'Twas The Night Before Christmas with HRH the Prince of Wales and Special Guests

The classic holiday poem "'Twas The Night Before Christmas" was recorded this season in support of the Actors’ Benevolent Fund, of which The Prince of Wales has been Patron for over 20 years taking over the role from Her Majesty The Queen in 2000. The charity fund was started in 1882 by Henry Irving, one of the foremost actors of his generation and supports actors and stage managers who are unable to work due to illness, injury, or old age and those experiencing financial hardship particularly during the Coronavirus pandemic. This year has been particularly difficult for those working in the industry and in April the charity launched an Emergency Grant Fund to support those in their profession who are experiencing financial hardship owing to the pandemic.

Led by HRH Prince Charles, this group of actors give a lovely reading this Christmas Eve. But #1 for dedication and enthusiasm geos to the enchanting Joanna Lumley, aka Patsy Stone. And surprisingly, #2 goes to HRH the Prince of Wales who was committed to the narrative as well!

 

As an actor, I can attest that the industry has been flatlined. If you can, seek out a theatre near you and consider making a donation to support these hard-hit arts institutions so they are not gone from your community for good.