Tom Conti, Jeremy Robson, Lynne Hjelmgaard and Keren Abse Tony Curtis

Acclaimed actor Tom Conti, poets Jeremy Robson and Lynne Hjelmgaard, and Keren Abse join to discuss the work of poet Dannie Abse and to read from both his poetry and prose.

Abse, pictured below, was a dynamic and maverick presence on the contemporary poetry scene. His poetry and his prose are witty, colourful and profound, drawn from various rich sources including his Welsh background, his Jewish identity, and his experiences as a doctor. A strong narrative ability, a sharp eye for humour, and a deep humanity add to the potency of his writing. The event will include rare footage of Abse reading his work.

Conti is a theatre, film and television actor and winner of a Tony Award and a Laurence Olivier Award. Star of the iconic television series The Glittering Prizes and the film Shirley Valentine, his most recent film role was as Einstein in the critically acclaimed 2023 film Oppenheimer. Robson is a poet and publisher and a close friend of Abse for more than 50 years. Hjelmgaard is an American-born poet who was Abse’s partner in his later life. Keren Abse is Dannie Abse’s daughter. Discussions will be chaired by Professor Tony Curtis, who has written and lectured widely on Dannie Abse and is himself a poet.

Part of the festival’s programme of Jewish and Hebrew literature and culture supported by private donors and trusts.