Melbourne’s annual celebration for writers, readers and thinkers begins another chapter this month beginning on the 22nd and closing on the 1st of September. The events over these eleven days range from keynote talks from some of the world’s most brilliant literary minds, musical performances, master classes, and sexposé’s from comedic talents. Because the festival boasts such a wide array, it can be difficult to choose between what’s good and what’s better, so we did it for you. You’re welcome.
Keynote Address: Boris Johnson
22 August, 6:30 pm
Melbourne Town Hall
Boris Johnson, Mayor of London, opens the festival as the first keynote speaker. Known for his intellect and wit, the influential historian and politician talks about his literary influences and the power of the word. This is a rare occasion to probe the mind of a man who’s as colourful as he is controversial.
The Art of Travel Writing
31 August 12:00 pm
The Wheeler Centre
Claire Scobie (The Pagoda Tree) and Andrew Mueller (I Wouldn’t Start From Here) earn their keep by travelling around the world and sharing their experiences. Doesn’t sound too shabby, huh? During this 90 minute seminar they will tell you how they did it, and delve into travel writing’s journalistic and story telling aspects.
Andrew O’Hagan Master Class: The Essay
30 August 10:00 AM
The Wheeler Centre – Workshop Space
Author, prize winner, and contributing editor of the London Review of Books, Andrew O’Hagan, is going to supply you with the ins and outs of essay writing so you can finally do them properly. This master class will provide the finest tips from the finest house of essay writing, a style which is flourishing in the digital age.
Liner Notes
23 Aug 9:00 PM
Regal Ballroom
The Door’s Classic album L.A. Woman is a literary tribute to the band and Jim Morrison who, before singing was reciting poetry in public before other band members discovered him. A live band and Missy Higgins will be there, you should too.
Keynote: Tavi’s World
23 August 6:00 PM
Athenaeum Theatre
Tavi Gevinson is the editor of Rookie Magazine and has attracted attention for her own brand of feminism. She is also 17. This talk will cover teenagers finding their voice, Women ruling the world and how on earth she balances writing, blogging and maintaining Rookie Magazine while still going to school. For those of you with your finger on the cultural pulse, this event is not to be missed.
News News
30, 31 August between 10 AM and 2:30 PM
Acmi Cube and The Wheeler Centre
With more than a dozen events, News News will be holding talks and seminars on the form of writing digested by the public. Topics range from media entrepreneurs, women in the media, election reporting, and whether the media is making us stupid.
Leave a Reply