August begins with five days of fun thanks to Summeropolis, the summer holiday celebration organised by Swansea’s Storyopolis project. From Mon 7 – Fri 11 Aug, there’s a workshop every day for any age of writer from 8-80, no matter their previous writing experience. Explore postcard fiction, rap and spoken word; become a time traveller or explorer; and just have fun with words, storytelling, and crafts each morning from 10.30-12.30 with a series of experienced writers and tutors. Entry to these events is free to boot. Pop along to Volcano Theatre for more info or to take part, or see www.storyopolis.co.uk for details.
From Fri 11 Aug, the Llangwm Literary Festival offers up three days full of literature, poetry, panel discussions, music, and (my favourite, after poetry of course) food and drink. Themes of the festival will include nature and natural navigation with Tristan Gooley, a celebration of India through literature, talks, music and curry to mark the India-UK Year of Culture. The festival runs until Sun 13 Aug. For more information see www.llangwmlitfest.co.uk. This is a bilingual event too.
For young people once again, on Wed 16 Aug, there will be a creative writing workshop with children’s author Eloise Williams. Suitable for young people aged 6-11, this is a free event, although tickets should be booked in advance online. Go to the Dylan Thomas Centre website (www.dylanthomas.com) for these, and be there on the day from 1-3pm for word-related hijinks.
Juke is a monthly themed poetry-and-whatever-else night that encourages the new and the experimental. Hosted by Renn Hubbuck-Melly, it’s based at Cardiff MADE Gallery in Roath (www.facebook.com/CardiffMADE). Normally taking place around the middle of the month, I’d strongly suggest following their Facebook page for details of the next event, which is normally on a Monday.
And finally, for this month, get yourself to the Imp (Imperial Hotel, Merthyr) for its regular open mic event with featured guest. This takes place on Thurs 31 Aug from 7.30pm, and the feature this time is poet Chris Torrance. Again, it is free, and ably hosted by fine poet Mike Jenkins.
So, still plenty to do over the summer, in terms of literary endeavour! Enjoy yerselves, and I will see you next time.
@mabjones