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X-WR-CALDESC:Events for British Czech and Slovak Association
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DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251015T090000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260419T170000
DTSTAMP:20260411T221048
CREATED:20251014T160522Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251014T160522Z
UID:11721-1760518800-1776618000@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:Sparks of Freedom
DESCRIPTION:Sparks of Freedom (Paprsky svobody) — that is the name of a new exhibition at Brno’s Moravian Museum. It tells how British academics and intellectuals reached across the Iron Curtain to support Czech dissidents in the 1980s\, focusing on the work of the Jan Hus Educational Foundation and the quiet acts of courage that helped keep independent thought alive under communist rule. \nThe curators of the Department of the History of Culture with an Anti-Totalitarian Focus (LINK) present the story of solidarity between the British and Brno people. Its roots date back to 1980\, when an organization called the Jan Hus Educational Foundation was established in Oxford\, which systematically provided material and intellectual support to Czechoslovak dissidents. In Brno\, co-operation began in 1981; in December 1984 the first seminar was held\, and mutual cooperation lasted without interruption until the Velvet Revolution. In 1990\, the Czechoslovak Jan Hus Educational Foundation was established in Brno\, which continues its activities under the name of the Vzdělávací nadace Jana Husa to this day. \nThe focuses on Brno events over five years in the second half of the 1980s. It presents important areas in which the British provided material and intellectual assistance to the unofficial cultural world in Brno. Thanks to the Jan Hus Educational Foundation\, British academics were able to come and give lectures in private households during the normalization period. The British also helped in the sphere of samizdat\, video projections of banned or unavailable foreign films in Czechoslovakia\, and supported independent Brno artists in the field of music and visual arts. The exhibition and the catalogue present topics that have not yet been given the attention they deserve. They reveal not only the blank spots of Brno’s cultural history\, but also the strong bonds of British-Czech cooperation in the persistent search for freedom. \nFor the full story see How Oxford philosophers supported Czech dissidents — new Brno exhibition tells the story | Radio Prague International \nBishop’s Courtyard\, Marble Hall \nOpening hours  \nWednesday to Friday 9am -5pm \nSaturday 10am-5pm \nSunday 1-5pm \n  \nphoto: Vít Pohanka\, Radio Prague International \n 
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/sparks-of-freedom/
LOCATION:Moravian Museum\, Muzejní 1\, Brno\, 659 37\, Czech Republic
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Sparks-of-Freedom.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251101T000000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251130T233000
DTSTAMP:20260411T221048
CREATED:20251013T144921Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251013T144921Z
UID:11698-1761955200-1764545400@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:Czech Film Classics
DESCRIPTION:Watch for free as part of a free trial BFI Player Subscription. To access your special offer\, simply visit player.bfi.org.uk/subscribe. Enter the code MadeinPrague25 to claim an additional free month and discover the greatest global cinema on demand. This offer is only available to audiences in the UK.    \n\nRedeem the offer by 30 November 2025\nYou’ll need to enter your payment card details as your subscription will automatically renew at the end of the free trial period unless you cancel beforehand\n\n\nThe Riders of the Sky\nJindřich Polák\, Czechoslovakia 1968\, 95‘\, English subtitles\nCast: Jiří Bednář\, Jiří Hrzán\, Svatopluk Matyáš\, Elsie Randolph\, Joan Seton \nDrawing on Filip Jánský’s novel and the real-life experiences of Czech RAF gunners\, this gripping black-and-white war drama follows a multinational bomber crew—Czech\, Slovak\, English\, and Canadian—navigating the daily perils of air raids over Germany. When Czech gunner Student is gravely injured during an attack on Nuremberg\, the crew confronts the human cost of war. Featuring authentic aerial footage and a haunting score\, including Ghost Riders in the Sky\, the film is both a thrilling and deeply personal portrayal of wartime aviation. Banned after the 1968 Soviet invasion\, it remains a striking tribute to unsung RAF heroes. \nEcce Homo Homolka\nJaroslav Papoušek\, Czechoslovakia 1969\, 83‘\, English subtitles\nCast: Josef Šebánek\, Marie Motlová\, František Husák\, Helena Růžičková\, Petr a Matěj Formanovi  \nThe final gem of the Czechoslovak New Wave\, Jaroslav Papoušek’s comedy\, follows a single summer day with the Homolka family: grandparents\, their son Ludva\, daughter-in-law Heduš\, and twin grandchildren. What begins as a simple countryside outing descends into chaos\, exposing petty quarrels and the absurdities of everyday life in 1960s Czechoslovakia. Papoušek’s razor-sharp wit\, keen social observation\, and mastery of situational humour bring these unforgettable characters to life\, while the mischievous Forman twins add lively spontaneity. Brimming with iconic dialogue\, comedic brilliance\, and subtle satire\, the film remains a timeless portrait of family\, materialism\, and human folly. \nThe White Disease\nHugo Haas\, Czechoslovakia 1937\, 105´\, English subtitles\nCast: Hugo Haas\, Zdeněk Štěpánek\, Karla Olicová\, Václav Vydra Sr. \nBased on Karel Čapek’s visionary play\, White Disease (1937) tells of a mysterious plague sweeping the world\, sparing no one—rich or poor. Only one man\, Dr. Galén\, holds the cure— but he will release it only if the leaders renounce war. His ultimatum collides with a ruthless dictator preparing for invasion\,— a thinly veiled portrait of Hitler and Nazi Germany. Banned in Czechoslovakia after the 1938 Munich Agreement\, the film remains uncannily relevant today: a tense thought-provoking parable where deadly disease and the lust for power intertwine. A forgotten classic that resonates as urgently now as on the eve of World War II. \n\n  \nPart of 29th Made in Prague Festival / Czech Centre London \n 
