Coming soon

Talks, music, plays and more

Bringing a creative woman’s achievements back to life.

ABout

Canterbury’s who?

Aphra Behn, born Aphra Johnson in Harbledown, just outside Canterbury, in 1640. After her Canterbury childhood and youth, she became famous as the first professional woman writer in English.

In her own day, she was celebrated, author of

After her death, she disappeared from sight. Now, Canterbury’s Aphra Behn is working to bring her the fame she deserves, and restore her as a Daughter of Canterbury. Watch this page for our programme of events and all things Aphra.

Partners

Aphra Behn Sparkling Wine 2018

Why not try Barnsole Vinyard's Delicious Sparkling Wine

A classic method sparkling wine made from 90% Pinot Noir and 10% Chardonnay to make a crisp fruity wine with strawberry overlaying rich summer fruits and a hint of biscuit. This wine is matured in the bottle for 3 years prior to release.

The price includes a £6 donation to The Aphra Behn Society.

Upcoming events

Whether it’s music, drama, walking tours, or learning about the past that you enjoy, there will be something here for you.

Public reading of Aphra Behn’s play The City-Heiress (1682). St Peter’s Anglican church, Canterbury

The popular series of readings of plays by Canterbury playwrights continues with Behn’s delightfully frank political and social satire.

Aphra Behn wine, made by Kentish vineyard Barsole

Aphra Behn wine, made by Kentish vineyard Barsole, features at the Canterbury Wine Festival, Westgate Hall.

Canterbury’s Aphra Behn (1640-1689): Literature’s best kept secret

Aphra Behn Festival

A week-long public celebration of Behn, coinciding with an international conference Aphra Behn and her Restoration at the University of Kent which will attract over 150 visitors from a dozen different countries to Canterbury. Activities include a full-scale production of Behn’s The Amorous Prince by The Canterbury Players (performances in the Anselm Space, CCCU); Behn-themed walks; a 'Curating Aphra’ event and outreach activities at The Beaney; public lectures, and a production of Behn’s The Rover by students at the King’s School.

Performance of Behn’s second play, The Amorous Prince, at CCCU

Talk at the University of Kent, Templeman Library building, by sculptor Christine Charlesworth

Talk at the University of Kent, Templeman Library building, by Mel Evans

Talk at the University of Kent, Templeman Library Building, by Charlotte Cornell

Laying flowers on Aphra Behn’s grave in Westminster Abbey

Statue unveiling and celebration

The Behn statue – outcome of the successful A is for Aphra campaign – with associated events.

Heritage Open Day

Heritage Open Day event at Canterbury Cathedral Archives.

Coming soon

Talks, music, plays and more

ABout

Canterbury’s who?

Partners

Aphra Behn Sparkling Wine 2018

Why not try Barnsole Vinyard's Delicious Sparkling Wine

Upcoming events

Public reading of Aphra Behn’s play The City-Heiress (1682). St Peter’s Anglican church, Canterbury

Aphra Behn wine, made by Kentish vineyard Barsole

Canterbury’s Aphra Behn (1640-1689): Literature’s best kept secret

Aphra Behn Festival

Performance of Behn’s second play, The Amorous Prince, at CCCU

Talk at the University of Kent, Templeman Library building, by sculptor Christine Charlesworth

Talk at the University of Kent, Templeman Library building, by Mel Evans

Talk at the University of Kent, Templeman Library Building, by Charlotte Cornell

Laying flowers on Aphra Behn’s grave in Westminster Abbey

Statue unveiling and celebration

Heritage Open Day

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