Kenneth Williams: A Centenary Celebration

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Catch a celebration of much-loved comedy actor Kenneth Williams

2026 is the centenary year of one of Britain’s most distinctive and beloved performers. Kenneth Williams: A Centenary Celebration is at Norden Farm Centre for the Arts on Wednesday 25 November at 7.30pm. Tickets are £19 (plus a £1.90 per transaction booking fee).

To mark the centenary year of the great Kenneth Williams, join Simon Cartwright, Russell Davies, Mark Farrelly and Madeline Smith for an unforgettable journey through Kenneth’s extraordinary life.

The performance showcases readings of scenes and sketches from his most iconic work, alongside moving and revealing extracts from his private diaries which will be shared onstage for the very first time.

Kenneth Williams was born in February 1926 and died in April 1988. He was best known for his comedy roles and in later life as a raconteur and diarist. He was one of the main cast in 26 of the 31 Carry On films and appeared in many British television programmes and radio comedies. He was also a panellist on BBC Radio 4’s comedy panel show Just a Minute from its second series in 1968 until his death 20 years later.

Kenneth Williams was fondly regarded in the entertainment industry. In his private life, however, he suffered from depression. He kept a series of diaries throughout his life that achieved posthumous acclaim.

By turns hilarious and deeply poignant, this celebration pays tribute to the wit and brilliance of a true national treasure. There will also be a Q&A with the cast, and a chance to share your memories of Kenneth.

Simon Cartwright performed on Bob Says Opportunity Knocks (BBC 1), Howerd’s End (national tour) and is currently playing Bob Monkhouse in The Last Laugh (West End, off Broadway and national tour).

Russell Davies is a prolific broadcaster and journalist who edited Kenneth Williams’ diaries and letters. He has award-winning work on BBC Radio 2 and 4 and has numerous programmes on jazz, literature and the history of radio comedy.

Mark Farrelley has had West End roles, including Who’s Afraid of Virgina Woolf and he wrote and appeared in Howerd’s End alongside Simon Cartwright.

Madeline Smith has extensive credits in TV, film and theatre, including roles in three legendary film franchises: Hammer (Taste the Blood of Dracula), Carry on Matron and James Bond Live and Let Die. She has worked with talents as diverse as Frankie Howerd and Alec Guinness and is still a much in-demand performer.