Beyond the wise-cracking television persona: Clive James the songwriter.
Catching the Light explores a lesser-known side of Clive James.
With composer Pete Atkin, Clive created one of the most distinctive and unexpected bodies of songs of his generation — romantic, acutely observed and deeply personal.
Whether it’s a love song, a character study or a bittersweet observation on life and ambition, a little more of the real Clive emerges from each lyric. Although little heard today, these are songs you’ll wish you’d known sooner.
“Songs that are funny, sad, beautiful and true.” — Stephen Fry
Catching the Light is a cabaret-style show — part live music gig, part memoir — built around a personal selection of these songs. Even if you’ve never encountered Clive or Pete before, their songs feel like a friend opening up: sharing joys, regrets, frustrations and earthy observations of everyday life.
First performed at Greenwich Theatre, London, Catching the Light brings this more thoughtful, reflective side of Clive James to life in an intimate, story-led performance. Part live music and part memoir, the show combines a personal selection of James–Atkin songs with the story of the man behind the lyrics.
I perform the songs in a warm, lived-in baritone, accompanied by leading UK musical director Simon Wallace. His jazz-tinged arrangements give the show its distinctive sound, while his work with Pete Atkin brings a particular understanding of the James–Atkin repertoire.
Between songs, I trace Clive’s story — from a brash Australian “kid from Kogarah” arriving in 1960s Britain, to an international writer and broadcaster loved for his columns and programmes such as Clive James on Television.
The result is a compelling evening of song and story, whether you know Clive’s work well or are discovering it for the first time. At its heart is his unmatched gift for “turning a phrase until it catches the light.”
Compact and self-contained, Catching the Light is ideal for arts centres, cabaret rooms, small theatres, libraries, literary festivals and private events — anywhere audiences enjoy thoughtful, characterful songs in an intimate setting.
Watch the trailer
Clive James image: Shutterstock (Rex/ITV)
Tim Benton Sings 