We regret to inform you that this talk has been cancelled.

We are doing our utmost to support the national effort in reducing the spread of coronavirus and the health and well-being of all our visitors, staff members and visiting performers is our number one priority.

Ticket holders are covered for the full value of their tickets and will be contacted shortly. Thank you for your continued support and we look forward to welcoming you on future occasions.

Stories of the Anglo-Zulu war have endured and enchanted for almost a century and a half. The famous battles of Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift have captured the interests and imaginations of countless people for generations, as they did in Victorian Britain.

The epic of Isandlwana was a battle which shook imperial Britain to its core and questioned the illusion of European superiority. How did a force, armed largely with spears and shields, overcome a modern British army?

Presented by Douglas Rattray, son of the late David Rattray, this talk will shed light on how the Zulu forces, under the command of Ntshingwayo kaMahole Khoza, achieved one of the greatest victories in the history of the Zulu nation and one of the biggest defeats in British military history.

Meet the Speaker: Douglas Rattray

Douglas Rattray, of Fugitives’ Drift Lodge near the Anglo-Zulu war battlefields in South Africa, continues the legacy of his famous late father, David. Anyone who has heard Douglas speak on the battlefields of Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift will testify to his knowledge, passion and wonderful story-telling abilities. He brings the events of 22 January 1879 to life in a way bound to enthral and captivate.

Post-event:

The talk will end at around 8:40pm. Afterwards, join Douglas and his family in one of the foyer bars, where there will be the opportunity to ask any questions you may have.