Speechwriting: Creating Authenticity by Simon Lancaster @bespokespeeches

The image of the speechwriter in televised programmes (such as The Thick of It, The West Wing or Yes Minister) is assomething of a puppeteer, a sinister figure operating in the shadows, malevolently manipulating our political masters. Simon Lancaster believes that the successful speechwriter is less of a puppeteer and more of an impressionist. In his talk, he will share a number of stories and anecdotes from his time as speechwriter, setting out how he captures someone else’s authentic voice and what happens when it goes wrong.

No reservations are required for this lecture. It will be run on a ‘first come, first served’ basis. Doors will open 30 minutes before the start of the lecture.