now, unpublished work continues to receive posthumous publication – and provokes controversy.
Saturday 5 February, 2:30 - 6:30pm
Thomas Who?
The Man as seen in his Work
We begin with a biographical portrait of Thomas Bernhard then investigate, with a lighter touch, the curious matter of TB in GB. This first day of exploration into the mind and soul of Austria's famed satarist concludes with a reading of scenes from Bernhard's play The President, never before staged in the UK.
2:30 Welcome and Introduction
2:40 Who was Thomas Bernhard?
3:20 Q & A
3:35 Bernhard in Britain – Talk
4:10 Coffee Break – light refreshments will be served
5:00 The President – Rehearsed Reading
Sunday 6 February, 2 - 6pm
Bernhard's Blues
The Work and how it reflects its creator
We open with a rare showing of the film Der Italiener, a marvellous almost silent exploration of landscape and the enigma of death. This will be accompanied by a talk about Thomas Bernhard on stage and screen. The final act brings a round table discussion with invited Bernhard enthusiasts.
2:00 Welcome and Introduction
2:15 Der Italiener – Film Screening
3:30 Coffee Break – light refreshments will be served
4:00 Thomas Bernhard on screen and stage
4:30 Is it a Comedy? Is it a Tragedy? - Reading
4:45 Round Table / Open Forum
5:15 Launch of ITBG UK branch
5:25 Closing Remarks
5:30 Champagne Reception
