The inaugural Barnsbury Book Festival brought together hundreds of residents and literary enthusiasts from across London for a weekend of discussions, performances, and community fundraising. Among the notable guest speakers were Islington residents Sir Grayson Perry and Rob Delaney, who captivated audiences with their insights and artistry.
Rob Delaney and Grayson Perry Shine
On Friday, BAFTA-winning comedian and actor Rob Delaney joined Kate Slotover for a reflective conversation about his life in comedy, acting, and art. The following day, Sir Grayson Perry—one of Britain’s most celebrated contemporary artists—delivered a speech titled “Illustrating art, society, culture and politics,” emphasizing the importance of creative craft. He also treated the audience to an exclusive preview of a new song, I Did It For Art, from his forthcoming show, Grayson Perry: The Musical.
Artist and Doctor Who actor Kezia Joseph also addressed attendees, dressed in a distinctive top hat, adding to the festival’s eclectic lineup.
Fundraising for St Andrew’s Church Spire
The festival raised funds for the restoration of the historic St Andrew’s Church spire, which dates back to 1854. The spire had been crumbling and in desperate need of repair, but it was saved thanks to £1 million in funding secured last month. Historic England allocated a significant grant in March to ensure the restoration could proceed. Donations from the Barnsbury Book Festival and the local community supplemented the grant, reaching the total needed to begin the works.
Community and Literary Heritage
Chris Smith, Lord of Finsbury and Chancellor of the University of Cambridge, praised the festival in his speech: “We have many literary associations in this part of London. Charles and Mary Lamb lived in Colebrooke Row. Tom Paine sat down to write the Rights of Man in the Old Red Lion at the Angel. Dickens used to give readings in what is now the school in Amwell Street. So the book festival as a means of ensuring we celebrate that literary history and raise funds for St Andrew’s Church is just a brilliant idea.”
Smith added: “I am proud to be the patron of the campaign to rescue and restore St Andrew’s Church. I lived in Thornhill Square some years ago, and St Andrew’s Church is the centrepiece of Thornhill Square. It is not just a place of worship but also a community centre, and it is frankly falling to pieces. It needs a lot of love, care, and restoration. There are some very dedicated people who have come together to ensure that can happen.”
Festival organizer Anna Logman said: “This is a fascinating neighbourhood, bristling with book lovers and writers, and what better way to bring people together than a book festival? I’ve always loved the book-ignited excitement and atmosphere of the Hay Festival, and having a slice of that in Barnsbury will be a dream come true.”
