Michael Morpurgo & FriendsAn 80th Birthday Celebration

Join Michael Morpurgo, one of the nation’s most beloved storytellers, as he celebrates his 80th birthday in aid of Farms for City Children, the charity he founded almost 50 years ago with his wife Clare. Hosted by broadcaster and friend Clare Balding, in this exclusive event Michael will share the stories, the inspirations behind his most beloved characters and the poignant themes that resonate through his narratives as well as the lessons learned in a 50-year long career in storytelling. Discover how a young boy seemingly uninterested in literature ended up becoming Children’s Laureate, writing over 150 books for children and adults including War Horse, The Butterfly Lion, Kensuke’s Kingdom and Private Peaceful, and so many more now classic tales that have touched the hearts of millions around the world. Expect an afternoon packed with insights, clips and readings from his most treasured works read by special guests including Jenny Agutter and Lemn Sissay, with more guests to be announced soon, as well as live music from War Horse Songman Ben Murray. This will be an occasion to ignite your imagination and leave you with a renewed appreciation for the power of storytelling.