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Event - BIG SKY | Readers and Writers Festival

BIG SKY | Readers and Writers Festival

BIG SKY | Readers and Writers Festival

Saturday 12 October, 2024, 09:00 AM

Big Sky 2024 at the Queens Park Theatre - Saturday 12 October

Tickets are booked via the library website or Humanitix - Book Tickets Here

Big Sky comes alive again for another bumper programme of festival favourites! In this our 19th year, the Geraldton Regional Library is delighted to present 4 days of energy and excitement - with something for everyone, whether you’re a reader, a writer or just love to explore new ideas. Immerse yourself in the passionate pursuit of feeding your imagination and support your local Library! Libraries have always been places where intellectual freedom is respected and promoted. In 2024, under the theme the Power of Expression, celebrate the impact and possibilities this freedom may bring. Just as a dropped pebble causes ripples in a pond, your participation spreads creativity in our community.
                                                                                                                                                                                           

POP- UP FESTIVAL BOOK SHOP 
Saturday, 9.00am -1.30pm

Key Note Address - 9.00am - 9.30am
presented by Yumna Kassab 

Experimental writing provides a departure from the traditional boundaries of storytelling and enables a broad mix of perspectives.
In her embrace of diverse communities and in the celebration of their stories, Yumna Kassab explores the power of literary expression
and its ability to connect us with the human experience, challenge the status quo, and inspire change.

                                                                                                                                                                                           

CONCURRENT SESSION ONE

The Creative Journey - 9.45am -10.45am
Chris Hammer, Tess Woods and Jake Dennis in conversation with Glenn B Swift 

Every writer’s creative journey is different, shaped by their personal background, goals, and the stories they want to tell. Learn what inspires our special guest authors, Chris Hammer and Tess Woods, with poet and singer, Jake Dennis, in conversation with Glenn B Swift.

Murla-na Bula Wula Bulangul - 9.45am -10.45am 

Naaguja Singer-Songwriter Theona Councillor is the creator of the upcoming Naaguja-style Opera: ‘Murla-na Bula Wula Bulangul’ which retells the story of the 1854 massacre at Pelican Spring.
She will be joined by Yamaji actor Bruce Denny, and settler artist George Criddle to discuss the importance of working together on the opera which will revive Naaguja cultural song, dance and story while producing an important truth-telling opportunity for the community to learn about the history of colonisation and its impact on Naaguja peoples.

Bruce Denny - Starting in community theatre in the late 80s, Bruce Denny has worked in professional theatre and film for over 30 years. With numerous writing commissions, acting roles, and directing credits under his belt his experience in all facets of theatre-making keeps him busy

                                                                                                                                                                                          

CONCURRENT SESSION TWO

Searching for Meaning, Finding Joy - 11.00am -12.00pm
Annie de Monchaux and Deborah Pike in conversation with Lorraine Chapman.

Two beautifully crafted new stories take the reader along a familiar path of selfdiscovery, endurance, love and friendship.
Join Annie de Monchaux and Deborah Pike in conversation with Lorraine Chapman, as they discuss their most recent releases, growing through life and finding yourself along the way.

Self Help Session - 11.00am -12.00pm
Tech is not the Villain

Need help with the library’s digital resources? Got a new e-Reader that you’re looking to master?
Are you looking to improve your basic tech and online research skills?
Book a power session with a friendly Library staff member!

                                                                                                                                                                                           

Naaguja Cultural Knowledge and Holistic Practice Workshop - 1.00pm - 2.30pm
The Journey to Revitalisation

In this workshop led by Naaguja singer-songwriter Theona Councillor, participants will learn the importance of reclaiming and reviving Naaguja language.
They will also learn about the revival of cultural practices of song, dance and storytelling that focus on ‘connection, healing and Country’.
Open to all genders and ages.

Price: $25

BOOK SIGNING SESSION 
with our guest Authors 

Saturday, 12.45pm -12.45pm 

Tickets are booked via the library website or Humanitix - Book Tickets Here