Simon Callow, a revered actor, director, and author known for iconic roles in films like Four Weddings and a Funeral, shares his journey through creative highs and lows. He candidly reflects on a childhood rejection that shaped him, and the critical failure of a play he directed. Callow discusses the challenges of coming out in a conservative era and the importance of collaborative creativity in theater. He emphasizes the need for impactful acting that resonates with audiences, while also grappling with the weight of his artistic legacy.

Simon Callow, celebrated actor, director, and author, dives into the enchanting world of Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. He takes listeners on a festive journey through London, exploring the haunting duality of joy and fear in Scrooge's story. The discussion highlights the historical context of Dickens' work, the significance of memory, and the transformative power of compassion. Callow elaborates on Scrooge's redemption and the importance of empathy, examining how Dickens's tale shaped modern Christmas traditions and remains relevant today.

Join Simon Callow as he shares his infectious enthusiasm and profound knowledge of Charles Dickens in this conversation produced in partnership with Sotheby’s. As an acclaimed actor who has portrayed the author and written a biography about him, Callow is an authority on Dickens' eccentricities and literary genius. In conversation with novelist Kate Mosse and Sotheby's books specialist David Goldthorpe, he shares personal anecdotes and explores Dickens' transformative storytelling through key texts – including a fascinating handwritten reading text of David Copperfield featured in Sotheby’s upcoming auction – revealing how the great author has shaped his life and career.This event was recorded on 11 July 2023 as part of Sotheby’s Book Week, held to mark a series of sales taking place in London, Paris and New York from 4-20 July featuring literature, illustrations and musical manuscripts that span continents and centuries. The London auction will take place on Thursday 20 July. Please visit sothebys.com to find out more. This conversation was produced by Executive Producer Hannah Kaye and edited by Producer Catharine Hughes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices