Only a small proportion of our events are listed here, as most of our performances are for private functions or for organisations such as history societies, WI groups, etc who market their own events. The only events listed here are those which we have organised ourselves, or which we have been specifically asked to promote. If you would be interested in Lesley Smith or Gareth Williams coming to your group, please contact bookings@lesleysmithhistorians.co.uk
The Real Good King Wenceslas at the Old Stables performed by Dr Nigel Oakley
Anyone familiar with Prague will have heard something of the old Kingdom of Bohemia – but how much do we really know about one of its most famous rulers?
The story of ‘Good King Wenceslas’ was based on a real man, although his life was rather more dramatic – and considerably more bloody – than the familiar Christmas carol might suggest. Who was Wenceslas, and did he deserve to be assassinated by his own brother? And was there really a page who accompanied him on errands of mercy?
New Lesley Smith Historians speaker Nigel Oakley, who has studied this fascinating period of European history, will explore the man behind the legend and more. Along the way, he will explore some of the international issues of the period – including the intriguing question of how Alfred the Great’s granddaughter fits into this Bohemian tale.
Join Nigel Oakley, author of Warrior Princess, Errant Page and its sequel, this December for a journey into the history behind one of our best-known Christmas stories.
