THE 14th edition of the annual Time of the Writer Festival looks set to leave an indelible mark on debating circles.
Unfolding under the theme of Freedom of Expression, the event will see 21 prominent writers from a dozen countries engage each other as well as the public during the six-day event.
Hosted by the Centre for Creative Arts (University of KwaZulu-Natal), this year’s fest has included on its to-tackle list burning issues around freedom of expression as they relate to South Africa, Egypt, Libya and a number of other countries.
Setting the tone for this will be the event’s opening night keynote address – to be delivered by retired Constitutional Court judge, writer and cultural activist, Albie Sachs.
Peter Rorvi of the Centre for Creative Arts said the theme presented the opportunity for writers to talk about creative and artistic factors and the restraining forces that inhibit their writing.
“The media tribunal, the Protection of Information Act that is going through parliament… these things and what we are witnessing in the wave of revolution through North Africa and the Middle East make this an appropriate theme,” he said.
The hallmark of this event is the diversity of writers who come to Durban and always, in their presentations, talks and workshops, attempt to address what their social and political responsibilities as writers are.
“There is an exciting range of voices coming through this year. For example, blogging has become a form of writing in itself and has changed the way we write.
“These forms of new media will be discussed by Sahar El Mougy of Egypt – who is a writer and a blogger – and Azad Essa of South Africa,who has won an award for his blog. We’ve titled their session Writing Revolution,” explained Rorvi.
The main programme will take place over six days at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre, with the balance of the programme happening around the city.
“Between 2 000 and 3 000 pupils will be reached through schools’ programmes. We will also be launching books and literary works over the course of the event.
“The point of the programme is to take literature out of the bedroom, or the study, and put it on a live platform for interaction between the writers and the public,” said Rorvi.
l Tickets for the Time of the Writer Festival: R25, R10 for students with a student card, through Computicket or at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre from 6.30pm. Full programme details and more information at www.cca.ukzn.ac.za, or call 031 260 2506/1816.