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/czech-film-classics/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/riders-of-the-sky.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251104T193000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251121T220000
DTSTAMP:20260411T221048
CREATED:20250413T165321Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250413T165321Z
UID:11059-1762284600-1763762400@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:The Makropolus Case
DESCRIPTION:Composed between 1923 and 1925\, The Makropulos Case (or The Makropulos Affair) is characterised by its unique\, modernist musical style that aligns closely with the opera’s dark and philosophical themes. Janáček’s score employs short and repetitive motifs that mirror the psychological tension and emotional complexity of the opera’s characters. Marked by sharp contrasts\, rhythmic irregularities and unexpected harmonies\, the music creates a soundscape that feels both unsettling and captivating – a synthesis that defines the mysterious character of Emilia Marty. Janáček’s innovative use of speech melodies – melodic lines that mimic the natural inflections of spoken language – contribute to the opera’s intense realism\, making the emotions of each character feel vivid and immediate. Speech melody can be found in much of Janáček’s other operas\, including his earlier-composed Jenůfa. \n\n\n\n\nEmilia Marty\, a famous and mysterious opera singer\, has lived for over 300 years thanks to an elixir of immortality. But when she becomes entangled in a battle to obtain a crucial document that will help her renew the life-extending formula\, she begins to grapple with the emptiness and isolation her centuries-long existence has brought her. \nIn its first-ever staging with The Royal Opera\, Janáček’s haunting and enigmatic masterpiece is reimagined through a contemporary lens by Katie Mitchell\, who explores what it means to love\, and at what cost. Ausrine Stundyte makes a welcome return to the house to sing the mysterious Emilia Marty\, whose immortality is both a gift and a curse. Music Director of The Royal Opera Jakub Hrůša conducts. \ngeneral booking opens 2 July 2025
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/the-makropolus-case/
LOCATION:Royal Opera House
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/makropolus.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251109T173000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251109T200000
DTSTAMP:20260411T221048
CREATED:20251013T150710Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251014T102609Z
UID:11702-1762709400-1762718400@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:Vlny/Waves film screening
DESCRIPTION:The screening of Vlny/Waves will be followed by a Q&A with director Jiří Mádl. \nA broadcast that will change history. Gripping and never-before-published stories by the journalists of Czechoslovak Radio. \n\nPrague\, 1968. Tomáš\, a young technician caring for his rebellious younger brother\, joins the international newsroom of Czechoslovak Radio\, unaware the Secret Service is watching every move. As political tension escalates and Soviet tanks surround the radio building\, Tomáš faces a choice: stand with the defiant journalists or save his brother. Inspired by the untold true story of journalists who risked everything to deliver independent news and keep their broadcasts alive during the 1968 Soviet invasion\, this gripping political thriller blends dynamic cinematography\, compelling performances\, and a masterful mix of archival footage and fiction to capture the intense drama and courage of those fighting for free speech in a city under siege. \nJiří Mádl\, Czech Republic\, Slovakia 2024\, 126’\nCast: Vojtěch Vodochodský\, Tatiana Pauhofová\, Stanislav Majer\, Vojtěch Kotek\, Martin Hoffmann \n  \nBOOKING LINK COMING SOON \nPart of 29th Made in Prague Festival / Czech Centre London \n\n 
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/vlny-waves-film-screening/
LOCATION:BFI IMAX\, 1 Charlie Chaplin Walk\, Lond
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/vlny.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251113T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251113T210000
DTSTAMP:20260411T221048
CREATED:20251013T152616Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251014T102114Z
UID:11712-1763060400-1763067600@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:Semafor: Pop Culture in Prague’s 1960s
