Stories against the dark - RSA

Stories against the dark

Public talks / Video / Online

 -  | GMT Standard Time

RSA House and Online via YouTube

  • Arts and society
  • Environment

When the dark comes rising, who will hold it back? 

This December, BBC World Service launches a major new audio dramatisation of Susan Cooper’s classic family novel The Dark Is Rising. 

Commissioned by Simon Pitts for BBC World Service, co-produced by Complicité and Catherine Bailey Productions, and adapted by writer Robert Macfarlane and actor/director Simon McBurney, the story - set in the depths of winter - follows young Will Stanton on an epic quest to drive back the rising forces of darkness. 

In an extra special midwinter event at the RSA, Simon and Robert will discuss their collaboration in conversation with broadcaster Nikki Bedi.

Together, they’ll reflect on the work’s powerful and sharply resonant themes of elemental crisis, fate, free will, trial and resistance.  

What lessons does it hold for our age of conflict and climate emergency? And what is the purpose of storytelling when the dark times draw near? 

The Dark is Rising will be available as an immersive podcast best experienced on headphones. Available in 12 daily episodes on BBC World Service from 20th December, there’s a special early podcast preview on 19th December on BBC Sounds and other podcast platforms. The series will also be broadcast on Radio 4 from 26th December. Find out more: www.bbcworldservice.com/darkisrising 

**Please note this event will take place live at RSA House, and will be streamed online for global viewers. If you’re joining us in person, you are very welcome to stay on after the talk for complimentary festive refreshments!

Related events

  • Reimagining libraries: building community and connection for the future

    Fellowship events

    9am-10am PT / 12pm-1pm ET

    Join RSA US for an inspiring conversation moderated by Shamichael Hallman exploring the role of libraries in fostering meaningful connection

  • An introduction to RSA Circle

    Fellowship events

    Online via Zoom

    In a fast-paced and concise 30-minute induction, learn how to create your Circle profile and discover its most popular features.

  • Kirkcaldy meetup

    Fellowship events

    The Adam Smith Global Foundation, KY1 1HL

    Join RSA Fellows in Kirkcaldy for an informal catch up and a chance to network and build connections over coffee or a drink.