Lemn Sissay reads poem at friend’s celebration event
Poet Lemn Sissay read from his 2013 collection at a filmed tribute marking Celebration Day. The short film will appear on The Independent ahead of the May 25 observance.
morningstaronline.co.ukPoet and broadcaster Lemn Sissay read a poem from his 2013 collection Let the Light Pour In at Dr Johnson’s House in London. The reading honored his friend Sarah Weir, who died of cancer and had requested the poem be read at her celebration. Sissay said Weir asked her partner to have the poem read as if from her. The partner then asked Sissay to perform the reading.
Post by @Independent on X
Film and series details The short film was directed by Oliver Parker.
It forms part of a series curated by Allie Esiri to mark Celebration Day, a nationwide observance on Monday 25 May that encourages people to remember those who have shaped their lives. The films will be published exclusively on The Independent in the days leading up to the date.
Key Facts
Story Timeline
5 events- 2012
Lemn Sissay worked with Sarah Weir as a poet for the London Olympics.
1 source@Independent - 2013
Lemn Sissay published the collection Let the Light Pour In.
1 source@Independent - Before 2026-05-23
Sarah Weir died of cancer.
1 source@Independent - 2026-05-23
Lemn Sissay filmed the reading at Dr Johnson’s House for Celebration Day.
1 source@Independent - 2026-05-25
Celebration Day observance takes place across the United Kingdom.
1 source@Independent
Potential Impact
- 01
The films will be available on The Independent before Celebration Day.
- 02
Viewers may use the recordings during personal or public remembrances on 25 May.
Transparency Panel
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