DESCRIPTION:Bursting into the 1960s with wit\, charm\, and a rebellious spirit\, Prague’s Semafor Theatre became a beacon of creativity behind the Iron Curtain. The unforgettable duo of Jiří Suchý and Jiří Šlitr brought Czechoslovakia its first wave of modern pop\, offbeat humour\, and a form of rebellion that spoke a language different from that of official power and the media. Their songs became the soundtrack of a generation and a symbol of cultural resistance. \n In this special event\, music historian and author of Suchý & Šlitr\, Semafor 1959–1969\, Pavel Klusák\, and Jiří Šlitr’s daughter\, Dominika Křesťanová\, share stories\, rare insights\, and the cultural legacy of a duo who defined an era\, and the rebellion that stole a language for its own game. \n\nThis event also marks the recent release of Pavel Klusák’s book Suchý a Šlitr: Semafor 1959–1969 (Host\, 2024\, 456 pages\, ISBN 978-80-275-1813-5)\, which explores the rise of Semafor and its cultural impact during a decade of change. The book\, awarded the Egon Erwin Kisch Prize for non-fiction\, offers a vivid portrait of the duo’s creative world and their lasting influence on Czechoslovak popular culture. \nAdmission: £7 (+ Eventbrite fee) see booking link below  \nPart of 29th Made in Prague Festival / Czech Centre London \n 
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/semafor-pop-culture-in-pragues-1960s/
LOCATION:Czech Embassy cinema\, 26 Kensington Palace Gardens\, London\, W8 4QY
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/semafor.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251117T180000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251117T200000
DTSTAMP:20260411T221048
CREATED:20251030T114711Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251030T121007Z
UID:11783-1763402400-1763409600@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:Journey to Freedom: International Students' Day
DESCRIPTION:Come join us for a special event to commemorate International Students’ Day and the November 1989 Velvet Revolution. This day marks an important moment in history when students played a crucial role in the fight for freedom and democracy. Let’s celebrate this special day together! \nThe evening will feature: \nA panel discussion “Generation of freedom: what did November 89 give us?” with contributions from H.E. Peter Susko\, Ambassador of the Slovak Republic to the United Kingdom\, and representatives of the young Slovak diaspora in the UK – Simona Vrabcová\, Karin Popovičová\, Gabriel Lovás and Peter Mikitič. \nThe programme will also include the launch of the book Student Odyssey and signing by its author\, Jozef Leikert. \nYou can look forward to musical performance by saxophonist Alžběta Greenwood-Byrne. \nThe evening will be moderated by Jana Nahodilová (BCSA chair). \n\nRefreshments will be provided following the event. \n\nThe event is free\, but booking is essential via link below.\n\nDress code: smart casual\n\nDoors open: 5:40pm\n 
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/journey-to-freedom-international-students-day/
LOCATION:Slovak Embassy\, 25 Kensington Palace Gardens\, London\, W8 4QY\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:BCSA Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/international-students-day-banner-design-free-vector.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251118T183000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251118T203000
DTSTAMP:20260411T221048
CREATED:20250726T125242Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250726T125242Z
UID:11474-1763490600-1763497800@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:British Museum and the Czechoslovak National Gallery in the1980s
DESCRIPTION:Between 1983 and 1987\, as part of a cultural agreement between the UK and Czechoslovakia\, the speaker\, then a very junior member of the British Museum staff\, was instructed to organise a joint exhibition of the work of Václav/Wenceslaus Hollar to be shown in London and Prague. This led into other collaborations; the talk will give his memories of these exhibitions\, which were often bizarre but always a great pleasure. \nAntony Griffiths\, art historian\, is the former Keeper of the Department of Prints and Drawings\, British Museum\, and Slade Professor of Fine Art at University of Oxford. \nPrice £15 including a glass of wine see Eventbrite booking link below\nTo pay at the door please notify us: events@czechfriends.net \nEVENT ORGANISED WITH THE COOPERATION OF THE EMBASSY OF THE CZECH REPUBLIC\nAll proceeds raised go towards the care and conservation of Czech heritage
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/british-museum-and-the-czechoslovak-national-gallery-in-the1980s/
LOCATION:Czech Embassy cinema\, 26 Kensington Palace Gardens\, London\, W8 4QY
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Friends-BM-lecture.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Friends of Czech Heritage":MAILTO:info@czechfriends.net
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251121T183000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251121T230000
DTSTAMP:20260411T221048
CREATED:20250925T150421Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251103T221442Z
UID:11625-1763749800-1763766000@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:BCSA/CBCC annual dinner
DESCRIPTION:Our annual dinner will once again be held with the Czech British Chamber of Commerce (CBCC) this year at a new venue – the DoubleTree by Hilton London – Tower of London. If you are a newcomer to the BCSA or to London\, we would like to extend a special invitation and welcome you into our friendly community. Kindly note that you may request seating at a table with your friends. \nThis is a wonderful opportunity for Slovaks\, Czechs and Britons to mingle in a convivial atmosphere\, to meet old friends and make new ones. Members and non-members alike will enjoy networking before and after dinner with business executives and members of the diplomatic community. Guests of  honour include Peter Susko\, the Slovak Ambassador and Václav Bartuška\, the Czech Ambassador. There will be a three-course buffet with wine\,  the results of the BCSA annual writing competition and speeches. You’ll also able to win a wonderful prize in a raffle or purchase a valuable object in an auction.  \nKeynote speakers: \nTomáš Čermák is a 19-year-old student and researcher who\, together with Anna Podmanická from Slovakia\, developed a unique water filtration device called PURA\, which was crowned the Global Winner of The Earth Prize 2025. Tomáš is a co-founder of STEM_HUB\, a student-led organisation connecting passionate Czech students . He was nominated as WIRED’s Game Changer of 2025 for promoting science among young people\, and received an APLAUS award from the Czech National Institute for Autism for raising awareness about autism. Tomáš has just moved to London to study Biomedical Engineering at Imperial College. \nIna Jovicic\, founder and CEO eNOugh  \neNOugh is building the world’s first mini AI bodyguard for everyday safety and has raised $2.6 million from top Silicon Valley investors. Ina was born and raised in Prague and left for the UK to study at UCL. She is a Sigma Squared Fellow and has received an award for Young Entrepreneur of the Year 2025. \n  \nRaffle prizes include the following donated by Ensana Health Spa Hotels \nThree-night stay with half board and two treatments for two people in Nové Lázně\, Mariánské Lázně\, Czech Republic \nThree-night stay with half board for two people in Thermia Palace\, Piešt’any\, Slovakia \nThree-night stay with breakfast for two people in one of nine Danubius hotels in Budapest\, Hungary \n  \n SOLD OUT!\n  \nBCSA and CBCC Members: £84 per person \nNon-Members: £95 per person \nNon-Members group (5 or more) £85 per person  \nStudents £76.50 per person \n  \nThe dinner includes a glass of sparkling wine upon arrival\, a three-course buffet menu\, carafe of white or red wine\, sparkling/still water\, tea or coffee. \nMenu: \nSTARTERS \nRoast pepper pasta salad \nMandarin\, pomegranate\, spinach and goat cheese salad \nFig roquette parmesan balsamic \nMixed salad leaves \nMAINS \nRoast turkey with cranberry gravy \nStuffing\, pigs in blanket \nRosemary roast potatoes (V) \nMaple glazed sprouts with herb crust (V) \nHoney roasted carrot and parsnips (V can be made vegan) \nGnocchi with tarragon and wild mushroom ragu (vegan) \nDESSERTS \nChristmas pudding\, brandy sauce (V) \nFruit salad (vegan) \nMince pies with tea or coffee \n  \nDress code: Lounge suit \nFor more information contact us via bcsa@bcsa.co.uk \n 
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/bcsa-cbcc-annual-dinner-4/
LOCATION:DoubleTree by Hilton London- Tower of London\, 7 Pepys Street\, London\, EC3N 4AF\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:BCSA Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/dinner-2022.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251129T193000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251129T213000
DTSTAMP:20260411T221048
CREATED:20250424T115024Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250424T115024Z
UID:11113-1764444600-1764451800@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:Steven Isserlis
DESCRIPTION:Bohemia and Moravia\, historic regions of the Czech Republic\, cultivated a rich tradition of cello playing. Steven Isserlis and Connie Shih trace its development from the music of cellist-composer Jan Stiastny (c.1764 – c.1830)\, ‘the Beethoven of the violoncello’\, to striking works by Janáček and Martinů\, the latter written in exile following the Nazi annexation of its composer’s homeland. \nBernard Stiastny   Theme and Variations \nAntonín Dvořák   4 Romantic Pieces Op. 75   (arranged by Steven Isserlis) \nIgnaz Moscheles   Cello Sonata in E Op. 121 \nJosef Suk    Ballade in D minor Op. 3 No. 1\, Serenade in A Op. 3 No. 2 \nLeoš Janáček   Pohádka \nBohuslav Martinů   Cello Sonata No. 1
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/steven-isserlis/
LOCATION:Wigmore Hall\, 36 Wigmore Street\, London\, W1U 2BP\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Isserlis-1.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260113T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260115T210000
DTSTAMP:20260411T221048
CREATED:20250420T163320Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250420T163320Z
UID:11099-1768330800-1768510800@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:Janáček's The Makropulos Affair
DESCRIPTION:A 300-year-old woman confronts mortality\, identity and lost love in this concert performance of Janáček’s intense operatic drama. \n\n\n\n\nThe Makropoulos Affair contains some of Janáček’s most compelling music\, starting with its Prelude that hints at the 16th-century birth year of Emilia Marty\, complete with pounding timpani and fanfares. From there\, Janáček spins a taut drama culminating in a heartbreaking scene as Emilia finally confesses to her identity. \nThis is the fourth Janáček opera performed by Sir Simon Rattle and the London Symphony Orchestra. This year’s cast is as exceptional as ever\, with soprano Marlis Petersen as the emotionally complex Emilia\, and tenor Aleš Briscein – a veteran of Janáček’s distinctive musical style – as Albert Gregor\, the young lawyer enamoured with Emilia. \n  \nTuesday 13 & Thursday 15 January\, 7-9.05pm\, no interval
