BBC man and author John Simpson at a book signing (pic: Phil Guest)
THE 12th LOWDHAM Book Festival has an extended programme, just announced, which brings a wide range of authors and performers to our area. Held over a month, from 14 June to 14 July 2011, most events are clustered in the two weeks up to the end of June. Although centred on Lowdham, the festival encompasses Woodborough, Caythorpe, and even the distant village of Nottingham in its programme.
Altogether more than 40 named individuals or groups and over 40 events will make up the festival. For full details and bookings see the Lowdham Book Festival website. Box office opens on 23 May 2011 for events requiring tickets – although some (everything on Saturday 25 June) are free and require no tickets.
Among the well-known names taking part are the BBC world affairs editor John Simpson, travel writer Sara Wheeler, gardening writer Alys Fowler, and crime novelist Jasper Fforde.
In addition to the literary offerings, Lowdham Book Festival 2011 offers a variety of theatrical and musical entertainments. These include an evening of chat and music from Barbara Dickson among a number of other musical events from Warthog Promotions, and the premiere of Catfoot Theatre’s brand new adaptation of the popular children’s book Cowboy Baby.
The festival programme also includes an evening of guided Buddhist meditation, the book launch of The Wordsmith’s Tale by Stephen Edden, an evening of particular interest to cricket fans, and the announcement of the first East Midlands Book Award winners.