Author of ‘lad lit’ kicks off festival
Date published: 24 September 2008
POETRY, plays, stories and artwork will all take centre stage during the Oldham Literature Festival.
Nationally acclaimed authors Stella Duffy and Mike Gayle will join talented local writers and performers for a month of readings and workshops at libraries across the borough.
And book worms can get involved by performing their favourite pieces of poetry, writing plays and creating artwork.
The festival kicks off in style at Chadderton Library, on October 2, with a visit from Mike Gayle — the founding father of “lad lit” — who is famous for novels “My Legendary Girlfriend” and “Mr Commitment”.
He will be reading from his new book, “The Life and Soul of the Party”.
On October 8, Uppermill Library plays host to novelist and crime writer Stella Duffy, who will be discussing her varied work and divulging her literary inspirations as well as reading from her latest book, “The Room of Lost Things”.
October is Black History Month and the event will be marked with a Caribbean cocktail night combining the words of Julian Daniel and the sounds of the Blue Bells Steel Band at Oldham Library, on October 16.
Budding stage and screenwriters can enjoy a playwriting workshop at the Oldham Coliseum, hosted by renowned writer Amanda Whittington, on October 25.
Writer Anne Caldwell and poet River Wolton team up to present a workshop to help you explore your own personal histories through writing.
Some Girls’ Mothers sees the pair host a creative afternoon open to experienced and new writers alike.
Other events include a text craft workshop at Fitton Hill Library on October 4, an open mic night at Oldham Library on October 9 and readers night at Oldham Library on October 23.
The festival will close with a family Hallowe’en party at Oldham Library, on October 31, and revellers are invited to don their creepiest clothes and join in the fun.
For more information pick up a copy of the Oldham Literature Festival 2008 brochure from libraries, arts venues and Tourist Information Centres across the borough.
You can also call 0161-770 8016, or visit www.oldham.gov.uk/libraries
