featuring

29th September - 8th October

www.everybodysreading.org.uk
and many, many more

John Hegley

Neil Innes

Pauline Black

Foreword WiT
Welcome to the 3rd year of the Everybody's Reading Festival! This years festival will run from 29th September 8th October 2012 and will take place all across Leicester City. There are a vast range of events and we are sure you will nd something to tickle your fancy! However, before we get started here are a few words about our sponsors..... Whatever it Takes...to get every child in Leicester reading. Whatever it Takes is a long-term ambitious attempt to raise the pro le of reading and is under-pinned by Leicesters reading pledge we will do whatever it takes to get every child in Leicester reading' The initiative is made up of a diverse set of projects and events, which range from grants to support exciting and innovative work within schools to author workshops for over 4000 children. The initiative is chaired by Liz Warren (Strategic Lead for City Primary Heads) and Bill Morris (Director of Education in Partnership) and works in partnership with organisations across the city. Co chair Bill Morris says the initiative is bigger than just one organisation and to succeed we will continue to need the support from the entire community of Leicester. We are proud to support the Everybodys Reading Festival and we are sure this year will be the most exciting of all! For more information about Whatever it Takes visit www.whatever-it-takes.org.uk or contact Ellen.Lee@sdsa.net.

With thanks:
The festival is also brought to you by the National Union of Teachers, Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust, WORD! Leicester City Council and School Development Support Agency. Thanks to the continued support from our patron and friends Sir Peter Soulsby, Sue Townsend, Bali Rai and our appreciation to all at Leicester City Libraries and Writing East Midlands.

Lets get started...

Whether you have a secret love of poetry or want to re-live the old classics of Roald Dahl or even fancy sneaking a peek at the real life telling of the 3 little pigs...there is something for EVERYBODY! So, we suggest you take a break, sit down with this Festival Guide and get reading! If you see something you like, let us know what you thought by tweeting us @ERfestival2012 or visiting our website www.everybodysreading.org You will nd the events listed in the following pages then have a look at the map & venue list on page 24 and 25 to nd out where to go and how to book tickets or get in touch.

Prepare yourself for the festival with....

Monday 24th September
AN EVENING WITH BESTSELLING CRIME WRITERS MARK BILLINGHAM & MARTYN WAITES
What does it take to write a top 10 crime novel? Come along and nd out! Top crime writers Mark Billingham and Martyn Waites will be talking about the business of crime writing. Mark has written for TV and lm. He has also written a number of articles and essays about writing in general and crime ction in particular. An adaptation of In The Dark is currently in development at the BBC. Martyn has been a professional actor appearing in series such as Inspector Morse and The Bill. He then turned to ctional crime and is now the author of nine novels including Mary's Prayer, Little Triggers, Candleland, White Riot and Speak No Evil. WHERE: Central Library, Bishop Street, TIMES: 6.30 - 8.00pm INFORMATION: Tickets are 3/2 for library members 0116 299 5401 or email central-library@leicester.gov.uk.

Wednesday 26th September Saturday 6th October

THE BEAUTIFUL SCRIPT EXHIBITION
A reading themed exhibition of artwork, curated by Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust, supported by BrightSparks: Arts in Mental Health Group celebrating World Mental Health Month & featuring work created during 'Everybody's Reading Storycafes' at Embrace Arts and Glenfield Hospital as well as work drawn from mental health service user artists across Leicester & Leicestershire. WHERE: Pedestrian Gallery TIMES: Monday to Saturday, closed Sunday, 9.00am - 5.30pm INFORMATION: Free entry, all welcome opens September 26th.

Thursday 27th September

THE MASS MEDIA AS A SOURCE OF INSPIRATION FOR POETRY AND ART
Led by curator, Dr Magnus Gestsson PhD and poet, Jonathan Swift (Jo Twist). Following presentations and discussion, participant will produce poetry and collage exploring politics and products, freedom and people. Please bring copies of The Guardian, The Sun and Leicester Mercury, dating from the day before and scissors, pens, notebooks and felt tips. Other materials will be provided. WHERE: Central Library, Bishop Street, The Annex TIMES: 27 September 11:00am - 4.30pm INFORMATION: Free but advance booking essential, email: gallerigestur@gmail.com Work created in the session will be exhibited in Galler Gestur & toured throughout the festival.

Saturday 29th September

THREE LITTLE PIGS
Come and join us at Gorse Hill City Farm for our Three Little Pigs workshop. Read the story together and then work as a team to build the pigs houses of straw, wood and brick. Can you build them strong enough to stop the wolf blowing them down? Then enjoy the rest of the day with the farm animals and the picnic/play area! WHERE: Gorse Hill City Farm TIMES: 10.00am - 4.00pm INFORMATION: Tickets 1.00 per child for the Three Little Pigs activity and normal admission charges to the farm apply. www.gorsehillcityfarm.org.uk A free farm finger puppet will be given to each child attending the activity.

READING WITH DAD

A free, informal, friendly opportunity for dads to spend some time reading with their children. We then hope to set aside some space every week for dads to read with their children in a supportive environment. WHERE: The BRITE Centre TIMES: 1.30 - 2.30pm INFORMATION: Free event, Just come along. All those taking part will receive a FREE book token and the chance to meet a local celebrity. Free refreshments will also be available.

