Anthony Howell – A Life in Poetry and Music: A Celebration in Cambridge

Riccardo Pes

Feb 62 min read

On February 15, 2025, the Downing Place United Reformed Church in Cambridge will come alive with an extraordinary celebration of poetry and music. Organized by tenor Alessandro Cortello, Anthony Howell – A Life in Poetry and Music will pay tribute to the immense artistic legacy of Anthony Howell, a poet, novelist, and performance artist whose influence spans decades.

Trailer with the music composed by Riccardo Pes

Anthony Howell, born in 1945, has lived a life dedicated to artistic exploration. Initially a dancer with the Royal Ballet, he soon found his voice in literature, publishing his first poetry collection Inside the Castle in 1969. His artistic vision expanded further when he founded The Theatre of Mistakes in 1974, a pioneering performance art collective that gained international recognition. Whether in poetry, performance, or literature, Howell’s work has continually pushed boundaries, merging art forms in unique and evocative ways.

This special concert will feature a blend of poetry readings and musical performances, with pieces by composers including Michael Nyman and Battista Pradal. Tenor Alessandro Cortello will be joined by pianist Ralph Woodward and myself to bring this immersive experience to life.

Reflecting on this event, Alessandro shared his excitement:"I cannot wait to work again with the great poet Anthony Howell on this concert with pianist Ralph Woodward and cellist Riccardo."

For those who have followed Howell’s career, this concert is an unmissable opportunity to experience the intersection of his poetic and musical worlds.

My own connection with Anthony Howell began in an intimate setting—an event at his house in Tottenham Hale, London. That evening, surrounded by artists and creatives, I had the privilege of engaging with his work firsthand. That encounter led to my involvement as a composer for the soundtrack of the movie Tottenham Tale, where Anthony was also an integral part of the project.

This event in Cambridge will be yet another testament to his incredible career, a heartfelt tribute to an artist whose impact continues to inspire.

📅 Date: Saturday, February 15, 2025📍

Venue: Downing Place United Reformed Church, Cambridge

⏰ Time: 7:30 PM

🎟 Tickets: