Royal Institution Christmas Special - A chemical History of the candle.

Join the Ri Demo team and Innovator in Residence David Ricketts, as they reimagine the Faraday classic Christmas Lecture - A chemical History of the candle. Originally delivered by Faraday in a series of 6 lectures, the chemical history was the most popular Christmas lecture Faraday gave, with over 700 people in attendance when he last delivered it in 1861. The RI demo team takes a modern interpretation of Faraday’s original lecture and demonstration, to deliver Faradays’ original series into a single lecture. They have curated an amazing array of demos to teach the physics and chemistry of the simple candle, of the physical world and life.

This one-night-only performance will combine the historical feel and vibe of the Ri as it was in 1861 with modern science concepts and new demonstrations.

The lecture will include many loud noises, bright lights and surprises…oh, and several very large fires!

Event type

This is a theatre and livestream event for a family audience, where the speakers and audience in our Theatre are joined by our audience online.

By booking to attend events at the Royal Institution, you confirm that you have read and accept the Ri’s event terms and conditions. You also agree to abide by our code of conduct, and help to create a great experience for yourself and your fellow participants.

About David Ricketts

Prof David Ricketts is an Innovation Fellow in the Technology and Entrepreneurship Centre at Harvard University. He works with organisations around the globe, such as Mastercard, Ubisoft, Disney, General Motors, Dell and Ferarri to accelerate innovation.

David is also an accomplished academic, having his work appear twice in Nature as well as other distinguished publications and books. He is recipient of the National Science Foundation (US) CAREER award and the DARPA Young Faculty Award for his work on nano-electromagnetic devices. His innovations include a re-programmable, self-assembling matter, an American football tracking for sports visualisation with Disney/ESPN, and an advanced wireless power systems for next-generation cars with General Motors Research.