FINDING NEVERLAND THE MUSICAL COMMUNITY READ

VOUCHER VOUCHER VOUCHER Would you like to read on stage at Curve? As part of The Everybodys Reading Festival this year we will be reading Peter Pan. Come and join us for a little bit of magic in Neverland as each night six different readers read to you. Why not bring your own copy and read along. email everybodysreading@sdsa.net WHERE: Curve Foyer Stage TIMES: 6.00 -7.00pm nightly from 29th September
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A FREE farm finger puppet will be given to each child attending the activity
PRESENT THIS VOUCHER TO RECEIVE YOUR FREE PUPPET

Saturday 29th September

INSTANT LOVE POETRY
You are invited on a date at the Ridiculously Romantic Restaurant of Lurrrrrve. Prepare to be romanced in this interactive, pop up comedy show thats full of surprises. Look out for the Ludicrous Lovers as they swoon and serenade you into a loved up frenzy. Bursts of lovely love poetry, sweet song and ripples of romance in an instant, unforgettable street performance. The Firm Handshakers are a comedy troupe fusing laughter with music, magic and a twist of the unexpected. WHERE: The Curve TIMES: From 5.00pm INFORMATION: Free, firmhandshakers@gmail.com

WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY

A celebration of the performance talent that exists within our mental health community, organised and promoted by Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust with the support of BrightSparks: Arts in Mental Health Group. This open mic show will feature creative writing work created during 'Everybody's Reading Storycafes' at Embrace Arts and Glenfield Hospital - alongside mental health service user singers, musicians, comics etc. based across Leicester and Leicestershire. There will be free food provided and a wonderful raffle WHERE: The Guildhall TIMES: 7.00 - 9.00pm INFORMATION: 3/1 Free for mental health service users family and friends. Book in advance at the Guildhall or pay on the door.

to levision I find te g. educatin be very e some Every tim he rns on t body tu er the oth , I go in set a nd read room a book ~ o Marx Grouch

Sunday 30th September

WRITTEN ON WATER, A CELEBRATION OF AYLESTONE MEADOWS
Aylestone Meadows is a scientifically important nature reserve and popular venue for families, dog walkers and cyclists. Many species of plant and wildlife live amongst the patchwork of flood meadows, woodland and wetlands - all within minutes of the City Centre. This event will bring writers, wildlife experts, artists and members of the community together to create a collection of words and pictures celebrating Aylestone Meadows. Share your words, stories and memories of this special place with our team of volunteer Word Rangers. Create your own poetry or prose. Everyone's words will go towards a new Written On Water website and anthology. Maybe you prefer to paint, sketch or photograph? Bring your oils or camera, wander and be inspired. Find out more about Written On Water at the Fruits of Nature fun day at the Meadows on 16th September, and also learn about the different produce available at this unique site. WHERE: Aylestone Meadows Nature Reserve TIMES: 10.00am - 4.00pm INFORMATION: Free event, just come along.

NEIL INNES - SHORT SONGS AND TALL STORIES

Best known for his collaborative work with Monty Python, the Bonzo Dog Doo Dah Band and the Rutles Neil Innes' shows for BBC2, The Innes Book of Records have become cult classics. Enjoy his solo show - wry, poignant, and humorous, spiced with anecdotes of Neils life and times in the worlds of media and show business. Neil will be performing recent material and brand new songs as well as favourites. WHERE: The Guildhall Box Office TIMES: 7.30 - 9.45pm INFORMATION: Tickets cost 12/10 Adult 18+, consent required for those age 16+.

Monday 1st October

READING THE BODY: A WOMAN ARRIVES IN THE 21ST CENTURY
From the male gaze to family politics, from drinking to shopping, poet and performer, Lydia Towsey examines the body from a variety of perspectives and re ects on the position of women today. Featuring musician Corey Mwamba, dancer, Louise Katerega plus vocals & visuals. Compered by Alison Dunne and accompanied by the of cial opening of the Reading the Body: Exhibition WHERE: The Y Theatre TIMES: 7.00pm INFORMATION: Tickets available from The Y Theatre Box Of ce. Ticket holders are invited to the opening of the Reading the Body exhibition Tickets 8/6

READING THE BODY: EXHIBITION

An exhibition created by Scott Bridgwood This new show will examine the body from the social and political perspectives, to the sartorial and the animal and explore the themes and content of Reading the Body: A Woman Arrives in the 21st Century'. Scott Bridgwood is a gurative painter. He graduated from Chelsea Art College in Fine Art Painting in 1991. He has exhibited and taught in London, Rome, and currently teaches life drawing at Embrace Arts and Rawlins College. www.scottbridgwood.daportfolio.com WHERE: The Y Theatre WHEN: 1st - 31st October. INFORMATION: Contact venue for opening times. Exhibition preview: prior to the event above.

