Simon Russell Beale LitFest event moved to bigger venue

Marlborough LitFest 2024 is an annual event that draws in crowds of thousands from across the UK who come to see their favourite authors, actors and entertainers take to the stage in Wiltshire.

Held in the historic market town of Marlborough from Thursday, September 26 to Sunday, September 29, this year's LitFest will offer more than 40 events and author talks for all ages.

Sir Simon, who is patron of the whole festival,  was knighted by Queen Elizabeth in 2019 after having received two BAFTA Awards, three Olivier Awards and a Tony Award for his services to drama.

His previous performances with the Royal Shakespeare Company and the National Theatre have drawn in crowds.

Sir Simon Russell Beale has been hailed as one of the greatest actors of his generation (Image: Ben Phillips Photography)

The acclaimed actor was originally scheduled to take to the stage in Marlborough's Town Hall on Sunday, September 29 at 7.30pm, where he would be interviewed by Emma Smith, Professor of Shakespeare Studies at the University of Oxford.

Due to high demand, the event has now been moved to the Memorial Hall at Marlborough College and further tickets have been added.

The world-famous pair will discuss Beale's first book, 'A Piece of Work', which recounts his acting career so far, focussing on his Shakespearean roles.

Sir Simon Russell Beale opened the 2023 literature festival alongside local schoolchildren (Image: Newsquest)

The actor has frequently championed Marlborough, claiming it's "as close as I have got to a home town really," after his parents often moved house with the army before settling in Avebury, just outside the town.

Speaking previously to the Gazette and Herald, Sir Simon said: “I’ve watched from the outside as Marlborough LitFest has grown over the past 11 years into the vibrant event it is today.

"I’m very pleased to be involved with this gem of a local festival in the heart of Wiltshire, which attracts internationally renowned authors.”

Further tickets for the event have now been released and are available on the Marlborough LitFest website or from the White Horse Bookshop for £12.