Bookmark Festival promises lots of activities

Date published: 27 March 2018


Radio personality Simon Mayo will close the show as Oldham’s annual Bookmark Festival returns for a long weekend of book-related fun.

There’s a whole host of fun-filled events and activities at Oldham Library next month, when you can expect returning popular guests, new literary voices and familiar favourites.

Taking place between April 20-24, Bookmark Festival is a way of introducing residents to just a small part of what Oldham’s libraries have to offer and to support people to develop a love of books.

Festival highlights include the ‘A Life of Crime’ writing workshop on April 20, followed by an author panel where Mandasue Heller, David Mark and Jane McNulty discuss the dark streets that ultimately became the setting for their crime thrillers.

For a lighter venture into the world of crime ‘Austentatious’ - a Jane Austen-themed murder mystery party - will be taking place on World Book Night (April 23).

If afternoon tea and romance are more your style, join author Milly Johnson in the picturesque Alexandra Park conservatory for an afternoon in beautiful surroundings on April 22.

On Saturday, April 21, Oldham Library will host a packed family day, suitable for all ages.

There will be an interactive poetry performance and workshop with Matt Goodfellow, followed by live drawing fun and activities with illustrator Nick East.

James Bishop takes centre stage in the afternoon to save the world with Iguana Boy for an exciting hour of storytelling fun the day will be rounded off with ‘Bookish’ – the comedy show where you choose which titles will be performed live.

Returning fans’ favourite and CBBC TV presenter, Katie Thistleton is back to talk about mental health and her new book ‘Dear Katie: Real Problems, Real Advice’ on April 23.

On April 24, the festival ends on a high with award-winning and popular radio presenter Mayo in conversation with ITV’s Caroline Whitmore.

Sheena Macfarlane, Head of Heritage, Libraries and Arts at Oldham Council, said: “Bookmark Festival grows from strength to strength every year and again we’ve been able to assemble a first rate line up that has something for everyone.

“I hope that everyone enjoys the festival and by joining in, festival-goers will discover the wide range of services, activities and information that libraries offer under one roof.”

For all dates, times and information on how to book tickets, visit: www.oldham.gov.uk/bookmark 

Children under 12 months are free and accompanying adults must book a ticket to attend family events.