READING THE BODY, ART WORKSHOP

Using a life model, this life drawing & writing class with Lydia Towsey & Scott Bridgwood will examine the female form from the physical and aesthetic, to the personal and political. How is the female body represented, depicted and understood? Poses, from the passive to the sensual, will allow us to examine or read the body through a process of writing and drawing. All abilities welcome, materials provided. WHERE: The Y Theatre TIMES: 2.00 - 5.00pm INFORMATION: Tickets 10 16 + (Parental Guidance, contains nudity)
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Books are a uniquely portable magic ~ Stephen King

Monday 1st October

YOUNG ADULTS DAY
A morning of writing workshops with Alex Wheatle, Alan Gibbons and Jess Green. An afternoon of discussion and performance. Alex is a brilliant writer of urban fiction and an inspiring workshop leader. Jess is a spoken word artist and Alan is a great writer of teen fiction. WHERE: Leicester Central Library, Bishop Street, Bishop Street TIMES: 10.00am 3.00pm INFORMATION: Free event being offered directly to Leicester Schools and colleges for students in Years 8 to 13. Others wishing to attend contact Ian Burley by email: ian.burley@leicester.gov.uk

Tuesday 2nd October

IF IT ISNT EFFICIENT, IT WILL BE CHEAP
To mark the 150th anniversary of the government imposing payment by results for school teachers, we go back to 1862. Readings from Alices Adventures in Wonderland, Les Miserables and Christina Rossettis poems will intersperse performances by spoken word artist Jess Green and 2 live bands: Banjaxed and Coverlist. An unmissable night out with no payment by results required.

STORY CAFE WITH POET ROB GEE

The Story Caf at Beaumont Leys Library welcomes performance poet Rob Gee, for a high energy master class on how to write and perform poetry. Havent been to the Story Caf before? No problem everyone is welcome. "Had the audience in stitches ...a big thumbs-up!" BBC One of the most gifted and funny poets in Britain today Hammer & Tongue, UK WHERE: Beaumont Leys Library TIMES: 10.30am - 12.00pm INFORMATION: Free event, just come along.

WHERE: The Exchange Bar TIMES: 7.00 - 11.00pm INFORMATION: Free Entry all welcome but if you get a ticket in advance you will receive a free book on the night providing you email for one including the title of your selected book from the list below at least 14 days before the event to peter@leicesternut.org.uk or call NUT 0116 255 5311 or see the 1862 Facebook event. Great Expectations Emily Dickinsons Poems Les Miserables Christina Rossettis Poems Alice in Wonderland Sponsored by City of Leicester NUT

Until I feared I wou ld lose it, I never love d to read. One does not love breathing ~ Harper Lee
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Tuesday 2nd October

ROALD DAHL FAMILY STORYTIME
A FREE whoop-fizzing morning for children aged 3 and upwards and their grown ups, to explore the stories of Roald Dahl, through storytelling and creative art. Tom the Tale Teller will be telling stories, inspired by Roald Dahls stories and characters

LAUNCH OF THE BOOK BORROWERS

Come along to the official launch of the Book Borrowers at Eyres Monsell Community Centre. We are a local friendly community group who have a passion for reading. Come and discuss your favourite book get recommendations from other members. Refreshments provided. WHERE: Eyres Monsell Community Centre TIMES: 1.30pm - 3.30pm INFORMATION: Free entry

Families can drop in to make a disgusting Mr Twits beard, or catch a dream to take home in a jar like Sophie and the BFG. There'll be a picture treasure hunt around the library, reading and borrowing Roald Dahl books. WHERE: Highfields Library TIMES: Every half hour from 10.00am 11.30am INFORMATION: Maximum of 15 FREE Places for children at each session, booking in advance advised through Highfields library, or highfields-lib@leicester.gov.uk Children must be accompanied

THE CAN AND CANT OF WORDS

Pinggg...K! is an open mic poetry event and welcomes everyone to a metro sexual verse workshop and evening with Steph Pike, a performance poet and activist militant in spirit with a penetrating eye for beauty. Everything is free including home-made biscuits, nibbles and coffee, just pay for drinks at the bar. WHERE: The Red Tent TIMES: Workshop 3.00 - 5.00pm Pinggg...K starts 7.30pm INFORMATION: Open to the LGBT Community but all welcome. Free event, just come along.

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Wednesday 3rd October

AUTHORS TALK - NAT LUURTSEEMA CUCKOO IN THE NEST
Due to the recession and the difficulty in getting onto the property-buying ladder, a growing amount of adults are finding it harder to leave home or are actually having to go back. Nat Luurtsemas recent book Cuckoo in the Nest takes a comic perspective on this contemporary problem and she comes to discuss some of the issues with Leicester University students. WHERE: Leicester University TIMES: 5.00pm 6.00pm INFORMATION: Open to Leicester University Students. Free event.

ALICE HAWKINS THE LEICESTER SUFFRAGETTE

Suffragettes seemed exclusive to London, until Leicester boot and shoe worker Alice Hawkins became involved. Arrested in 1907 on a Womens Social and Political Union demonstration, she returned to Leicester to set up a local WSPU branch. She campaigned tirelessly for womens rights and votes through the first part of the 20th century. A working class hero, this presentation by her great grandson Peter Barratt, brings her story as a Suffragette to life. The Leicester Evening Mail reported Alices death prominently on its front page on 12th March 1946 headline reading: City Suffragette dead: Jailed five times in fight for womens vote WHERE: Secular Hall TIMES: 7.00pm - 9.00pm INFORMATION: Admission Free with a ticket available from the Alice Hawkins Suffragette Facebook Page or by calling the NUT on 0116 255 5311. Wine and juice reception at 7pm followed by the talk a short film & songs from Red Leicester Choir, including Nana was a Suffragette. Sponsored by Leicester and District Trades Union Council and Leicester Social Forum

IS YOUR GRANNY A GRUFFALO?