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/janaceks-the-makropulos-affair/
LOCATION:Barbican Centre\, Silk Street\, London\, EC2Y 8DS\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Rattle-LSO.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260131T193000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260208T213000
DTSTAMP:20260411T221048
CREATED:20251202T184724Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251202T192759Z
UID:11891-1769887800-1770586200@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:Brundibár Arts Festival
DESCRIPTION:Brundibár Arts Festival was launched in January 2016 as the first annual Festival in the UK dedicated to the Music and Arts of the Holocaust. Located in Newcastle and Gateshead\, the Festival takes its name from Hans Krása’s children’s opera “Brundibár” (meaning bumblebee)\, which was first performed publicly by the children of Theresienstadt concentration camp in 1943. Brundibár Arts Festival seeks to find new ways to positively document the astonishing achievements of artists under adversity\, and to keep their stories alive through music and the arts. \nSaturday 31 January 19.30 – 21.30 \nSt James’s United Reformed Church\, Northumberland Road\, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 8JF \nhttps://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/brundibar-arts-festival-opening-concert-tickets-1851187765439 \nMonday 2 February 18.30 – 19.30 \nLiterary & Philosophical Society\, 23 Westgate Road\, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 1SE \nhttps://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/short-concert-series-concert-1-tickets-1909713176519 \nTuesday 3 February 13.000 -14.00 \nLiterary & Philosophical Society\, 23 Westgate Road\, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 1SE \nhttps://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/short-concert-series-concert-2-tickets-1909770397669 \nTuesday 3 February 18.30-19.30 \nBrunswick Methodist Church\, Brunswick Place\, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7BJ \nhttps://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/short-concerts-series-concert-three-tickets-1851730007299 \nWednesday 4 February 19.00-21.00 \nTyneside Cinema\,  New House\, 10 Pilgrim Street\, Newcastle upon Tyne\, NE1 6QG \nThe Last Musician of Auschwitz + Q&A \n \nThursday 5 February 19.30-21.30 \nSt James’s United Reformed Church\, Northumberland Road\, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 8JF \nhttps://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/a-voice-not-stilled-tickets-1918303540529 \nSaturday 7 February 13.000 -14.00 \nAll Saints’ Church\, West Avenue\, Gosforth NE3 4ES \nhttps://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/short-concert-series-concert-four-tickets-1936793915739 \nSaturday 7 February 18.30 -19.30 \nAll Saints’ Church\, West Avenue\, Gosforth NE3 4ES \nhttps://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/short-concert-series-concert-five-tickets-1943906258949 \nSunday 8 February 19.30-21.30 \nNewcastle University Kings Hall\, Armstrong Building\,  Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 8QB \nhttps://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/brundibar-arts-festival-2026-closing-concert-tickets-1948643488129 \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n 
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/brundibar-arts-festival/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Brundibar.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260210T183000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260210T203000
DTSTAMP:20260411T221048
CREATED:20260120T214618Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260120T214618Z
UID:12018-1770748200-1770755400@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:A mysterious people: Czech and Slovak Roma
DESCRIPTION:After outlining her own long experience of English Romany Gypsies\, Dr. Brearley will discuss the origins and language of the Roma people\, their arrival in Europe and subsequent persecution\, and their specific history in Czech and Slovak lands until today. \nSome unique features of Romani culture\, traditions and law will be explored and the sources of anti-Gypsy stereotypes examined. Dr. Brearley’s talk will aim to entertain\, inform\, and increase awareness of the complex difficulties faced by Roma\, past and present\, including during WWII. \nDr Margaret Brearley (MA. Oxon.\, Ph.D. Cantab.) has lectured on Judaism and Jewish-Christian Relations at the Selly Oak Colleges\, and widely in Britain\, Israel\, USA and Europe. A Wroxton Holocaust Scholar\, she has also been a consultant to several films and TV documentaries\, and published many academic articles and book chapters\, especially on anti- Judaism\, the Holocaust\, Richard Wagner\, genocide and Roma/Gypsies. \nLight refreshments will be served afterwards. \nThis event will take place in person and will also be recorded. Organised in co-operation with the Czech Embassy London \nBCSA members enjoy free entry but registration is essential. \nNon-members £10\, full-time students £5 see booking link below. \nEventbrite fees will be added to the cost of your tickets at checkout. \nAll proceeds from this event will go to the BCSA School Support Fund established in 2004 to provide support for English language skills in Czech and Slovak schools and other educational institutions. More information about our fund\, see https://www.bcsa.co.uk/school-support-fund/
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/a-mysterious-people-czech-and-slovak-roma/
