Beyond the runway: The re-enchantment of the adult mind

Join us for an enchantingly eccentric high tea and a panel discussion curated by Verb Wellington on why, like Vivienne Westwood, we should read children’s books.

“Kids! Never become complacent” wrote Vivienne Westwood in her introduction to the 150th edition of Alice in Wonderland: a cry for our age of climate crisis, the rise of the far right, and the decimation of the humanities. Vivenne Westwood understood the power of Lewis’ creation and the magic of children’s literature. But how are we, adults at large, modelling enchantment, and engagement, to the generations in our wake? Have we forgotten how to be Alice? In this event we discuss the impact of Alice and the value of children’s literature to the adult mind and imagination.

Join Lauren Keenan (Te Āti Awa ki Taranaki), children's writer and historian and Julia Marshall, founder of Gecko Press, specialists in publishing ‘curiously good children's books’ in conversation with Jessie Bray Sharpin, librarian, book critic, and avid reader of children's books. Introduced by Claire Mabey of Verb, Wellington.

Included: Enjoy a special serving of The Rebels’ Tea Party, with hot beverages. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are available to purchase.