The children from the Sandfield Close Primary School and the staff from the Cooke e-Learning Foundation will facilitate an intergenerational reading based on the books of Julia Donaldson, especially The Gruffalo. Parents and grandparents will be introduced to using modern digital devices such as ipads and web based e-books. Children and grandparents will learn to search for the e-books online, draw and design their own pictures of the books and have fun and making reading easy and enjoyable. WHERE: Sandfield Close Primary School TIMES: 3.15 5.15pm INFORMATION: Limited availability for this free event, Booking essential

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Wednesday 3rd October

MEET THE AUTHOR STEPHEN BUTT: LEICESTER THROUGH TIME
Popular Leicester and Leicestershire author, Stephen Butt, will talk about his latest book Leicester Through Time and give an illustrated talk on the Changing Face of Leicester and Secret Leicester. Stephen will be helping you to discover some fascinating, but hidden places on your doorstep. Stephen was a broadcaster on Radio Leicester and his recent work includes research for Michael Woods BBC series, The Great British Story. WHERE: Hamilton Library TIMES: 2.30pm - 4.00pm INFORMATION: Free Event but you are advised to book. Call in to the library or give them a call

WRITERS STAND UP
Many writers find it difficult to give up the day job but some of them have a night job instead. A growing number of them perform as stand-up comedians and this show features crime novelist Jane Hill and recently published Nat Luurtseema (Cuckoo in the Nest) along with compere Alan Seaman (novel in progress). A stand-up show bought to you by Ship Of Fools Comedy which is much about books, aimed at readers and stand-up fans alike. WHERE: The Exchange Bar TIMES: 8.30pm - 10.00pm INFORMATION: Tickets 5 on the door 4 Concessions in advance from Ship Of Fools Comedy shipoffoolscomedy@yahoo.co.uk

TELLING TALES A POETRY WORKSHOP OPEN TO ALL WOMEN, LED BY MARIA TAYLOR
This workshop will focus on different ways of using truth in your writing, even if the truth itself is a fictional one. We will look at different texts for inspiration, but the aim of the workshop will be a strong emphasis on generating new work. Maria Taylor is a poet and reviewer based in Leicestershire. Her writing has been widely published in magazines. Her debut collection Melanchrini is available from Nine Arches Press. WHERE: Quaker Meeting House TIMES: 7.00 - 9.30pm INFORMATION: Limited availability, pre-booking essential. To book a place, please contact Karin at soundswrite@ntlworld.com

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Photo by Nick Rawle www.nickrphotography.com

Thursday 4th October

STORY CAFE MEETS LOCAL AUTHOR ROD DUNCAN
The Story Caf meets regularly at Evington Library and is open to anyone who is interested in creative writing. Rod is dyslexic but that certainly hasnt stopped him from being a successful writer. He has written a number of novels that have Leicester as a backdrop Backlash, Breakbeat and Burnout Rod also works with film, poetry and non-fiction as well as teaching creative writing. WHERE: Evington Library TIMES: 10am 12.00pm INFORMATION: Free event, please phone Evington Library to book a place.

INSTANT LOVE POETRY

You are invited on a date at the Ridiculously Romantic Restaurant of Lurrrrrve. Prepare to be romanced in this interactive, pop up comedy show thats full of surprises. Look out for the Ludicrous Lovers as they swoon and serenade you into a loved up frenzy. Bursts of lovely love poetry, sweet song and ripples of romance in an instant, unforgettable street performance. firmhandshakers@gmail.com WHERE: Central Library and Town Hall Square TIMES: From 5pm, part of Lyric Lounge Leicester

ILUVLYRICS SLAM 2012

An open mic competition for poets, spoken word artists and MC's. ILUVLYRICS Slam 2012 is taking over The Hub for the evening. Make sure you're prepared for up to three rounds of performing short poetry, rap or spoken word magic. The winner will take home a 50 bursary and the ILUVLYRICS Champion title. WHERE: The Hub TIMES: Registration from 8pm show starts 9pm INFORMATION: Free entry 18+

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Thursday 4th October

LYRIC LOUNGE LEICESTER
Writing East Midlands and partners present Lyric Lounge - a celebration of poetry, lyrics, music and rhyme for young people, local writers and everyone. Join us for a whole day of workshops, performances and live music. Having launched in Leicester and then toured the region for four years, Lyric Lounge, makes a return to the city for a National Poetry Day spectacular! A range of activities in Leicester Central Library, Bishop Street, spill out into The Chapel Cafe and Town Hall Square. Chill out with coffee, tea and books, meet festival artist, Tim Clarke or try your hand at knitting and singing. Our line up includes Instant Love Poetry, acclaimed singer-songwriter Mellow Baku - and Emmy Award winning poet and performer Kwame Dawes. Lyric Lounge Leicester invites participation from all ages www.lyriclounge.co.uk
The Lyric Lounge is a Writing East Midlands project. It is produced by renaissance one, co-ordinated in Lincoln by cultural solutions uk, and was artistically developed by Lydia Towsey. It is funded by Arts Council England and Legacy Trust UK, creating a lasting impact from the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games by funding ideas and local talent to inspire creativity across the UK.

