Crime Series Novelist Headlines Penzance LitFest Line-Up: A Literary Extravaganza Awaits

The Penzance LitFest, set to run from 2nd to 6th July 2024, has unveiled an impressive line-up featuring both local and national literary stars.

This year’s festival promises a rich blend of author talks, writing workshops, and unique events sure to captivate attendees.

Star-Studded Line-Up

Among the notable attendees is crime novelist Ann Cleeves, widely recognised for her BBC and ITV series Shetland and Vera. Ann will discuss her latest novel, The Raging Storm, part of her Two Rivers Series. This book is set on the north Devon coast and features Detective Inspector Matthew Venn.

Another highlight is bestselling author Louise Doughty, known for her psychological thrillers Apple Tree Yard and Platform Seven. Louise will present her latest thriller, A Bird in Winter, to eager readers.

Local literary talent will also be showcased, with poet Katrina Naomi drawing inspiration from the Penzance swimming spot, Battery Rocks, for her upcoming collection. Katrina will be in conversation with fellow local writer Jane Pugh. Additionally, Mousehole-based novelist Jane Johnson will introduce her latest work, The Black Crescent, set in 1950s Morocco.

Musical and Cultural Delights

The festival will also feature performances by leading folk musicians Jim Causley and Miranda Sykes. They will join forces with narrator John Palmer to celebrate the life and work of Victorian superstar Sabine Baring-Gould in “Ghosts, Werewolves and Countryfolk.”

Notable Conversations and Unique Experiences

Neel Mukherjee, author of the highly acclaimed novel Choice, will engage in a conversation with Patrick Gale. Festival-goers can also look forward to an appearance by Australia’s Queen of Fairy Tales, Kate Forsyth, who will invite the audience into a world of dark enchantment.

In a festival first, Tim Hubbard, author of Secret Gardens of Cornwall, will discuss gardening with a member of the Minack Theatre’s gardening team, followed by a plant sale.

Environmental Focus

A significant addition this year is the Environmental Exchange, a series of events dedicated to the natural world and the challenges it faces. Writers, filmmakers, campaigners, and academics will contribute to this vital conversation, reflecting on current realities and proposing future solutions.

Over 40 Author Talks and Workshops

The Penzance LitFest will feature over 40 author talks and writing workshops, including the return of the popular LitFest quiz.

Festival Patron’s Remarks

Patrick Gale, the festival’s Patron, praised the unique atmosphere of Penzance LitFest, attributing it to the lovely venues and the high number of creative individuals in the audience. He highlighted Penzance as a delightful place that puts authors in a great mood, enhancing their stage presence.

Support from Penzance Council

The LitFest has received a grant from Penzance Council, for which the festival organisers are grateful. Mayor of Penzance, Cllr Stephen Reynolds, emphasised the importance of literature to the cultural heritage of Penzance and commended the festival for nurturing aspiring writers through its workshops and talks.

Ticket Information

Tickets can be purchased at pzlitfest.co.uk, by phone on 01736 363545, or in person from the Acorn Theatre box office in Parade Street, Penzance. Free copies of the printed programme are available at libraries, bookshops, cafes, and galleries throughout West Cornwall.

The Penzance LitFest promises to be an unmissable event for literary enthusiasts, offering a diverse and enriching experience in the heart of West Cornwall.