Talks and Lectures
Catherine Beale has been giving talks and lectures to a wide variety of audiences for over a decade.
In 2003-4 she gave a sell-out season of lectures on various aspects of Hampton Court at the house itself.
She takes great care to tailor talks to the individual group being addressed, and understands the need to balance information with entertainment.
Catherine Beale outside the Hampton Court conservatory that she authenticated as a design by Sir Joseph Paxton
Photo by Barry Griffiths for the Leominster Journal
Catherine has lectured on:
- The Presteigne Tapestry (a pre-Reformation Flemish Tapestry – 500 years old and one of only two still hanging in churches in Britain today)
- Joseph Paxton and the Uncommon Greenhouse at Hampton Court
- The Supreme Sacrifice, an Autumn season event telling the story of the nation’s favourite hymn of Remembrance
- Champagne and Shambles: the lecture to accompany her book of the same name – emphasising different aspects for different groups – eg Johnny’s involvement with music (including Elgar), the agricultural labourers’ union, the gardens at Hampton Court, the fine art of Hampton Court, and Henry’s death on Mont Blanc.
She uses Powerpoint either on her own PC or she can bring a CD for insertion into your group’s laptop. Similarly, she can also bring a digital projector (which she has to hire – currently £20 payable by your group) or use yours. You need provide only a screen (not always necessary if you have a clean blank wall) and a glass of water.
She usually speaks for about 45 minutes and takes questions afterwards, but will happily comply with your requirements.
Groups addressed include:
Arts Festivals, History Societies, Harrow School, the Historical Association, County Historic Parks and Gardens groups, The Traditional Hereford Cattle Breeders Society, the Arkwright Society (Cromford), Museums and Arts groups, U3A, and regional groups of the National Trust.
Comments received:
‘Thank you so much for coming to speak to our group last night. It was an abolutely fantastic talk covering all and more, of the aspects we discussed on the ‘phone – and, I might say, pitched at precisely the right level for everyone to enjoy. Well done!’ Shropshire Parks & Gardens Trust
‘The talk was very successful, everyone enjoyed it and we have had letters since from people showing their appreciation. You are very good at bringing history alive.’ Hampton Court
‘Thank you very much for the fascinating talk to our members on Thursday. When I read your book I thought it good to have the decline of the country house explained in the context of one family and so it proved in your talk.’ Wyre Forest and District Centre of the National Trust
‘A sweeping and fast-paced lecture…[that] tweaked many listeners’ heartstrings. Ms Beale presented a thoroughly researched and unsentimental account of the decline of this and so many other families… This was an enjoyable and impressive lecture.’ Harrow School
"Lots of happy members. Thank you for such a full and fascinating lecture... A brilliant start to our year." Hereford and Worcester Gardens Trust
‘What a presentation you gave! Thank you so much.’ Leintwardine History Society
To enquire about a talk by Catherine Beale, please contact: emailcbeale@gmail.com