Liverpool’s Writing on the Wall Festival returns next month with an impressive line-up of famous names taking part.
Filmmaker Ken Loach, children’s author Michael Rosen and TV presenter Jon Snow will all appear in WoWFEST, which will run online throughout May.
They will be joined by Chinese-American author Maxine Hong-Kingston, singer-songwriterTracey Thorn and US crime fiction novelist Walter Mosley in a programme to mark the organisation's 21st anniversary.
Lady Phyll, the British political activist and co-founder of UK Black Pride, as well as with Elif Shafak, a Turkish-British writer and women's rights activist, are also among the guests.
Mike Morris and Madeline Heneghan, Writing on the Wall's co-directors, said: “We are proud to be marking 21 years of radical writing. This is a celebration of all we stand for and all we continually strive to achieve.
“We have some really significant names lined up, from leading iconic film makers, to Booker prize winners, legendary legal minds, musicians, spoken word artists, campaigners, activists and local writers and artists.
“These are just the first eight headline names to be announced but we are looking forward to revealing further high-profile names in the coming weeks.”
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The festival promises to have something for everyone, from children through to adults, with guests from a wide range of backgrounds and covering a hugely diverse range of topics.
All of the sessions will be virtual and interactive, with audience members being encouraged to ask questions and interact with the speakers following their performances or presentations. There will also be a series of competitions.
Mike and Madeline added: “For 21 years Writing on the Wall has transformed lives, published countless new authors, discovered lost voices, campaigned against racism, discrimination and inequality in all its forms and pushed local, national and international issues in their fight for justice.
“All of this, together with inspiring local communities through creativity to address mental health, domestic abuse, women’s rights, refugees and asylum seekers, Trans rights and much, much more.”
To celebrate its 21st anniversary, Writing on the Wall is offering guests an early bird festival pass for just £21 for entry to all events. Tickets and further details here.
