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DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251009T180000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251009T193000
DTSTAMP:20260411T140328
CREATED:20250924T114101Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250924T114101Z
UID:11619-1760032800-1760038200@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:The Czech parliamentary elections
DESCRIPTION:Democracy at a crossroads? The Czech parliamentary elections and their implications \nA roundtable discussion organised by the SSEESing NOW seminar series\, co-sponsored by the British Czech and Slovak Association (BCSA) \nThe Czech Republic will hold parliamentary elections on 3–4 October 2025\, which are widely expected to return Andrej Babiš’s ANO movement to power. In this roundtable event\, organised by the SSEES-ing NOW seminar series and co-sponsored by the BCSA\, specialists on Czech politics\, society\, and public opinion will assess the election results and consider their implications for the Czech Republic’s democracy\, society\, and position in Europe. \nThe event will be moderated by Dr Jakub Benes\, UCL SSEES. It will take place in person (Masaryk Room) and will also be livestreamed online. \nJessie Barton Hronešová is Lecturer in Political Sociology at UCL SSEES with a focus on Central and Southeast Europe. Her research explores the role of narratives in shaping politics\, memory\, and identity\, and she has published widely on these topics. She has also advised international organisations and governments on policy issues relating to transitional justice\, democracy\, and post-war reconstruction in Central and Southeast Europe. \nDr Sean Hanley\, Associate Professor in Comparative Central and East European Politics at UCL SSEES. Sean’s research interests include party politics\, democratic backsliding and resilience\, and the decline of the left in Central and Eastern Europe. He has a longstanding special interest in Czech politics and regularly contributes comment and analysis on Czech and wider Central and Eastern European politics for outlets such as France 24\, Sky News\, Euronews\, Policy Network\, EUROPP\, and iHned.cz. \n\n\nDr Michael Škvrňák Researcher\, Institute of Sociology of the Czech Academy of Sciences. He is also an analyst for PAQ Research. He specialises in the study of political elites\, political careers\, and the quality of democracy\, and also works on data analysis and social policy research at PAQ Research. He has authored or co-authored publications on topics including the impact of election pledges\, coalition formation\, incumbency effects in Czech regional elections\, and the relationship between participation and satisfaction with democracy in Central and Eastern Europe. \n\n\nDr Zora Hesová is assistant professor at the Department of Political Science at Charles University in Prague\, where she focuses on the intersection of culture wars\, religious movements\, and secularism in Central and South Eastern Europe. She co-edited the book Central European Culture Wars: Beyond Post-Communism and Populism and has also published extensively on  Islam\, secularism\, feminism\, and morality politics in Central/Eastern Europe and the Balkans. \nPre-booking is essential via link below. Free admission. \n\n\n\n\nImage credit: Canva\, edited
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/the-czech-parliamentary-elections/
LOCATION:UCL SSEES\, 16 Taviton St\, London\, WC1H 0BW\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:BCSA Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Czech-elections-2025-1.webp
ORGANIZER;CN="UCL SSEES":MAILTO:ssees-events@ucl.ac.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251007T183000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251007T203000
DTSTAMP:20260411T140328
CREATED:20250303T202538Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250303T202538Z
UID:10889-1759861800-1759869000@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:Maria Theresa in Bohemia
DESCRIPTION:A lecture by Richard Bassett. At the age of just twenty-three Empress Maria Theresa succeeded to the Habsburg domains only to find them contested by almost every European power. Over the next forty years she became a fierce leader and opponent\, as well as a devoted wife and mother to sixteen children. \nHer radical reforms transformed central Europe and her lasting legacy continues to reverberate to this day. \nRichard Bassett\, former Times correspondent in Eastern Europe and author of the widely acclaimed Last Days in Old Europe first travelled to Prague as an architectural historian. He later spent nearly ten years covering events in communist Czechoslovakia including the Velvet Revolution. An expert on Central Europe\, he taught at many European universities and is a Bye-Fellow of Christ’s College\, Cambridge. His latest book is Maria Theresa: Empress\, Yale University Press\, £25. \nTickets £15 include a glass of wine. See Eventbrite booking link below. \nAll proceeds raised go towards the care and conservation of Czech heritage. \nImage: Empress Maria Theresa by Martin van Meytens (1759)\, Academy of Fine Arts\, Vienna\, via Creative Commons Wikimedia \nEVENT ORGANISED WITH THE COOPERATION OF THE EMBASSY OF THE CZECH REPUBLIC.
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/maria-theresa-in-bohemia/
LOCATION:Czech Embassy cinema\, 26 Kensington Palace Gardens\, London\, W8 4QY
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Maria-Theresa.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251001T193000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251001T213000
DTSTAMP:20260411T140328
CREATED:20250424T113917Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250424T113917Z
UID:11111-1759347000-1759354200@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:Pavel Haas Quartet
DESCRIPTION:Twenty years after the Pavel Haas Quartet triumphed in the Prague Spring Competition\, their intelligent artistry\, distinguished by intoxicating tonal refinement and searing energy\, continues to mature and deepen. They move from Martinů’s acerbic Third String Quartet to the old-world charm of Korngold’s Op.26 and yearning romanticism of Dvořák’s last string quartet. \nBohuslav Martinů   String Quartet No. 3 \nErich Wolfgang Korngold   String Quartet No. 2 in E flat Op. 26 \nAntonín Dvořák   String Quartet in A flat Op. 105 \n\n\n\nVeronika Jarůšková\,violin\n\n\n\n\nMarek Zwiebel\,violin\n\n\n\n\nŠimon Truszka\,viola\n\n\n\n\nPeter Jarůšek\,cello
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/pavel-haas-quartet-9/
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:20250929T183000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250929T203000
