Kicking off with a preview evening hosted by Melvyn Bragg, this festival celebrates the 800th anniversary of both the Magna Carta and the host venue, St Mary's Church. It's thought that Archbishop Stephen Langton stopped off in Barnes to dedicate the church after the sealing of the Magna Carta by King John Runnymede in 1215. Exhibits include a display of Magna Carta embroidered panels created by Rhonda Nevis, 25 hand-painted baronial shields by local artists and a new set of church vestments made by Fine Cell Work, a charity that trains prisoners in skilled creative needlework. There will also be a series of talks, including Professor Nigel Saul on why the Magna Carat matters today (Friday May 22, 7pm) and an introduction to the ancient art behind church bell ringing on Sunday May 23, 3pm. Email info@stmarybarnes.org to attend the opening evening.