LOCATION:Czech Embassy cinema\, 26 Kensington Palace Gardens\, London\, W8 4QY
CATEGORIES:BCSA Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Roma-flag.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260301T193000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260301T213000
DTSTAMP:20260411T221048
CREATED:20251105T124936Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251105T124936Z
UID:11811-1772393400-1772400600@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:Pavel Haas Quartet
DESCRIPTION:The renowned Pavel Haas Quartet returns to Wigmore Hall with a programme of Czech masterworks. Suk’s heartfelt Meditation and Janáček’s impassioned ‘Intimate Letters’ precede Dvořák’s radiant Op. 97 String Quintet\, created during the composer’s summer stay in Spillville\, Iowa in 1893 and distinguished by its beguiling blend of Bohemian folk flavours and themes imbued with ideas absorbed from Native American and African-American music. \nProgramme \nJosef Suk                   Meditation on an old Bohemian Chorale (St Wenceslas) Op. 35a \nLeoš Janáček            String Quartet No. 2 ‘Intimate Letters’ \nAntonín Dvořák         String Quintet in E flat Op. 97 \n\n\nVeronika Jarůšková violin\n\n\nMarek Zwiebel violin\nŠimon Truszka viola\nPeter Jarůšek cello\nDana Zemtsov viola\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n 
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/pavel-haas-quartet-10/
LOCATION:Wigmore Hall\, 36 Wigmore Street\, London\, W1U 2BP\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/pavel-haas-quartet.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260319T180000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260319T184500
DTSTAMP:20260411T221048
CREATED:20260212T125834Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260318T103941Z
UID:12111-1773943200-1773945900@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:BCSA Annual General Meeting
DESCRIPTION:The formal AGM of the Association\, which is open to all members\, will be held at 6pm on Thursday 19th March 2026. \nThe agenda will include the presentation of the Chairman’s report\, the Financial report for 2025 by the Treasurer and the election of the Executive Committee. Copies of the independently examined Accounts 2025 and the Minutes of the AGM held on 19th March 2025 will be available at the meeting\, together with the Treasurer’s report. \nThe AGM will elect the four Honorary Officers of the Association – the Chair\, Vice-Chair\, Honorary Secretary and Honorary Treasurer. These posts are held for one year and are subject to election at every AGM. The current Chair\, Jana Nahodilova\, as well as the remaining Honorary Officers\, namely Ruzena Holub\, Blanka Shrimpton and Ivona Klemensova respectively\, are willing to stand for re-election. \nOf the members of the Executive Committee\, who are elected for a term of three years\, Angela Spindler-Brown and Edward Peacock are standing for re-election this year and Barbora Paziam stands for election as a full member of the Committee. \nAny member of the BCSA can be nominated for the post of an Honorary Officer and/or a Committee member. Nomination forms can be obtained from the Honorary Secretary\, Blanka Shrimpton\, e-mail: secretary@bcsa.co.uk and returned to her by 12th March 2026. \nPlease register your attendance at the AGM to secretary@bcsa.co.uk\, apologies for absence to be sent to the same e-mail address. \nThe AGM will be also live streamed via Zoom\, the respective link will be made available to members after registration.  \nRefreshments will be available after the talk that follows the formal part of the evening.
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/bcsa-annual-general-meeting-2/
LOCATION:Czech Embassy cinema\, 26 Kensington Palace Gardens\, London\, W8 4QY
CATEGORIES:BCSA Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/20150716-BCSA-Logo.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260319T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260319T203000
DTSTAMP:20260411T221048
CREATED:20260124T101712Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260318T104025Z
UID:12043-1773946800-1773952200@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:The spy whom we love
DESCRIPTION:Drawing on his recent book The Bondian Cold War: The Transnational Legacy of a Cultural Icon (Routledge\, 2024)\, Dr.Brown will explore James Bond as a cultural figure of the Cold War. The talk will examine how Bond’s stories reflected—and sometimes reshaped—the politics\, tensions\, and popular culture of the era\, and how the spy became a global\, transnational icon across novels\, films\, comics\, and video games. \nAbout the speaker\nDr. Martin Brown is Professor of International History at Richmond American University London\, a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society\, a member of Chatham House and the New Diplomatic History Network. From 2018–2019\, he was lead researcher at the Centre of Excellence in Intercultural Studies at the University of Tallinn. His research interests include Central European history\, Czechoslovak–British relations\, and Cold War culture. \nLight refreshments will be served afterwards. \nThe event will take place in person and will also be recorded. Organised in co-operation with the Czech Embassy London \nTickets:\n• BCSA members: Free (registration required)\n• Non-members: £10\n• Full-time students: £5\n(Eventbrite fees apply) \nAll proceeds from this event will go to the BCSA School Support Fund  supporting English language education in Czech and Slovak schools.