DTSTAMP:20260411T140328
CREATED:20250815T143836Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250815T143836Z
UID:11533-1759170600-1759177800@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:Fiction from wartime Slovakia
DESCRIPTION:Hatchards Piccadilly is  delighted to welcome Jan Zikmund of Karolinum Press along with translator Julia Sherwood and literary scholar Tim Beasley-Murray for a discussion of Slovak literature and\, in particular\, two recently translated prose works of the mid-20th century: \nThe Hours and the Minutes by Alfonz Bednár translated by David Short \nThe Hours and The Minutes was first published in Bratislava in 1956\, the year of Nikita Khrushchev’s “secret speech”\, in which the Soviet leader formally acknowledged Stalin’s tyranny and opened the way for political reform throughout the Eastern Bloc. Alfonz Bednár was one of the first writers to reject nationalist and communist propaganda. In these five novellas\, Bednár is preoccupied with the insensitive\, even inhuman\, rootless\, and amoral modernity that the war and Communist Party imported into traditional Slovak life\, as well as the rural destruction brought about by modernization and urbanization\, and with it a particular approach to life. \nThe Last Thing by Leopold Lahola translated by Julia Sherwood and Peter Sherwood \nSlovak Jewish writer Leopold Lahola escaped deportation to a concentration camp and fought in the resistance – only to then find himself forced into exile by the post-war communist regime. He emerged from obscurity during the brief thaw of the Prague Spring. The nine stories which make up The Last Thing range from the pre-war rise of fascism and its dangers for the Jewish community through the concentration camps and the partisan fight against the Germans\, concluding in the devastating awareness of all that had been lost and destroyed in the war. It’s a collection that offers not only a compelling read but starkly new perspectives on the tragedy and grandeur of that momentous time in history. \nWe hope you will be able to join us if you can for what promises to be a fascinating evening of discussion! \n  \nTickets £5-10 see Eventbrite booking link below
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/fiction-from-wartime-slovakia/
LOCATION:Hatchards Piccadilly\, 187 Piccadilly\, London\, W1J 9LE\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Slovak-WW2-literature.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250921T113000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250921T123000
DTSTAMP:20260411T140328
CREATED:20250413T171724Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250413T171724Z
UID:11064-1758454200-1758457800@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:Trio Gaspard
DESCRIPTION:Trio Gaspard\, hailed by Fanfare for its ‘chameleon-like ability to adapt’ to a vast array of musical styles\, follows its residency at Wigmore Hall in 2023-24 with an exploration of two dark-hued works that project the tremendous power and rhythmic energy of Czech music at its finest. \n  \ngeneral sale opens 23 April \n  \nBohuslav Martinů   Piano Trio No. 2 in D minor \nAntonín Dvořák      Piano Trio in F minor Op. 65 \n  \n\nJonian Ilias Kadesha violin\n\n\n\nVashti Hunter cello\n\n\n\nNicholas Rimmer piano
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/trio-gaspard/
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/trio-gaspard.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250921T110000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250921T170000
DTSTAMP:20260411T140328
CREATED:20250726T125945Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250726T125945Z
UID:11478-1758452400-1758474000@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:The Emil Zátopek Run
DESCRIPTION:Thames Valley Harriers and the Czech Centre invite you to lace up your trainers and join the fourth annual Emil Zátopek Charity Run — a celebration of grit\, greatness and the timeless spirit of one of the most extraordinary athletes the world has ever known. \nWhether you’re racing for a personal best\, chasing your first finish line\, or just soaking in the spirit of sport — this is your run. \nThis year\, we’re introducing a fresh new format: \nA 1-MILE CHARITY RUN FOR ALL AGES\n&\nQUADKIDS ATHLETICS COMPETITION\n(athletic mini-races for children in running\, jumping\, throwing and sprinting)\nYou can also look forward to \n\nFREE games and other activities by Czech School Without Borders and Okenko.uk\n\nFood\, BBQ\, Czech beer and other refreshments after the run\nMedal Ceremony & Chill-Out Social After the Race\n\nMore information about registration and the day’s timings will be available soon.  \nABOUT EMIL ZÁTOPEK\nKnown as “The Czech Locomotive”\, Emil Zátopek wasn’t just a runner — he was a force of nature. With an unorthodox stride and unstoppable will\, he conquered the 1948 London Olympics and shattered records in Helsinki in 1952\, winning gold in the 5000m\, 10000m\, and marathon — all in one Games. No one has done it since. \nThere are many books and films about Zátopek’s life and sport achievements\, including those of British authors: Richard Askwith’s biography Today We Die a Little: The Rise and Fall of Emil Zatopek\, Olympic Legend and Pat Butcher’s Quicksilver: The Mercurial Emil Zatopek. \nIn 2013\, Runner’s World named him the Greatest Runner of All Time. \nZÁTOPEK ATHLETIC FELLOWSHIP\nThe Emil Zátopek Run was first organised by CC and TVH in 2022 to celebrate Zátopek’s centennial anniversary and raise funds for a newly established Zátopek Athletic Fellowship\, empowering young talent from West London to chase their dreams on the track\, just like Zátopek once did.  \nProceeds from starting fees as well as all voluntary contributions towards the Zátopek Run will be donated to support the Fellowship. \nAny donations towards The Zátopek’s Athletic Fellowship can be sent to:\nBusiness Account name: Thames Valley Harriers\nSort Code: 60-05-30\nAccount Number: 17125197\nplease add Payment Reference: Zatopek \nDIRECTIONS: \nRace registration will be next to the Thames Valley Harriers clubhouse in Linford Christie Stadium. The entrance for cars is Artillery Lane off Du Cane Rd\, between the hospitals and prison\, postcode for satnav W12 OAE. At the end of Artillery Lane approaching the Scrubs\, there is a 6’ 6” height barrier entrance to the main car park\, the stadium is located at the end of the car park. \nFor public transport East Acton on the Central Line is the closest station\, a few minutes walk from the stadium. Buses stop on Du Cane Rd near Artillery Lane\, please see details for buses stopping at Hammersmith Hospital on the Transport for London website.