KNIT AND THINK POETRY

Bring your knitting and listen to poems that make you think. Poet Alison Dunne leads this session during which youll hear and discuss poems, whilst knitting your masterpieces. A relaxing time guaranteed! WHERE: Central Library, Bishop Street TIMES: 10.00am - 12.00pm INFORMATION: Free event just come along

LYRICAL LOUNGING WITH MELLOW BAKU

Chill in The Chapel Cafe, Leicesters newest place to chat, with this coolest of workshops. Explore the legacy of The Blues with lyricist, musician and one of Leicester's leading artists, Mellow Baku. Mellow has performed alongside International and UK artists including Courtney Pine and performed at The Barbican, Jazz Caf Camden and The Knitting Factory in New York. WHERE: The Chapel Cafe TIMES: 10.00am - 12.00pm INFORMATION: Free event, Booking Essential. Participants are invited to share work they create at our 'Lyrical Lunchtime' or evening WORD! performance.

Any book that help s a child to form a habit of read ing, to make reading one of his deep and continuing needs, is good for him. ~ Maya Ange lou
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Thursday 4th October

LYRICAL LUNCHTIME WITH MELLOW BAKU
Bring your lunch and be entertained by our special guest - Mellow Baku. Open mic spots available, arrive a little early and sign up with the compere. WHERE: Central Library, Bishop Street TIMES: 12.30pm 1.30pm INFORMATION: Free event, just come along.

SHOWCASE SMOOTHIE, THE ANTHOLOGY LAUNCH

Come on down for the launch of the Showcase Smoothie collectives first anthology! Showcase Smoothie literature and music based project, led by Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust, is designed to showcase the talent of young black men with experience of mental health issues and has attracted national attention. The launch will feature members of the collective performing alongside editor, Roy McFarlane and mentor, Kwame Dawes. Delicious refreshments provided. Mingle and pick up a copy of the book! www.showcasesmoothie.com WHERE: Central Library, Bishop Street TIMES: From 4.15pm For all Lyric Lounge details and tickets please contact Poet & Artistic Director of the Lyric Lounge Leicester, Lydia Towsey: lydia@wordpoetry.co.uk

WORD!SHOP WITH KWAME DAWES

Join poet, author and playwright, Kwame Dawes, as he facilitates this special writing workshop. Dawes is the winner of multiple awards including the Forward Prize. He is a professor at the University of Nebraska and a director and programmer for the Calabash Festival in Jamaica. WHERE: Central Library, Bishop Street TIMES: 2.00pm 4.00pm NOTES: Places are limited, booking essential. Tickets 3/2 for library members.

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Thursday 4th October

AUTHOR TALKS - PAULINE BLACK
Author Talks: Pauline Black, lead singer with legendary 2-Tone band The Selecter, talks about her life, music and powerful autobiography Black By Design' WHERE: Central Library, Bishop Street TIMES: 6.00 7.00pm INFORMATION: Tickets 3/2 for library members

PERFORMANCE IN THE PUB

Performance in the Pub is a donation-based, regular DIY, solo, and storytelling performance night in the gig room of a pub in the centre of Leicester. Expect some of the UK's best and most exciting performers brought to the city for this Everybody's Reading special. If you've never been to the theatre before, enjoy the intimacy of a gig-style atmosphere & fancy seeing something a bit different in one of the liveliest independent pubs in the city - this is for you. Keep your eye on performanceinthepub.co.uk, follow @performancepub or find us on Facebook to discover the line up as soon as its announced. Previous acts have included the internationally renowned Third Angel, Fringe First winning Chris Thorpe, Hannah Walker, and Laura Mugridge, and innovative (but always down-to-earth) new work from Ira Brand and Jodean Sumner. Come along, pay what you can, drink, and do something different with your Thursday night. WHERE: The Cookie Jar at the Crumblin Cookie TIMES: Doors at 7.00pm starts 7.30pm

WORD! WITH KWAME DAWES

Join WORD! - The longest running spoken word night in the Midlands - for this special finale event. The night will celebrate: Black History Season, World Mental Health Month - and WORD!s 11th Birthday! Consisting of an open mic & headliner act - Kwame Dawes. Born in Ghana and raised in Jamaica, Dawes will offer readings and performance from his rich body of work, including his latest poetry collection Wheels and his edited anthology of 50 great Jamaican poets, Jubilation WHERE: Central Library, Bishop Street TIMES: 8.00pm INFORMATION: Open mic performers sign up with the compere, from 7.15pm. Tickets can be purchased on the day for 6/4 concessions For all Lyric Lounge details and tickets please contact Lydia Towsey: lydia@wordpoetry.co.uk
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Thursday 4th October

WRITE A BIG POEM FOR LEICESTER
Drop-in to Leicester Adult Education College and let poet John Gallas inspire you to contribute a few words, a phrase or a line or two to Writing School Leicesters third Big Poem. This event marks National Poetry Day this years theme is *STARS*. Your help is wanted to festoon the hall with fragments of poetry. John will inspire and enthuse you. Afterwards hell join up all your fragments to form the Third Big Poem for Leicester. With support from Writing School Leicester, Leicester Adult Skills and Learning Service. WHERE: Leicester Adult Education Centre TIMES: 12.00pm - 2.00pm INFORMATION: Suitable for anyone who would like to be inspired to contribute a few words.

