Authors, poets and performers are being urged to take part in a public meeting to help shape Wolverhampton's first ever literary festival.

Organisers want people and community groups to collaborate on the festival and suggest events which could run alongside the main programme.

The Wolverhampton Original Literature Festival, being hosted by the City of Wolverhampton Council from January 27 to 29, 2017, will celebrate the written and spoken word, as well as showcase local authors, poets and spoken word performers.

Readings, poetry slams, theatrical performances, community events, workshops, readers' groups, educational events and tutorials are all in the pipeline.

Groups and individuals keen to take part in the festival in some way are invited to a public meeting at Wolverhampton Art Gallery, in Lichfield Street, on Thursday 7 July from 6.30pm to 8.15pm.

Councillor John Reynolds, the City of Wolverhampton Council's Cabinet Member for City Economy, said: "We hope the festival will be a collaboration across communities but to make that happen we need to hear from people and groups who want to get involved with events that could run alongside the main 3 day programme.

"We are also keen to hear from prospective volunteers as well as venues interested in hosting events as part of the planned festival."

Anyone who wants to take part, or wants to get involved, but can't make Thursday's meeting is asked to please email phil@wolvescivic.co.uk or call 01902 556707 to find out more.

  • released: Thursday 30 June, 2016