The Wider Earth – the critically acclaimed drama about the young Charles Darwin’s expedition on HMS Beagle playing at the custom-built theatre in the Jerwood Gallery at London’s Natural History Museum until 24 February – will hold a special VIP Gala Night on 12 February 2019. The gala, hosted by Julia Bradbury, and in the presence of HRH the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, will be held to commemorate Charles Darwin’s 210th birthday, and will support The Queen’s Commonwealth Trust and the production’s official charitable partner The Queen’s Commonwealth Canopy.
Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Sussex will attend the gala performance in the Duke’s official capacity of President of The Queen’s Commonwealth Trust.
Trish Wadley, on behalf of the producers of The Wider Earth, said, “as an Australian production with a global view, we are thrilled to support a Commonwealth initiative that encourages multiple nations to join together and create a meaningful green footprint on the planet for future generations.”
Sir Michael Dixon, Director of the Natural History Museum, said, “We are delighted to welcome TRH the Duke and Duchess of Sussex into the Museum to mark the 210th birthday of Charles Darwin – and to celebrate the brilliant work of The Queen’s Commonwealth Trust and The Queen’s Commonwealth Canopy. As a charity ourselves, the Museum acts to inspire the next generation to protect the natural world. Over 150 years since Darwin began working with the Museum’s Collection, it remains home to many of the specimens collected on his expeditions. Today, our 350 scientists continue to use the Collection, and Darwin’s scientific legacy, as we seek solutions to the major issues facing the planet today.”