The more yo u read, the m ore things you w ill know. The more that you learn , the more pla ces you'll go. ~ Dr. Seuss

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Friday 5th October

REBELLIOUS WRITING WORKSHOP
Join Tim Bombdog, Leicesters very own rebellious poet, for a workshop exploring and writing rebellious poetry. We hope to compile a short anthology of poetry produced and participants will also be encouraged and supported to perform their work at WORD! and other spoken word evenings. Free refreshments provided.
Photo by Nick Rawle www.nickrphotography.com

THE DIRTY THIRTY THE FILM

Everybodys Reading is delighted to host the premire of Brian Langtry and Len Holdens documentary film The Dirty Thirty. In the face of intense bitterness and anger just thirty Leicestershire miners stayed out on strike throughout the acrimonious and politically motivated 1984-5 miners dispute this is their story. The film, inspired by David Bells book The Dirty Thirty Heroes of the Miners Strike, gives voice to the memories and views of those embroiled in this conflict the men themselves, the wives, the womens support group, the Leicestershire Railway men and others. WHERE: Phoenix Cinema TIMES: 6.30 for a 7.00pm start INFORMATION: In addition to the film showing two speakers, author David Bell and Dirty Thirty activist Darren Moore will relate views and perspectives plus songs from Red Leicester Choir and acoustic song/music from Brian Langtry of the Zouch Boys and Len Holden. Tickets 3 from Phoenix Box Office or on the door Sponsored by Leicester and District T.U.C and Leicester Social Forum

WHERE: Embrace Arts TIMES: 1.00pm - 3.00pm INFORMATION: Free event, just come along. For mental health service users and anyone else!

THE BOOKS THAT SHAPED ME

A relaxed, informal session looking at the books that have shaped our LGBT lives. Bring along the books that made you who you are to share. We'll be looking at running regular sessions at The LGBT Centre based on reading & feeding into the centre's Oral History project. WHERE: Central Library, Bishop Street TIMES: 1.00pm - 3.00pm
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A book is lik e a garden carried in the pocket ~ Chinese Pro verb

Saturday 6th October

ROALD DAHL FAMILY STORYTIME
A free whoop-fizzing morning for children aged 3 and upwards and their grown ups, to explore the stories of Roald Dahl, through storytelling and creative art. Tom the Tale Teller will be telling stories, inspired by Roald Dahls stories and characters Families can drop in to make a disgusting Mr Twits beard, or catch a dream to take home in a jar like Sophie and the BFG or enjoy a picture treasure hunt around the library, reading and borrowing Roald Dahl books. WHERE: 10.30am - noon at Southfields Library 0116 299 5480 southfields.lib@leicester.gov.uk TIMES: 2.00 - 3.30pm at Knighton Library 0116 299 5477 knighton.lib@leicester.gov.uk INFORMATION: Three sessions at each library. Maximum of 15 FREE Places for children at each session, booking in advance advised. Children must be accompanied

A FRACTION OF YOUR TIME

In Functional Maths, reading and understanding is vital but why not also think about the enjoyment of reading? Explore texts that will make you think again some of them may even be about numbers! A brief focus on reading for pleasure and discovery for learners studying maths with Leicester Adult Skills and Learning Service. WHERE: Leicester Adult Skills and Learning Service, contact LASALS to book a place TIMES: Two sessions at 9.15am and 12.45pm, each session lasts hour INFORMATION: Event is free but restricted to LASALS learners Sessions aimed at: Maths learners enrolled on courses at LASALS

ALT FICTION
Fantasy, Sci Fi, Crime and Horror Fans - if you can't wait until Writing East Midlands' fantastic Alt. Fiction Festival next May come along to this taster event. Joseph D'Lacey, Niki Valentine, Kim Lakin-Smith and Damien Seaman will talk about their work through a panel discussion, workshops and readings.

WHERE: Central Library, Bishop Street TIMES: 12.30pm - 4.00pm INFORMATION: Free event, just come along, no need to book in advance
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Saturday 6th October

WHATS THE STORY?
A comedy storytelling workshop for people who like to laugh at funny stories. You will learn acting, improvisation and comedy performance techniques in an informal, fun and practical workshop. Complete beginners, newcomers and experienced are all welcome. WHERE: The Y Theatre TIMES: 1.00 - 4.00pm INFORMATION: Tickets 4 available from The Y Theatre Box Office. Suitable for 18+

CROSSING BORDERS: WRITING STORIES WORKSHOP FOR CHILDREN

Childrens books are filled with wonderful characters from Matilda to Harry Potter in this event we meet the authors to talk about their books and the characters that make them special. Morning: children (Years 3-6 and their families) will be guided through creative writing about their favourite characters and their own creations! Afternoon: Leicester author Irfan Master, will read from his debut novel, A Beautiful Lie and talk about what makes a good character to children in Years 7-11, but everybody is welcome a Q & A and book signing session will follow. WHERE: Belgrave Library TIMES: 11.00 am - 3.30pm INFORMATION: Tickets are limited, please book stating morning, afternoon, or both Booking essential by contacting Belgrave Library. Refreshments will be served but please bring a packed lunch if you plan to stay for the whole day

DOUGAL DIXON DOES DINOSAURS

Dougal Dixon is a full-time writer and book editor specializing in the earth sciences with a reputation for putting over the concepts in a novel way and children love to hear him talk about dinosaurs. Come to New Walk Museum's Dinosaur gallery for a reading and play session with one of the countrys dinosaur experts. WHERE: New Walk Museum TIMES: 1.00pm & 3.00pm INFORMATION: for preschool children with their parent or carer. Places limited. Booking in advance is essential by calling the Museum

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Sunday 7th October

THE GREEN READ
Find out how Jane got to live with chimpanzees, what the dinosaurs did with all that rubbish and how George managed to save the world by lunch time! And if all that listening and reading makes you thirsty, get yourself on our cycle-powered smoothie maker and make yourself, your family or the thirsty readers, a tasty drink. For you creative types, bring along your own art work or writing on an environmental theme to share with others. You can also create one on the day. Your work might be chosen to go in the EcoHouse exhibition! Just so the adults dont feel left out, therell also be books for them to look at, tasty coffee to slurp and we might let them have a go on the smoothie maker too if theyre good! Its all happening at the EcoHouse, so why not take a free tour of the house and garden while youre there? See what an eco-friendly childs bedroom looks like. Hang out in the outdoor play area or hunt for bugs in the garden. There are games and quizzes too! WHERE: The Eco House TIMES: 12.00pm 3.00pm INFORMATION: Free event, just come along. Suitable for pre-primary and primary aged children and their families. The Green Read is being organised by Transition Leicester, a network of local people taking practical action to make Leicester into a thriving, resilient and low-carbon city.

Books can be dangerous. The best ones should be labelled. This could change your life ~ Helen Exley

Leicester Museums Service

We have a range of free teaching and learning resources online for both teachers and pupils, to find out more please visit www.learnwithmuseums.org.uk

Our museums and galleries host a wide variety of events, workshops, performances and lectures. http://www.leicester.gov.uk/your-council-services/lc/leicester-city-museums/events
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Monday 8th October

ELEVENSES... WITH JOHN HEGLEY
Wile away the midday hours with John Hegley - and this decidedly lovely, elevenses of a workshop. Bring along a poem, have a cup of tea, and possibly a fig roll. No experience required. Refreshments provided. John Hegley is widely known as one of the country's most innovative comic poets. Hes the author of ten books of poetry and prose, two CDs, and one mug. Hes a regular sell-out at The Edinburgh Festival. He has performed at the Montreal Comedy Festival, the USA Comedy Festival in Aspen, with Ulrika Jonsson & Anita Dobson in The Pyjama Game and on BBC R4's Hearing With Hegley. WHERE: The Guildhall TIMES: 11.00am - 1.00pm INFORMATION: Booking essential. To book your place please ring The Guildhall Box Office: Tickets: 3/2 concessions

FUN WAYS TO APPROACH SHAKESPEARE

This workshop takes a fresh look at Shakespeare using innovative techniques and games to make Shakespeare cool again. Discover themes and characters from famous Shakespearean plays, learn improvisation and acting skills whilst having fun along the way! Find out more firmhandshakers@gmail.com WHERE: The Y Theatre TIMES: 6.30pm - 8:30pm INFORMATION: Tickets 4 from The Y Theatre Box Office. Complete beginners, newcomers and experienced are all welcome 18+

Drawing by Tim Clarke, Everybodys Reading Artist in Residence 22

Monday 8th October

JOHN HEGLEY PRESENTS... 'PEACE, LOVE AND POTATOES
Join John Hegley - one of the nation's best loved poets - for the exciting Leicester launch of his brand new book: 'Peace, Love and Potatoes'. This all-new volume by the inimitable poet, comedian and performer John Hegley brings together poetry, prose and drawings on the themes closest to his heart from painting, France and family, to Daleks and of course potatoes, these pieces are by turns funny, moving, thought-provoking - and always brilliantly original. 'John Hegley is to potatoes, what Wordsworth has been to daffodils' (Observer).

WHERE: The Guildhall TIMES: 8.00pm (Doors/Bar 7.00pm) INFORMATION: Tickets 10/8 from The Guildhall Box Office

I have a passion for teach ing kids to become readers, to become comfortable wit ha book, not daunted. Book s shouldn't be daunting, the y should be funny, exciting and wonderful; and learni ng to be a reader gives a ter rific advantage ~ Roald Dahl

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Venue list
1 Aylestone Meadows Nature Reserve, Pebble Beach, Aylestone Meadows (at the start of the Boardwalk) 2 Beaumont Leys Library, Beaumont Way, Leicester LE4 1DS 0116 299 5460 3 Belgrave Library, Cossington Street Leicester, LE4 6JD, 0116299 5500 4 Curve Theatre, Rutland Street, Leicester, LE1 1SB, Ticket Office 0116 242 3595 5 EcoHouse, Parkfield, Western Park (near main entrance), Leicester, LE3 6HX, 0116 254 5489 6 Embrace Arts, Lancaster Road, Leicester, LE1 7HA, 0116 252 2455 7 Evington Library, Evington Lane, LE5 6DH, 0116 221 1286 8 Eyres Monsell Community Centre, Hillsborough Road, Leicester LE2 9PQ 0116 2787294 9 Gorse Hill City Farm, Anstey Lane, Leicester, LE4 0FJ, 0116 253 7582 10 Guildhall, Guildhall Museum, Guildhall Lane, Leicester LE1 5FQ, 0116 2532569 11 Hamilton Library, Maidenwell Avenue, Leicester, LE5 1BL, 0116 2212790 12 Highfields Library, 98, Melbourne road, Leicester, LE2 0DS, 0116 2995494 13 Knighton Library, Clarendon Park Road, Leicester, LE2 3AJ, 0116 2995478 14 Leicester Adult Education College & Writing School Leicester, 2 Wellington Street, Leicester, LE1 6HL 15 Leicester Adult Education College, Wellington Street, Leicester, LE1 6HL
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16 Leicester Central Library, Bishop Street, Leicester, LE1 6AA, 0116 2995401 17 Leicester Quaker Meeting House, 16, Queens Road, Leicester, LE2 1WP 18 New Walk Museum, 53 New Walk Leicester, LE1 7EA, 0116 225 4900 19 Pedestrian Gallery, LCB depot, 31, Rutland Street, Leicester, LE1 1RE, 0116 261 6891 20 Phoenix Cinema, Phoenix Square, Midland Street, Leicester, LE1 1TG, 0116 242 2800 21 Secular Hall, Humberstone Gate, Leicester, LE1 1WB 22 Southfields Library, (Pork Pie Island), Saffron Lane, Leicester, LE2 6QS, 0116 2995480 23 The BRITE Centre, 130 Braunstone Avenue, Leicester, LE3 ILE 24 The Chapel Cafe, Bishop Street, Leicester, LE1 6AF 25 The Crumblin Cookie, 68 High Street City Centre, Leicester LE1 5YP, 0116 253 1212 26 The Exchange Bar, 50 Rutland St, Leicester, LE1 1RD 27 The Hub, 49 Braunstone Gate, Leicester, LE3 5LH 28 The Red Tent, 8 Pocklingtons Walk, Leicester, LE1 6BU, 07777 602 881 (will accept text only) 29 The Y Theatre, 7 East Street, Leicester, LE1 6EY, Box Office: 0116 255 7066

Round-up of events
September 24th
AN EVENING WITH BESTSELLING CRIME WRITERS MARK BILLINGHAM & MARTYN WAITES
see page 3

October 1st
READING THE BODY: A WOMAN ARRIVES IN THE 21ST CENTURY see
page 7

September 26th October 6th

THE BEAUTIFUL SCRIPT EXHIBITION see page 3

READING THE BODY: EXHIBITION see page 7 READING THE BODY, ART WORKSHOP see page 7 YOUNG ADULTS DAY see page 8

September 27th
THE MASS MEDIA AS A SOURCE OF INSPIRATION FOR POETRY AND ART see page 3

October 2nd
IF IT ISNT EFFICIENT, IT WILL BE CHEAP see page 9 STORY CAFE WITH POET ROB GEE
see page 9

September 29th
THREE LITTLE PIGS see page 4 READING WITH DAD see page 4 FINDING NEVERLAND THE MUSICAL COMMUNITY READ see
page 4

ROALD DAHL FAMILY STORYTIME

see page 10

LAUNCH OF THE BOOK BORROWERS see page 10 THE CAN AND CANT OF WORDS
see page 10

INSTANT LOVE POETRY see page 5 WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY see
page 5

October 3rd
AUTHORS TALK - NAT LUURTSEEMA CUCKOO IN THE NEST see page 11 IS YOUR GRANNY A GRUFFALO?
see page 11

September 30th
WRITTEN ON WATER, A CELEBRATION OF AYLESTONE MEADOWS see page 6 NEIL INNES - SHORT SONGS AND TALL STORIES see page 6

ALICE HAWKINS THE LEICESTER SUFFRAGETTE see

page 11

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MEET THE AUTHOR STEPHEN BUTT: LEICESTER THROUGH TIME

see page 12

WRITE A BIG POEM FOR LEICESTER see page 17

WRITERS STAND UP see page 12 TELLING TALES A POETRY WORKSHOP OPEN TO ALL WOMEN, LED BY MARIA TAYLOR see page 12

October 5th
REBELLIOUS WRITING WORKSHOP see page 18 THE BOOKS THAT SHAPED ME
see page 18

THE DIRTY THIRTY THE FILM

see page 18

October 4th
STORY CAFE MEETS LOCAL AUTHOR ROD DUNCAN see page 13 ILUVLYRICS SLAM 2012 see page 13 INSTANT LOVE POETRY see page 13 LYRIC LOUNGE LEICESTER see page
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October 6th
ROALD DAHL FAMILY STORYTIME see page 19 A FRACTION OF YOUR TIME
see page 19

ALT FICTION see page 19 WHATS THE STORY? see page 20 DOUGAL DIXON DOES DINOSAURS see page 20 CROSSING BORDERS: WRITING STORIES WORKSHOP FOR CHILDREN see page 20

KNIT AND THINK POETRY see page

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LYRICAL LOUNGING WITH MELLOW BAKU see page 14 LYRICAL LUNCHTIME WITH MELLOW BAKU see page 15 WORD!SHOP WITH KWAME DAWES
see page 15

October 7th
THE GREEN READ see page 21

SHOWCASE SMOOTHIE, THE ANTHOLOGY LAUNCH see page 15 AUTHOR TALKS - PAULINE BLACK
see page 16

October 8th
ELEVENSES... WITH JOHN HEGLEY
see page 22

WORD! WITH KWAME DAWES see

page 16

FUN WAYS TO APPROACH SHAKESPEARE see page 22 JOHN HEGLEY PRESENTS... 'PEACE, LOVE AND POTATOES
see page 23
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PERFORMANCE IN THE PUB see

page 16

Events are correct at time of going to press, further events might be on the website