Fairfield University's Open VISIONS Forum to host member of the Royal Family | Press Releases

Image: Princess Kent Fairfield University's Open VISIONS Forum will launch its fifth season of issues, ideas and insights on Sunday, Sept. 23, at 3 p.m., when Her Royal Highness, Princess Michael of Kent, presents an illustrated slide lecture titled, "Royal Power - the Substance and the Show." The series, designed to challenge "the life of the mind," is an outreach program of the university's School of Continuing Education.

Princess Michael, the wife of the Queen of England's first cousin, is often seen presenting the winner's trophy at Wimbledon Tennis Tournament. Born in Bohemia, she is a descendant of ancient European aristocratic houses on both sides of her family. With so much history in her personal background, the princess was ideally suited to write two history books, both best-sellers, which were translated worldwide: Crowned in a Far Country: Eight Royal Brides and Cupid and the King: Five Royal Paramours.

It was the success of these two books that launched Princess Michael's lecture career. Invited first to speak to the French Institute, she then moved on to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City to sold-out seasons two years running. She returned there in 1999 to speak on "Madame de Pompadour: Mistress of Taste."

For several years, Her Royal Highness has undertaken a spring lecture tour for Sotheby's in various parts of the United States. She has also lectured throughout the nation for a variety of institutions, such as: the Versailles/Giverny Foundation in New York; the Folger Shakespeare Library and the National Gallery in Washington, D.C.; the Getty Museum in Los Angeles; and the Museum of Fine Arts in Houston.

Tickets are $15, with discounts available for seniors, students and groups. Open VISIONS Forum is generously supported by its sponsors and patrons. This lecture is sponsored in part by Winged Keel Group Financial Security Management and First Union National Bank, Virgin Atlantic and Brody, Wilkinson and Ober P.C. A post-lecture patron's reception will take place at a private residence. Those interested in becoming a patron should contact Kerry McManus in the office of Special Events at (203) 254-4000, ext. 2392. For tickets or more information call the box office at (203) 254-4010 or toll free at 1-877-ARTS-396.