Poets, scribes and would-be-authors from
our country (SA) districts take centre stage during the Open Microphone session at
the Schreiner: Karoo Writers Festival (Cradock, 9 – 11 August 2013).
“This is an invitation to writers from all
walks of life,” says Paul Walters, who chairs the organising committee. “We know
that countless South Africans are stringing words together in private or
longing to start writing their own stories. It can be a lonely business. The
festival offers a safe and friendly place to come out in the open; meet fellow
writers; share our experiences and our writings. And set up new support
networks.”
Prof Walters has helped generations of
Rhodes English students to find their own literary “voices”. He will referee
the lively open microphone session scheduled for Saturday 10 August. Each
participant gets 3 minutes to read or recite his or her own work.
Some of the words will bring a tear to the
eye, others will have you rolling in the aisle. Guitar-strumming poet/lyricist
Robert Pearce will open the session. Popular blogger, DomineeAttie van Wyk always entertains.
Zenobia Kock will present a passage from the moving book she wrote while she
was a pastorie-mama in Colesberg.Tarkastad
magistrate Jo Els will also take the microphone – poetry helped him overcome a
lifetime of stuttering.
Two learners from Cradock high schools will
also read. They are to be selected from the participants in a series of
multi-media outreach workshops co-ordinated by Upstart and the National English
Literary Museum.
These are just a few examples of the lively
cast for this “local writing goes live” show. To secure your slot, simply show
up on the day, or get in touch with the organisers (details below).
The Open Microphone provides a focus, but
the entire festival is a writer’s and reader’s indaba.
The action begins on Thursday (8 August) with
the traditional pilgrimage to the Schreiner Grave atop Buffelskop. There’s
nothing like a hike in the fresh air to bring down barriers and facilitate new
friendships.
In addition to other programme items, every
breakfast, tea, lunch and supper offers fresh opportunities to mix and interact
with other writers and readers.
For more programme info, see the facebookpageSchreiner:
Karoo Writers Festival. To book and find out about special festival
packages, write to Lisa info@tuishuise.co.zaor
ring 082 410 5596 or Rikainfo@alberthouse.co.za
or ring 082 888 8953.
2 comments:
I am sure Olive Schreiner would have loved the article. Thanks! Nosizwe
Hi Raselebeli,
Thanks for your blog, there is surely a need to raise awareness around the fantastic literary works Africa can offer! Would you consider reviewing Legson Kayira's republished memoirs "I will try"? If so, please contact me benedek@rivoniamediagroup.com
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