Burning Issues

Southwark Cathedral hosts a theatrical evening that will illustrate the turbulent and thrilling background to the Book of Common Prayer.

When it was created in the 17th century, it was a time, like today, of rapid political and cultural change.

Out of this time came the 1662 Book of Common Prayer - the 350th anniversary of its publication is celebrated this year.

Throughout Lent the Cathedral has been bringing to light some of the issues which influenced religious thought at that time.

For the final session some of the leading voices of the day are being brought back to life in dramatic dialogue to be performed before a live audience.

“This play promises to deliver a hard hitting and entertaining account of the events surrounding this influential prayer book," says Canon Bruce Saunders.

Compiled by David Hanson, 'Burning Issues' will be presented as a rehearsed reading by actors Matthew Rutherford, Paul Critoph and Michael Wicherek.