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/the-spy-whom-we-love/
LOCATION:Czech Embassy cinema\, 26 Kensington Palace Gardens\, London\, W8 4QY
CATEGORIES:BCSA Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Bond-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260326T180000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260326T190000
DTSTAMP:20260411T221048
CREATED:20250420T164128Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250420T164545Z
UID:11101-1774548000-1774551600@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:Dvořák Symphony No 9 
DESCRIPTION:  Dvořák’s Symphony No 9 From the New World introduced by the performers\, with screens in the hall to bring you closer to the action. Kick-start your evening with a 60-minute Half Six Fix concert with the London Symphony Orchestra.  \n\n\n\n\nWritten during his years as director of America’s National Conservatory of Music in the 1890s\, Dvořák’s homage to the US draws on spirituals and Native American inspiration\, but with the folk music of his Czech homeland never far away. Rhythmically exciting and richly melodic\, the third movement features one of classical music’s most enduring and endearing tunes. \nPresenting and conducting tonight’s concert is Anja Bihlmaier\, a German conductor who for the past few years has been making waves on the UK orchestral and operatic scene.
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/dvorak-symphony-no-9/
LOCATION:Barbican Centre\, Silk Street\, London\, EC2Y 8DS\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/LSO.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260410T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260612T170000
DTSTAMP:20260411T221048
CREATED:20260328T163500Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260328T163624Z
UID:12291-1775815200-1781283600@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:Baťa's Architecture of Belonging
DESCRIPTION:The Czech Centre London\, in collaboration with the Tomáš Baťa Foundation and the Bata Heritage Centre\, marks the 150th anniversary of Czech entrepreneur Tomáš Baťa’s birth\, founder of the global Baťa Shoe Company\, with an exhibition exploring his achievements and guiding principles and their realisation in East Tilbury. It reveals how ideas about work\, culture\, sport\, health and community were embedded in the design of the built environment. \n\nThe exhibition unfolds in two complementary strands. Desire to Create presents Baťa’s legacy as a comprehensive philosophy\, uniting work with service\, enterprise with education\, and personal development with responsibility towards others – not as a relic of the past\, but as a continuing source of inspiration. Baťa’s Architecture of Belonging brings East Tilbury to life through architectural drawings\, historic photographs and original artefacts\, evoking its distinctive modernist atmosphere. Together\, they trace how ideas were translated into built form – from vision to planning\, from planning to everyday life – creating a cohesive narrative of belonging\, work and community. \nOrganised by the Czech Centre London in partnership with the Bata Heritage Centre. \nOpening hours: Tues – Fri 10am – 5pm\, free entry
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/batas-architecture-of-belonging/
LOCATION:Vitrinka Gallery\, 30 Kensington Palace Gardens\, London\, W8 4QY\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Bata-Oxford-St.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260414T180000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260414T200000
DTSTAMP:20260411T221048
CREATED:20260312T175714Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260318T104140Z
UID:12172-1776189600-1776196800@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:Marina Pauliny: diplomacy\, humanitarianism and women's leadership
DESCRIPTION: An exhibition and panel discussion honouring Marina Pauliny\, an extraordinary woman who connected nations in times of war and exile. \n\n\n\n\nWe are delighted to invite you to the opening of the exhibition and accompanying panel discussion honouring the life and legacy of Marina Pauliny\, an extraordinary woman who connected nations in times of war and exile. This event is organised and hosted by the Embassy of the Slovak Republic in London in collaboration with the Slovak National Museum\, Memorial Association for Free Czechoslovak Veterans (MAFCSV)\, British Red Cross and the British Czech and Slovak Association (BCSA). \nThe evening will feature a panel discussion moderated by Jana Nahodilová – chair of the British Czech and Slovak Association. with distinguished speakers: \n\nZuzana Francová – niece of Marina Pauliny and curator at the Museum of Bratislava\n\n\nGerry Manolas – chair of the Memorial Association for Free Czechoslovak Veterans\n\n\nPeter Barta – director of the Slovak National Museum in Bratislava\n\n\nMehzebin Adam-Suter – curator of the British Red Cross Museum and Archives\n\n\nIt will be followed by the opening of an exhibition from the Slovak National Museum. \nThis event is free\, but registration required see booking link below.
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/marina-pauliny-diplomacy-humanitarianism/
LOCATION:Slovak Embassy\, 25 Kensington Palace Gardens\, London\, W8 4QY\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:BCSA Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Marina-Pauliny-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260421T193000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260421T213000
DTSTAMP:20260411T221048
CREATED:20251230T121109Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260318T104629Z
UID:11971-1776799800-1776807000@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:Magdalena Kožená in recital
DESCRIPTION:Laments\, confessions of undying love and the guilt-tinged miniatures of Brett Dean’s Gertrude Fragments take their place alongside lute works ancient and modern in this unmissable programme from Magdalena Kožená and Daniele Caminiti. Their recital’s individual parts combine to tell stories about the deepest human emotions\, from abandonment and grief to the wild verbal gestures\, ticks and obsessive delights of Berio’s Sequenza III for solo female voice. \n\nMagdalena Kožená     mezzo-soprano\n\n\n\nDaniele Caminiti      lute\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGeneral sale for this concert will open at 10.00am on Tuesday 27 January 2026. \n 
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/magalena-kozena-in-recital/
LOCATION:Wigmore Hall\, 36 Wigmore Street\, London\, W1U 2BP\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Kozena.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260513T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260513T220000
DTSTAMP:20260411T221048
CREATED:20240323T154759Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260409T121233Z
UID:9539-1778698800-1778709600@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:“Get to know you” social evening
DESCRIPTION:This is an opportunity for anyone interested in the British Czech and Slovak Association (members\, supporters and friends) to meet\, eat\, drink\, chat (maybe practise your Czech or Slovak) and get to know each other in a relaxed and informal setting. \nEveryone interested in Czech and/or Slovak matters is most welcome to join us. \nWe will be in one of the rooms at Bohemia House\, normally the first room on the left. \nFood and drinks are available for purchase. \nWest Hampstead has three stations served by the Jubilee line\, Overground and Thameslink.
