Local News

New Literary Festival for Grenada

St. George’s, October 11, 2010 (GIS) – The cultural landscape in Grenada is about to be changed in a very profound way. A niche is being established for spoken word, penmanship and the dramatic arts, giving them their own cultural space on the national calendar of events.

The Grenada government, through the Department of Culture, is about to launch two new festivals, which it believes will have mass appeal to Grenadians and visitors alike.

The first of the two – The Spice Word Literary Festival – will feature the works of Grenadian authors, poets and artists. The theme is, “Feel the Rhythm in the Words.’’

“It is open to all Grenadian writers of every genre,’’ said Sen. Arley Gill, Junior Minister of Information and Culture. It is estimated that more than 80 Grenadians have had their works published and available in libraries and bookstores at home and abroad.

At the inaugural Literary Festival, to be held from October 20 to 24, organisers will honour three Grenada-born authors: Clyde Belfon, David Omawale Franklyn and Merle Collins. Two special guests – Jamaican poet Mutabaruka and Trinidad Rapso artiste, Brother Resistance –have been invited as special guests.

The Literary Festival is a multi-formatted event that will utilise various venues across the country. For example, there will bereadings, an exhibition and a book sale at the Esplanade Mall from October 20 – 23.

Other components include a “Bonfire and Story Telling’’ evening on October 22 at Bathway, St. Patrick, and a “Slam Poetry’’ competition on October 23 in Heroes’ Square, Victoria, St. Mark.

The Camerhogne Folk Festival – from December 3 to 5 – will involve elements such as drama, dance, song, craft and the Shakespeare Mas’ of Carriacou.

The Camerhogne Festival will honour well-known Grenadian folklorist, Thelma Phillip, popularly known as “Auntie Tek.’’

“She’ll be recognised as the ‘Caribbean Golden Lady of Storytelling,’’’ said Sen. Gill.

The Spice World Literary Festival and the Camerhogne Folk Festival are
expected to be held annually.

Photos: Author Merle Collins

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