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/the-emil-zatopek-run-4/
LOCATION:Linford Christie Athletic Stadium\, Linford Christie Road\, London\, W12 0DF\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Zatopek-run-2025.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250920T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250920T210000
DTSTAMP:20260411T140328
CREATED:20250413T163302Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250413T163302Z
UID:11055-1758394800-1758402000@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:Jakub Hrůša and Friends
DESCRIPTION:New Music Director of The Royal Opera Jakub Hrůša leads the Orchestra of the Royal Opera House in a rich programme of Czech and Hungarian music. From the hallucinatory orchestral colours of Béla Bartók’s scandalous Suite from The Miraculous Mandarin\, to Antonín Dvořák’s rarely-heard cantata for soloists and chorus\, The Spectre’s Bride\, an evening of extraordinary musical storytelling awaits. Don’t miss this chance to see the Orchestra and Chorus of the Royal Opera House centre stage in a thrilling programme of concert works. \nTwo macabre musical tales \nShocking\, scandalous\, and a masterclass in orchestration\, Béla Bartók’s The Miraculous Mandarin created a sensation when it was first performed as a ballet in 1926. A young woman dances in a window\, luring men to a violent death. What begins as a sordid tale of sex and murder turns into something altogether more sinister\, when her final victim demands satisfaction – from beyond the grave…  Arranged in 1928\, this orchestral Suite condenses the ballet’s lurid tale\, stopping short of the story’s bloody consummation\, whilst still retaining the score’s hallucinogenic vividness. \nAntonín Dvořák’s cantata\, The Spectre’s Bride\, tells the macabre tale of a young bride-to-be who is kidnapped by a ghost she believes to be her lover. Composed in 1884\, and based on a poem by Karel Jaromír Erben (whose folktales inspired Dvořák’s much-loved opera\, Rusalka)\, this rarely-performed work for soloists\, chorus and orchestra depicts the bride’s wild ride through a hellish night – but as dawn breaks\, order is restored. Alongside the Royal Opera Chorus\, a trio of Czech soloists (Kateřina Kněžíková and Pavol Kubáň in their Royal Opera debuts\, and Pavel Černoch) bring this spectacular tale to life. \ngeneral booking opens 2 July 2025
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/jakub-hrusa-and-friends/
LOCATION:Royal Opera House
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/hrusa.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250907T101500
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250907T171000
DTSTAMP:20260411T140328
CREATED:20250726T124222Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250726T124223Z
UID:11472-1757240100-1757265000@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:Emigré Czech architects walking tour
DESCRIPTION:A London walking tour to see the work of emigré Czech architects. Following on from John East’s informative lecture in the Czech Embassy last year\, we are delighted to have Ivan Margolius (architect and author) show us key buildings\, with some of which he was involved. \nMeet at 10:15 hrs in the Bollinger Gallery at the Victoria and Albert & Albert Museum. We will see Eva Jiřičná staircases followed by a unique architectural tour of Lords with lunch at their Tavern (13:30 to 14:30). After lunch we will see various Yorke Rosenberg and Mardall/YRM and Future Systems structures in the Waterloo\, Canary Wharf and City areas. The tour will end at approximately 17:10 hrs near Chancery Lane\, City of London. \nPrice £30\, covering all entrance charges\, but not any meals\, coffee or extras. PRE-BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL. \nPlease email us your name/s and those of any guests to:\nevents@czechfriends.net\nBooking deadline is 25th August 2025.\nMaximum number of persons: 20\nPlease send any questions to: info@czechfriends.net \nImages\, clockwise from top left: Bollinger Gallery in V&A Museum/ Lords Media Centre / West India Quay Bridge / YRM building\, Greystoke Place in the City. All images © R. Dowden except for top right ©Hobbs Luton via Creative Commons Wikimedia \n 
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/emigre-czech-architects-walking-tour/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Friends-walking-tour.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Friends of Czech Heritage":MAILTO:info@czechfriends.net
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250903T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251004T170000
DTSTAMP:20260411T140328
CREATED:20250820T144117Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250820T144217Z
UID:11550-1756893600-1759597200@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:Toyen: dreaming in the margins
DESCRIPTION:Richard Saltoun Gallery presents Dreaming in the Margins: Toyen\, the first UK exhibition devoted to one of the most extraordinary women artists of the Surrealist movement\, whose reputation and critical reappraisal have risen dramatically in recent years. Recognized one of the most enigmatic and fiercely independent figures in Surrealism\, Toyen (1902–1980) was born Marie Čermínová in Prague. She adopted a gender-neutral identity early in life\, rejecting societal conventions – a position reflected throughout her work and public persona. \nToyen was a central figure in both the pre war formation of Surrealism in Prague with the Devestil Group and later in post war Paris with the Surrealists. Her workin Prague with Jindřich Štyrský\, and later with Jindřich Heisler\, were regarded by André Breton as quintessential contributions to the Surrealist movement. Their friendship and creative exchange endured until his death\, after which Toyen moved into his former studio at 42 Rue Fontaine\, where she lived until her own death in 1980. \nThis exhibition brings into focus the depth and breadth of Toyen’s graphic work – including illustrated books\, prints\, drawings\, catalogues and archival materials – making it one of the most comprehensive presentations of this part of her oeuvre ever compiled. The exhibits are drawn entirely from a single-owner collection. \nWith the outbreak of the Second World War\, Toyen remained in Nazi-occupied Prague. Following the death of Štyrský in 1942\, she entered into a close creative and personal partnership with the poet Jindřich Heisler\, who was living in hiding as a Jewish writer. Toyen sheltered Heisler in her apartment for the entire war – an act of profound solidarity and resistance. In 1947\, Toyen relocated permanently to Paris with Heisler\, and became one of the few women deeply involved in Surrealism’s post war resurgence. In the final two decades of her life\, Toyen formed a deep artistic and intellectual bond with the poet\, philosopher and fellow Surrealist\, Annie Le Brun. \nFree entry. Opening times: Tues-Fri\, 10am-6pm\, Saturdays 11am-5pm.  \nImage copyright the estate of the artist
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/toyen-dreaming-in-the-margins/
LOCATION:Richard Saltoun Gallery\, 41 Dover Street\, London\, W1S 4NS\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Toyen.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250803T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250823T190500
DTSTAMP:20260411T140328
CREATED:20250315T165908Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250315T165908Z
UID:10932-1754233200-1755975900@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:Káťa Kabanová
DESCRIPTION:Janáček’s powerful tale of love and heartache in a searingly beautiful staging. \n\n\n\nTrapped in an unhappy marriage Káťa is drawn into a passionate affair. As a wild storm brews\, she is overwhelmed by her actions. Damiano Michieletto’s raw staging cuts to the heart of Káťa’s guilt and despair as she makes a choice between love and life itself. \nSung in Czech with English supertitles. \nKáťa Kabanová – Kateřina Kněžíková \ngardens open 2pm\, opera starts at 4pm with a 90 minute interval
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/kata-kabanova-2/
LOCATION:Glyndbourne\, Lewes\, Sussex\, BN8 5UU\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/katya-kabanova.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250623T180000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250623T203000
DTSTAMP:20260411T140328
CREATED:20250611T103102Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250611T103102Z
UID:11287-1750701600-1750710600@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:Jewish women from Slovakia
DESCRIPTION:A panel discussion about Jewish women from Slovakia – Legacy and Identities accompanied by the opening of an exhibition “Women who have left their mark” at the Slovak Embassy\, London. \n\nMichal Vaněk – Director of the Museum of Jewish Culture\, who prepared the exhibition\n\nMichal  has worked at the Museum of Jewish Culture of the Slovak National Museum since 2009\, where he started as a curator. He is an author and co-author of several internationally acclaimed exhibitions related to the development of Jewish sport and its leading personalities. \n\nJulia Sherwood – will be talking about “Agneša Kalinová\, her life (or Seven Lives) and legacy“ and briefly about Irena Blühová.\n\nJulia is a translator and promoter of Slovak literature She was born and grew up in Bratislava and studied English and Slavonic languages and literature in Cologne\, London and Munich. She co-curates the website SlovakLiterature.com and is the editor of Seagull Books’ Slovak List. \n\nCaroline Hilton – will be focusing on the life of her mother\, Gerta Vrbová\, who is part of the exhibition\, after World War II and the challenges she faced.\n\nCaroline is an Associate Professor in Primary Education at UCL Institute of Education. \n\nDr. Bea Lewkowicz – will be moderating the evening and discussing the lives of the Slovak-Jewish interviewees in the AJR Refugee Voices Archive.\n\nBea is an Oral Historian and Curator. She is the director and co-founder of two oral history archives\, the AJR Refugee Voices Testimony Archive of the Association of Jewish Refugees and Sephardi Voices UK. She is the Project Lead of the Holocaust Testimony UK portal which launched was launched in December 2024\, and recently curated the 80 Objects/80 Lives digital exhibition. She is currently working on a book based on her mother’s testimony (Hiding in Plain Sight – A Holocaust Memoir of Survival in Slovakia). \n\nDr Jana Burešová´s topic for the discussion will be “Lest We Forget Them: The Unacknowledged Inspirational Women“\n\nJana is a historian specialising in Czechoslovak exile\, particularly women refugees and WWII-era migration; contributes to exile studies research and works on works on refugee oral and archival testimonies. \nThe specially curated exhibition aims to present inspiring female figures of Jewish origin who are linked to the territory of today’s Slovakia – they were born here\, lived here or are of Slovak origin – and whose achievements in science\, art\, and business left a lasting international legacy. In spite of historical barriers\, these women rose to prominence and helped to redefine women’s role within society. Through their stories\, we warmly encourage you to join us for an evening dedicated to memory\, talent and the talent and an ongoing journey to recognition. \nFree entry\, all are welcome in person or online. Doors open at 5.30pm. \nRegistration via Eventbrite booking link below is essential. \nHosted by the Embassy of the Slovak Republic in London in collaboration with the Museum of Jewish Culture in Bratislava\, the Association of Jewish Refugees (AJR) and the British Czech and Slovak Association (BCSA).
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/jewish-women-from-slovakia/
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/2025/06/Jewish-Slovak-women.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250621T140000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250621T180000
DTSTAMP:20260411T140328
CREATED:20250325T151712Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250531T173646Z
UID:10973-1750514400-1750528800@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:BCSA/CBCC Garden Party
DESCRIPTION:Our summer social will once again be held in the gardens of the Czech and Slovak Embassies\, with their kind permission.  \nAll are welcome – not just BCSA members. Bring your friends\, bring your family! Enjoy an afternoon relaxing among Slovak\, Czech and British people. \n\nTraditional dance performance by Okénko\nRaffle prizes include Ensana hotel stays at Buxton Crescent Hotel\, Mariánské Lázně – Nové Lázně or Pieštany health spa\nChildren’s art competition exhibition\n\n\nThe ticket price includes one complimentary alcoholic/non-alcoholic beverage. This year catering will be provided by the chef of the Czech Embassy whose premises have been made available to us.\n\n\n\n Admission by pre-paid tickets only; see booking link below\n\n\n£14.00 children (5-15 years)\n\n\n£19.00 full-time students\n\n\n£24.00 BCSA members\n\n\n£30.00 non-members\n\n\n£60.00 member family package (two adults\, three children 5-15)\n\n\n£72.00 non-member family package (two adults\, three children 5-15)\n\n\nComplimentary admission for children under 5 years\n\n\nTickets non-refundable after June 16th (00:00 BST)\n\nCapacity is limited; early booking is recommended to secure your attendance.\n 
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/bcsa-cbcc-garden-party/
LOCATION:Czech Embassy\, 26-30 Kensington Palace Gardens\, London\, W8 4QY
CATEGORIES:BCSA Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/garden-party-2024-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250613T183000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250613T203000
DTSTAMP:20260411T140328
CREATED:20250605T114400Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250605T114400Z
UID:11245-1749839400-1749846600@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:Volhynian Czechs in western Ukraine
DESCRIPTION:Who are the Volhynian Czechs? Discover the powerful and little-known story of a Czech community that took root in Volhynia (western Ukraine) in the 19th century—and has stood at the crossroads of war\, displacement\, and identity ever since. \nProfessor Lyudmyla Chyzhevska\, head of the Zhytomyr Association of Volhynian Czechs and the Czech National Council of Ukraine\, she shares insights on: \n\n19th-century Czech settlement in Volhynia\nTheir role in WWI and WWII\nDisplacement after the Chernobyl disaster and during recent conflicts\nThe present-day challenges facing this community\n\n🗣️ Q&A session to follow \nFree entry\, all are welcome in person or online. \nRegistration via Eventbrite booking link below is essential. \nOrganised by the Czech and Slovak School Okénko & the British Czech and Slovak Association in cooperation with the Embassy of the Czech Republic\, London \n 
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/volhynian-czechs-in-western-ukraine/
LOCATION:Czech Embassy\, 26-30 Kensington Palace Gardens\, London\, W8 4QY
CATEGORIES:BCSA Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Volhynian-Czechs-poster.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250601T120000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250621T140000
DTSTAMP:20260411T140328
CREATED:20250601T154322Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250601T154507Z
UID:11226-1748779200-1750514400@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:2025 children's art competition
DESCRIPTION:Calling all young artists and writers in the UK with Czech or Slovak origins!\n\nThis year’s theme “FREEDOM” is inspired by the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II.\n\nWhat does freedom mean to you today? When do you feel the most free\, and why? What does a free world look like in your imagination? Why is freedom important for everyone\, not just for you? What message do you want your artwork to share about freedom?\n\nYou can express yourself in any ART form.\n\nWinners will be announced at the BCSA/CBCC Garden Party on 21st June 2025 and will receive prizes.\n\nAge categories: 5-7\, 8-10\, 11-14\, 15-18.\n\nSubmission in person by 2pm on the day of the garden party or by post by 18th June 2025.  Please email events@bcsa.co.uk for the postal address.\n\nWe look forward to receiving your art works.
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/2025-childrens-art-competition/
CATEGORIES:BCSA Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/art-competition-2025.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250520T180000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250520T203000
DTSTAMP:20260411T140328
CREATED:20250508T103744Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250509T094613Z
UID:11151-1747764000-1747773000@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:The Auschwitz Report (Správa)
DESCRIPTION:A screening of the film The Auschwitz Report (Správa) based on the true story of Rudolf Vrba and Alfréd Wetzler\, two prisoners at the Auschwitz concentration camp who managed to escape with details about the camp’s operation including a label from a canister of the pesticide Zyklon-B\, used in the murders there. Once across the border into Žilina\, Slovakia\, they are asked by the resistance to type up their recollections\, which later becomes known as the Vrba-Wetzler report. The pair are eventually introduced to a representative from the Red Cross\, who despite disbelief at their claims agrees to pass on the report to the Allies. \nA 2021 film directed by Peter Bebjak who co-wrote the script with Jozef Pastéka & Peter Bebjack. It is a co-production between Slovakia\, the Czech Republic\, Poland and Germany. \nFollowing the screening\, there will be a Q&A session with actor Noël Czuczor (playing Alfred Wetzler) as well as personal reflections shared by Dr Bea Lewkowitz (Director\, Association of Jewish Refugee Voices Testimony Archive) and Caroline Hilton (daughter of Rudi Vrba and Gerta Vrbova). A profile of Gerta is available on the BCSA website Czech Slovak British Connections – British Czech and Slovak Association \n  \nEntry to this event is free but registration is essential see booking link below \nThis event will take place in person only. \nLight refreshments will be served afterwards. \n  \nHosted by the Embassy of the Slovak Republic in London in cooperation with Association of Jewish Refugees and British Czech and Slovak Association as part of a commemorative series of events marking the 80th anniversary of the Second World War. \n 
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/the-auschwitz-report-sprava/
LOCATION:Czech Embassy cinema\, 26 Kensington Palace Gardens\, London\, W8 4QY
CATEGORIES:BCSA Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/auschwitz-report.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250519T183000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250519T193000
DTSTAMP:20260411T140328
CREATED:20250324T153341Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250330T121123Z
UID:10957-1747679400-1747683000@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:The 1938 Runciman Mission to Prague
DESCRIPTION:As Europe faces yet another major crisis only 80 years after the end of World War Two and confronts the threat of war while latter-day dictators set the terms of peace in Ukraine\, it is timely to revisit the role and aim of the Runciman Mission to Prague from 3 August to 16 September 1938. The context then was Hitler’s geo-political ambition and Neville Chamberlain’s appeasement policy to gain ‘peace for our time’. On 30 September 1938 the Munich Agreement ceded Czechoslovakia’s Sudetenland to Hitler – ‘O nás bez nás’ [‘about us without us’]. Must history repeat itself? On 15 March 1939 it was followed by the total occupation of Bohemia and Moravia. \nDr Ann Shukman\, granddaughter of William Runciman\, will answer questions received in advance regarding the Mission and her insightful book 44 Days in Prague: The Runciman Mission and the Race to Save Europe published by Hurst & Co. UK in 2024. She will be joined by her daughter\, Clare Ramos\, and her son David Shukman. \nPlease send any questions for Dr. Shukman to events@bcsa.co.uk. \nDr Shukman graduated in Modern Languages from Cambridge and gained a doctorate in Russian Literary theory from Oxford. Her lifelong interests have been Russia and the Christian church. In 1994 she was one of the first women ordained in the Church of England. \nThis event will be held via Zoom only. \nIt is held jointly with the Friends of Czech Heritage (FoCH) www.czechfriends.net \nBCSA and FoCH members enjoy free registration which is essential see booking link below \nNon-members £10\, full-time students £5. Eventbrite fees will be added to the cost of your tickets at checkout. \n  \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. For more information about our fund see www.bcsa.co.uk/school-support-fund/ \n  \n 
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/the-1938-runciman-mission-to-prague/
CATEGORIES:BCSA Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Runciman.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250513T183000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250513T203000
DTSTAMP:20260411T140328
CREATED:20250429T141845Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250429T141845Z
UID:11124-1747161000-1747168200@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:Legacy of courage and rescue
DESCRIPTION:Legacy of Courage and Rescue: 80 Years Since the End of World War II. A panel discussion organised by the British Czech and Slovak Association\, the Memorial Association for Free Czechoslovak Veterans and the Embassy of the Slovak Republic. Join us as we reflect on the heroism\, suffering\, and hope that emerged from one of the most defining moments of the 20th century. \nThe event will also include the official presentation of the exhibition “Slovak Memorials to Victims of the II World War” \nWe look forward to welcoming you for an evening of remembrance\, dialogue\, and historical reflection. \nPanelists: \nGerry Manolas  chair\, Memorial Association for Free Czechoslovak Veterans \nThe Czechoslovak Independent Armoured Brigade (Dunkirk) \nFilm Siege Soldiers- Fortress Dunkirk by George Scott \nSylvia Daintrey on the role of Herbert Lowit in the surrender of Dunkirk \nFilm Parade of Hope \n  \nLady Milena Grenfell-Baines –  The Kindertransport \n  \nMagdalena Luscombe and Nina Buckley –  RAF Pilots (Václav Robert Bozděch and Antis) \n  \nEntry to this event is free but registration is essential\, see booking link below \nThis event will take place in person and will also be livestreamed. \nLight refreshments will be served afterwards.
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/legacy-of-courage-and-rescue/
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/2025/04/Slavin-Bratislava.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250509T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250510T210000
DTSTAMP:20260411T140328
CREATED:20250302T154434Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250302T154434Z
UID:10884-1746817200-1746910800@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:Iva Bittová & JeFis Duo
DESCRIPTION:Singer and violinist Iva Bittová in a joint concert with JeFis Duo (violinist Pavel Fischer and accordionist Jakub Jedlinsky). A captivating world music combining influences of Moravian\, Balkan\, Jewish\, Irish and Roma music. \nThe work of the duo Jedlinský – Fischer combines traditional ethnic music with elements of classical\, jazz and free improvisation. It is inspired by the truth of folk music\, whose message is love\, joy and the desire for harmony. \nIva Bittová creates her music in a similar way. When such creative souls as these three occasionally meet during their concerts\, their musical testimony is even more intensified!\n“In today’s divided world full of uncertainty\, discord\, anger and stupidity\, when we seek light and love\, or just common human decency\, music can be that beacon. It knows no boundaries\, it doesn’t judge\, it just sounds\, consoles and heals.” Duo Jedlinský – Fischer\n“My approach to music is based on contact with nature. What really inspires me is absolute silence and a completely positive atmosphere….” Iva Bittová \n  \nManchester Friday 9 May 7pm Didsbury Baptist Church tickets from Czech School & Community Manchester online ticket sales powered by TicketSource \nLondon Saturday 10 May 7pm tickets from Buy tickets – Koncert Iva Bittová & JeFis Duo | Live Performance Iva Bittová & JeFis Duo – St Philip’s Church\, Earl’s Court Road \nThe concerts are organised by the Czech and Slovak School Okénko in cooperation with Czech School & Community Manchester and the Embassy of the Czech Republic in London. \n 
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/iva-bittova-jefis-duo/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Iva-Bittova.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250504T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250506T213000
DTSTAMP:20260411T140328
CREATED:20241022T145049Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241022T145049Z
UID:10400-1746385200-1746567000@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:Janáček: Excursions of Mr Brouček
DESCRIPTION:The ‘hero’ of Janáček’s 1920 satire is the sausage- and beer-guzzling Brouček\, a complacent\, commitment-averse landlord. Over two acts he travels to both the moon and the fifteenth century. Thinking the grass will be greener both times\, Brouček finds himself out of step with the communities he encounters\, almost fatally so at one point. He ends up learning nothing\, yet manages to claim he saved his homeland from disaster. Janáček’s colourful score and vividly-drawn characters are perfect for this uproarious\, off-beat story.  \nLondon Symphony Orchestra\nSir Simon Rattle conductor\nPeter Hoare Brouček\nAleš Briscein Mazal/Blankytný/Petřík\nLucy Crowe Málinka/Etherea/Kunka\n\nGyula Orendt Sakristán/Lunobor/Domšík\nLukáš Zeman Svatopluk/Würfl/Čaroskvoucí/Ratsherr\nClara Nadeshdin Číšníček/Wunderkind/Student\nArttu Kataja Artist/Dohuslav/Vojta\nLinard Vrielink Skladatel/Harfoboj/Miroslav\nHanna Hipp Kedruta
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/janacek-excursions-of-mr-broucek/
LOCATION:Barbican Centre\, Silk Street\, London\, EC2Y 8DS\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/RAttle.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250430T183000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250430T203000
DTSTAMP:20260411T140328
CREATED:20250412T163947Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250412T163947Z
UID:11047-1746037800-1746045000@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:Wild Slovakia with Nigel Marven
DESCRIPTION:Join Nigel Marven as he presents his documentary film Wild Slovakia with Nigel Marven. This highly regarded documentary shows the natural beauties of Slovakia from watching a brown bear at a distance of just 40 metres\, fighting with a wood grouse to being completely covered by European ground squirrels. \nThis documentary was filmed in 2022 and 2023 by a British-Slovak team with exceptional scenes of Slovakia’s nature and also recorded interviews with experts on nature protection\, environmentalism and ecotourism. \nAs the documentary’s official website states “With its biodiversity\, Slovakia\, as a secret gem of Europe\, can compete with exotic countries of the world.” \nNigel Marven is a renowned British wildlife TV presenter\, naturalist\, conservationist\, author\, and television producer. He has filmed for National Geographic and Animal Planet\, worked for 12 years with Sir David Attenborough and made more than 150 films. \nLight refreshments will be served afterwards. \nEntry to this event is free but registration is essential see link below \nThis event will take place in person and will also be livestreamed.  \nIt is held in association with and hosted by the Embassy of the Slovak Republic.
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/wild-slovakia-with-nigel-marven/
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/2025/04/wild-slovakia.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250422T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250422T210000
DTSTAMP:20260411T140328
CREATED:20250302T132548Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250302T132548Z
UID:10880-1745348400-1745355600@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:Pioneers of Czech Graphic Design
DESCRIPTION:The history of both Czech and global graphic design would be incomplete without the ground breaking contributions of Czech artists whose work transcended borders and shaped visual culture worldwide. This event explores the lasting impact of Alphonse Mucha\, Karel Teige\, Ladislav Sutnar\, and Miroslav Šašek—visionaries whose innovations continue to inspire designers today. \nMucha\, the pre-eminent exponent of Art Nouveau\, revolutionized visual culture in Belle Époque Paris with his iconic theatre and advertising posters\, laying the foundation for modern graphic design\, whileTeige\, a key figure of the European avant-garde\, redefined book design through bold typography and geometric compositions. Sutnar pioneered modern information design\, creating user-friendly communication systems that remain relevant today\, and Šašek’s beloved This is… series of illustrated city guides reshaped how generations of children experienced the world. \nCurator Tomoko Sato (Mucha Foundation)\, Peter Zusi (The Integrity of the Avant-Garde\, Karel Teige and the Biography of an Ambition\, Legenda 2024)\,Adrian Shaughnessy (graphic designer and RCA senior lecturer)\, and Lukáš Novotný (designer and illustrator) will shed light on how these Czech designers helped shape modern visual culture through a series of illustrated presentations\, followed by a panel discussion and Q&A. \nTomoko Sato has been curator of the Mucha Foundation since 2007\, overseeing its exhibition and research programs. Formerly curator at the Barbican Art Gallery (Barbican Centre)\, London\, she has curated a wide range of exhibitions examin- ing the art\, architecture\, design\, and photography of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries\, with a long-standing interest in the artistic and cul- tural cross-fertilization between East and West. Her publications include Japan and Britain: An Aesthetic Dialogue\, 1850–1930 (Lund Humphries\, 1991)\, The Wilde Years: Oscar Wilde and the Art of His Time (Philip Wilson\, 2000)\, Mucha (Taschen\, 2015)\, Alphonse Mucha Photographs (Mucha Foundation Publishing\, 2018)\, and Le Pater: Le Grand Oeuvre d’Alphonse Mucha (Édition de la Réunion des musées nationaux-Grand Palais\, 2023). \nPeter Zusi is Associate Professor of Czech and Comparative Literature at the UCL School of Slavonic and East European Studies\, where he also serves as Vice Dean for Research in the Faculty of Arts & Humanities. Peter’s research spans various disciplines\, including Czech and German literature and culture from the 18th through 21st centuries\, Central European intellectual history\, Czechoslovak film and photography\, Slovak literature\, theory of literary and visual avant-gardes and modernism\, philosophy of history\, Critical Theory\, and the intersection of literature and architecture. He is also the author of the recently published The Integrity of the Avant-Garde: Karel Teige and the Biography of an Ambition (Cambridge\, England: Legenda\, 2024). \nAdrian Shaughnessy is a graphic designer\, writer\, educator and publisher. A senior lecturer at the RCA\, he also works as an independent design consultant. His book How to Be a Graphic Designer Without Losing Your Soul has sold 80\,000 copies and been translated into multiple languages. He is a member of the Alliance Graphique Internationale and a regular contributor to leading design journals. He co-founded Unit Editions\, publishing acclaimed design books\, and has authored monographs on Herb Lubalin\, Ken Garland\, Paula Scher\, Vaughan Oliver\, FHK Henrion and Lance Wyman. \nLukáš Novotný is an illustrator\, graphic designer and author. His background is in the world of civil engineering and architecture\, and most of his illustrations and design work relates to architecture and cities. His latest book\, Modern New York\, won 2024 Communication Arts Awards while his first book\, Modern London\, was shortlisted for the British Book Design Awards. His work was featured on BBC Radio London\, TimeOut London\, Czech Television\, Londonist\, Grand Designs magazine\, Outsider and more. \n\nAdmission: £5 (+ Eventbrite fee) see booking link below
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/pioneers-of-czech-graphic-design/
LOCATION:Czech Embassy cinema\, 26 Kensington Palace Gardens\, London\, W8 4QY
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/graphic-design.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250415T183000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250415T203000
DTSTAMP:20260411T140328
CREATED:20250324T150337Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250326T173358Z
UID:10955-1744741800-1744749000@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:Prague 22 tram journey through the city
DESCRIPTION:Join Raymond Tallis on this illustrated memoir of a daily journey on tram number 22 that links his flat in Vršovice and Prague Castle. Explore with him his observations encompassing the magic\, culture and history as well as the tragedy of Prague\, interwoven by his philosophical but also humorous reflections\, and meet en route a host of prominent figures. This talk is based on Raymond’s book Prague 22: A Philosopher Takes A Tram Through a City published by Philosophy Now in 2025. \nRaymond Tallis is a philosopher\, poet\, novelist and cultural critic\, and has published widely on philosophical topics\, but prior to his retirement was Professor of Geriatric Medicine at the University of Manchester and was elected Fellow of the Academy of Medical Sciences in recognition of his contribution to medical research. \nThis event will take place in person and will also be livestreamed \nBCSA members enjoy free entry but registration is essential see booking link below \nNon-members £10\, full-time students £5. Eventbrite fees will be added to the cost of your tickets at checkout. \nLight refreshments will be served after the talk. \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. For more information about our fund see www.bcsa.co.uk/school-support-fund/
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/prague-22-tram-journey-through-the-city/
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/2025/03/Namesti-Miru-blossom-Apr22-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250408T183000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250408T203000
DTSTAMP:20260411T140328
CREATED:20250128T135831Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250128T210655Z
UID:10768-1744137000-1744144200@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:A Life in Bat'a Modernism
DESCRIPTION:Sir John Tusa\, born in Zlín\, Moravia\, talks about the influence of Modernist architecture on his life with some 50 slides of Zlín and Tilbury\, including historic videos of East Tilbury and Coronation Day celebrations.  \nTwo days before the German occupation of Czechoslovakia on 15 March 1939\, John’s father flew out of Czechoslovakia on a Bat’a company plane via Poland\, Yugoslavia and France\, becoming general manager and later managing director of the Bat’a factory and its associated village in East Tilbury. British Bat’a Shoes\, based on the Czechoslovak pattern\, created a pioneering work-living community around its model modern movement factory – estate houses\, tennis courts\, a swimming pool\, and factory buildings all in for 1930s England: a radical concept within the architecture of European High Modernism.  \n“From the Neo-Bauhaus Modernism of my birth town\, Bat’a Zlín\, to the so-called ‘Brutalism’ of the Barbican\, I have always lived comfortably with Modernism. After all\, it is the architecture of my life and times.” \nSir John Tusa is a writer\, TV journalist and arts administrator. \nTickets £15 including a glass of wine see booking link below \n 
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/a-life-in-bata-modernism/
LOCATION:Czech Embassy cinema\, 26 Kensington Palace Gardens\, London\, W8 4QY
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Zlin.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250319T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250319T203000
DTSTAMP:20260411T140328
CREATED:20250304T172652Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250306T220340Z
UID:10894-1742410800-1742416200@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:Míla Fürstová in conversation
DESCRIPTION:The discussion will explore the renowned Czech artist’s life and award winning art. Highly regarded for her etchings and beautiful book illustrations for Czech classics such as Kytice (a bouquet of folk legends) by Karel Jaromír Erben and Božena Němcová’s Babička (grandmother)  some of which came to be adapted as Czech postage stamps. Book illustrations for Máj (May) by Karel Hynek Mácha are her latest work. \nIn 2014 Fürstová’s work reached over 400 million people when she was commissioned to create the artwork for Coldplay’s Ghost Stories album and four singles.  \nMíla’s large-scale installation Motherhood can be found at 191 Old Marylebone Road on the site of the former Queen Charlotte’s Lying-In Hospital\, one of the first hospitals to provide medical care for unmarried women. She won Westminster City Council’s competition for the commission of the work. \nBorn in Czechoslovakia\, Míla gained an MA degree in Art\, English Language and Psychology at Charles University in Prague\, whilst simultaneously studying for a BA degree in Fine Art Printmaking at the University of Gloucestershire.  In 2001 she received a masters degree from the Royal College of Art and subsequently lectured at Coventry University and The University of Gloucestershire. Míla currently lives and works in Cheltenham. \nBCSA members enjoy free entry but registration is essential.  £10 (+ Eventbrite fee) for non-members\,  £5 (+ Eventbrite fee) for students. See booking link below. \nLight refreshments will be served. \nThis event will also be livestreamed via Zoom. \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. For more information about our fund see www.bcsa.co.uk/school-support-fund/
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/mila-furstova-in-conversation/
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/2025/03/Mila-Furstova.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250319T180000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250319T184500
DTSTAMP:20260411T140328
CREATED:20250227T125925Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250227T125925Z
UID:10859-1742407200-1742409900@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:BCSA Annual General Meeting 2025
DESCRIPTION:The BCSA AGM is open to all members. The agenda includes the presentation of the chair’s and financial reports for 2024 plus the election of honorary officers of the executive committee. Copies of the independently examined accounts for 2024 and the minutes of the AGM held on 20 March 2024 will be available at the meeting together with the treasurer’s report. \nThe four honorary officer posts – chair\, vice-chair\, secretary and  treasurer –  are held for one year and are subject to election at every AGM. The current chair\, Jana Nahodilova\, as well as the remaining officers\, namely Ruzena Holub\, Blanka Shrimpton and Ivona Klemensova respectively\, are willing to stand for re-election. \nCommittee members are elected for a term of three years. Jana Buresova is standing for re-election this year and Sandra Milite for election as a full member of the committee. \nAny member of the BCSA can be nominated as an honorary officer or committee member. Nomination forms can be obtained from  Blanka Shrimpton by e-mail: secretary@bcsa.co.uk and returned to her by 12 March 2025. \nPlease register your attendance\, or apologies for absence\, to secretary@bcsa.co.uk. \nThe AGM will also be livestreamed via Zoom; the  link will be made available following registration. \nMila Fürstová in conversation will follow the formal part of the evening.
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/bcsa-annual-general-meeting-2025/
LOCATION:Czech Embassy cinema\, 26 Kensington Palace Gardens\, London\, W8 4QY
CATEGORIES:BCSA Events
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DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250308T193000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250308T213000
DTSTAMP:20260411T140328
CREATED:20241019T174506Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241019T174506Z
UID:10388-1741462200-1741469400@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:Czech Philharmonic: Mozart\, Mahler
DESCRIPTION:The Czech Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Semyon Bychkov perform Mozart’s Concerto for Two Pianos with Katia and Mariella Labèque followed by Mahler’s Symphony No 5. \nMozart wrote his concerto for two pianos for himself and his sister. \nSemyon Bychkov and his Prague orchestra have attracted lavish praise for their Mahler symphony cycle. Their recording of the Symphony No 5 was the Sunday Times’ 2022 Classical Album of the Year\, conjuring ‘a musical universe of dreams and prophecies’ full of ‘sonic opulence with textural clarity’ with its achingly poignant Adagietto made famous by Visconti in his film Death in Venice.
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/czech-philharmonic-mozart-mahler/
LOCATION:Barbican Centre\, Silk Street\, London\, EC2Y 8DS\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Czech-Philharmonic-scaled.jpg
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DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250308T180000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250308T180000
DTSTAMP:20260411T140328
CREATED:20250115T120849Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250115T120849Z
UID:10707-1741456800-1741456800@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:Second Czech-Slovak ball
DESCRIPTION:Following a successful first year\, we invite you once again to a new edition of the traditional Czech-Slovak ball! \nWhat to Expect: A four-course dinner + welcome drink upon arrival Live performance by the folk band Morena Exciting tombola prizes Music and entertainment hosted by DJ Janci & Fero Dress Code: Black Tie \n Tickets: £50 per person see booking link below
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/second-czech-slovak-ball/
LOCATION:Bohemia House\, 74 West End Lane\, London\, NW6 2LX\, United Kingdom
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DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250307T193000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250307T213000
DTSTAMP:20260411T140328
CREATED:20241019T173204Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241019T174606Z
UID:10386-1741375800-1741383000@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:Czech Philharmonic: Shostakovich
DESCRIPTION:An orchestra blazing burnished colours\, rich string tone\, and boundless refinement\, the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Semyon Bychkov performs Dmitri Shostakovich’s Cello Concerto No 1 with Sheku Kanneh-Mason followed by Symphony No 5. \nShostakovich’s Cello Concerto No 1 holds a special place in Sheku Kanneh-Mason’s heart – with it he secured the title of BBC Young Musician of the Year 2016. His 2023 performance ‘had the feel of chamber music as if the strings were consoling a colleague who was sharing the depths of his\, and the music’s\, soul’ (Bachtrack). And ‘the players of the marvelous Czech Philharmonic bring the piece to life as few\, if any\, orchestras have before or since’ (Classics Today). \nThe ovation that greeted the 1937 premiere of Shostakovich’s Fifth Symphony lasted over an hour – perhaps fuelled by its agonisingly intense slow movement and the triumphal ending – though its deeper meaning is fraught with ambiguity. \n  \n  \n  \n 
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/czech-philharmonic-shostakovich/
LOCATION:Barbican Centre\, Silk Street\, London\, EC2Y 8DS\, United Kingdom
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DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250206T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250206T213000
DTSTAMP:20260411T140328
CREATED:20250109T125428Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250109T125428Z
UID:10675-1738868400-1738877400@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:Celebrating Jan Svěrák’s 60th
DESCRIPTION:In 1997\, Czech filmmaker Jan Svěrák and UK-based producer Eric Abraham captivated the world when their heartfelt masterpiece Kolya  won both the Academy Award and the Golden Globe for Best Foreign Language Film. Written by Jan’s father\, Zdeněk Svěrák\, Kolya became a landmark moment in their celebrated father-son collaboration. But Jan’s journey to Oscar glory began much earlier—with a Student Academy Award in 1988 for his inventive environmental mockumentary Oil Gobblers and the Oscar nomination for Elementary school in 1991. \nNow\, as Jan Svěrák celebrates his 60th birthday\, join us for a special double bill of Kolya and Oil Gobblers\, introduced by multi-award-winning producer Eric Abraham. Eric will share behind-the-scenes stories from their groundbreaking partnership\, which began with Kolya and continued with acclaimed films like Dark Blue World\, Kooky\, and Empties. Don’t miss this opportunity to revisit two extraordinary films and celebrate Jan’s birthday with us. \nOil Gobblers\nJan Svěrák\, Czechoslovakia 1988\, 22´\nCast: Emil Nedbal\, Lubomír Beneš\, Ivo Kašpar\, Jan Rokyta\, Jiří Němec \nIn 1987 northern Bohemia\, a team investigates “Petroleus Mostensis\,” a mythical creature devouring polyethylene in a toxic industrial wasteland. Blending satire and environmental critique\, Jan Svěrák’s student film spotlights Czechoslovakia’s ecological destruction. Amid humour and drama\, the mockumentary exposes the consequences of unchecked industrial exploitation. 60 \nKolya\nJan Svěrák\, Czech Republic\, 1996\, 105´\nCast: Zdeněk Svěrák\, Andrej Chalimon\, Libuse Safránková\, Ondrej Vetchý \n“Enchanting…Kolya deserves all its international success.” The Times \n“What makes “Kolya” special is the way it paints the details. Like the films of the Czech New Wave in the late 1960s\, it has a cheerful\, irreverent humour\, and an eye for the absurdities of human behaviour.” Roger Ebert \nOscar® Winner Best Foreign Film (1996). The middle-aged Czech cellist Josef Louka is a skirt-chasing bachelor\, who enjoys a lifestyle free of responsibilities. Strapped for cash he agrees to a marriage of convenience. But after his new bride skips town\, he is left to father her five-year-old Russian son\, Kolya. Neither could be more unhappy with their predicament\, especially since they don’t even speak the same language. But time and patience form an unbreakable bond between this unlikely father-son duo. \n\nAdmission: £7 (+ Eventbrite fee) see booking link below
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/celebrating-jan-sveraks-60th/
LOCATION:Czech Embassy cinema\, 26 Kensington Palace Gardens\, London\, W8 4QY
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Jan-Sverak.jpg
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DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250204T183000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250204T203000
DTSTAMP:20260411T140328
CREATED:20241126T102734Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250104T222703Z
UID:10529-1738693800-1738701000@www.bcsa.co.uk
SUMMARY:BCSA Quiz Night
DESCRIPTION:Did you know that 4th February is the Day of Czechs Abroad? To celebrate in style\, we are holding another BCSA Pub Quiz. \nThis is your chance to show off your knowledge of anything and everything British\, Czech and Slovak. Test yourself about how much you know about British\, Czech and Slovak connections at this unique quiz presented by the British Czech and Slovak Association (BCSA). \nGather you friends and join us for a fun evening and a friendly competition at Bohemia House in West Hampstead. Food and drinks are available for purchase. \nWest Hampstead has three stations served by the Jubilee line\, Overground and Thameslink. \nBCSA members and full time students: £3 \nNon-members £5 \nEventbrite fees will be added to the cost of your tickets at checkout. \nIf you book 2 or more tickets\, we will assume that everyone would like to sit at the same table\, i.e. be on the same team. \nIf you book a ticket for yourself only\, please let us know the name of the person you would like to be on the same team with. Alternatively\, you can tell us about your strengths in terms of your knowledge and we will team you up with a player with complementary expertise. \nWest Hampstead has three stations served by the Jubilee line\, Overground and Thameslink. \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.  \n 
URL:https://www.bcsa.co.uk/event/bcsa-quiz-night/
LOCATION:Bohemia House\, 74 West End Lane\, London\, NW6 2LX\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:BCSA Events
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