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/get-to-know-you-social-evening-5/
LOCATION:Bohemia House\, 74 West End Lane\, London\, NW6 2LX\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:BCSA Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monthly-social.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260517T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260517T163000
DTSTAMP:20260411T221048
CREATED:20260328T165302Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260328T165302Z
UID:12298-1779030000-1779035400@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:Jáchym Topol
DESCRIPTION:The European Writers’ Festival returns this May\, bringing together leading and emerging writers from 26 countries for a weekend of discussions on literature\, translation and the challenges shaping Europe today. \nAmong the featured authors is Jáchym Topol\, one of the most distinctive voices in contemporary Czech literature. Emerging from the underground cultural scene of 1980s Czechoslovakia\, Topol has built an acclaimed career as a novelist\, poet and journalist. His works – including City Sister Silver\, The Devil’s Workshop and A Sensitive Man\, as well as his latest novel Hell Does Not Exist (Peklo neexistuje) – blend myth\, history and dark humour to explore the complexities of Central and Eastern Europe. He is a recipient of the Czech State Prize for Literature and works at the Václav Havel Library in Prague. \nTopol will appear on the panel “Stranger Things” (Sunday 17 May\, 15.00–16.15)\, alongside Anne-Marie Reuter and Sara Stridsberg. The discussion brings together three established writers known for bold\, unconventional storytelling\, exploring the boundaries between reality\, fiction and imagination. \nOrganised by EUNIC London in partnership with the British Library and the European Literature Network\, the festival offers a unique opportunity to experience the richness of contemporary European writing. \nTickets available for in person or online attendance see link below
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/jachym-topol/
LOCATION:British Library\, 96 Euston Road\, London\, NW1 2DB\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Topol.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260611T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260611T210000
DTSTAMP:20260411T221048
CREATED:20260328T170328Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260328T170328Z
UID:12306-1781204400-1781211600@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:Baťa: designed to belong
DESCRIPTION:Belonging is not accidental – it is designed. This panel explores how architecture shapes belonging – not just by providing shelter\, but by designing everyday life. \nUsing the Bata village at East Tilbury as a starting point\, it examines how modernist ideals\, industrial ambition and community planning combined to create a distinctive model of living. Historian Milan Balaban situates the settlement within the global story of Bata cities\, while architectural historian Gillian Darley reflects on its place in British modernism. Chaired by John Tusa\, the conversation links historical experiments in planned community to today’s questions of development\, identity and place-making. \nSPEAKERS:\nSir John Tusa is a British arts administrator\, author\, journalist and former presenter of the BBC’s Newsnight. Born in Czechoslovakia\, he moved to East Tilbury in 1939\, where his father was Managing Director of the British Bata Shoe Company factory. He is Co-Chairman of the European Union Youth Orchestra and was previously Managing Director of the BBC World Service and Director of the Barbican Arts Centre. He is the author of On Board\, Making a Noise and On Creativity. \nGillian Darley OBE is a widely published writer and historian who was President of the Twentieth Century Society from 2014 until 2021. She first visited East Tilbury\, in search of the Bata industrial village\, in the early 1970s\, when researching and photographing her first book Villages of Vision (1975\, reissued 2007). Ever since she has returned at regular Intervals. The village featured in her most recent book Excellent Essex (2019). In 2024 Gillian achieved a longed-for aim\, a visit to Zlin. \nMilan Balaban is a historian specializing in business\, economic\, and industrial history\, with a focus on the global Bata Company network. He is a researcher at the Information Centre Bata\, Tomas Bata University in Zlín\, and a lecturer at Palacký University in Olomouc. His work examines industrialisation\, company towns\, and corporate mobility in Central and Eastern Europe. He has published several books\, including Bata across Continents (2022)\, and articles in leading journals\, and lectures internationally on multinational enterprises and industrial modernity. \n  \nAdmission: £5 (+ Eventbrite fee) see booking link below
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/bata-designed-to-belong/
LOCATION:Czech Embassy cinema\, 26 Kensington Palace Gardens\, London\, W8 4QY
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Bata-hotel.jpg
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR