NSS special Event: “The Last Priest”

You may have read about the upcoming production of The Last Priest at the Kings Head Theatre in Islington. The NSS has now negotiated a dedicated performance of the play for our members and supporters to be followed by a discussion featuring the actors, the writer and the producer of the play. It will be on Saturday afternoon, 23 June at 3pm (in order to give those outside London the opportunity to attend).

The Last Priest tells the story of Jean Meslier (1664-1729), a French Catholic priest and author of what is considered to be the first full-blooded atheistic testament. He was a little-known hero of the Enlightenment and instigator of the socialist ideals of the French revolution. This very human story follows Jean as he leads a dual existence, conforming by day to religious fundamentalism, and then, by night, passionately composing his secret legacy. Jean’s passion for truth, his stubborn conscience and his fear of discovery leading him to the cowardly betrayal of his own principles all make him a compelling character. His story has parallels to the religious unrest of today, placing this work at the heart of the current zeitgeist.

The director of the play, David Roylance comments: “Meslier did not believe a word of the book he preached from. He wrote his own book, a testament that he left us on his deathbed, having hastened his own death at 55, after finishing the work. His testament is a vicious attack on all forms of organised religion and the divine right of kings and aristocracy. By his own admission within the testament, Meslier was a coward. Since the punishment for atheism was burning alive at the stake, this is perhaps something we can understand.”

The play had rave reviews during its Edinburgh Festival run. This new production is an extended version of the Edinburgh production. The venue is the famous Kings Head Theatre is at 115 Upper Street, London N1 1QN.

Tickets for this extra special event – which will also give you the opportunity to socialise over a complimentary glass of wine with other NSS members – cost £15. Book you tickets today and avoid disappointment. Book with the Kings Head Box Office on 020 7226 1916 and mention that it is the NSS event on 23 June.

For any other information: please call our office (during business hours only) 020 7404 3126