Newham Word Festival is two weeks of more than 150 events ‘in celebration of the written and spoken word’ from Monday 6th of November to Sunday the 19 November. It was the first of its kind and involves a spectre of talent, with local artists and organisations.
The events varied from spoken word, author and illustrator appearances, debates, storytelling, performance and visual arts and which were catered to all, with its diversity of free events for families, adults and schools.
The events occurred across the borough and were situated in libraries, community centres, arts and cultural venues, shops, cafés and in the street.
Local authors participating in the event included: Derek Smith, Lia Smith, Tom McColl, Leila Nicotera and Melina Merlin, the award-winning spoken word artist Adisa the Verbaliser and many more.
Discover Children’s Story Centre was the producers and programmers for the events and they helped in putting together the festival.
Councillor Ken Clark, Deputy Mayor (Statutory), Strategic Delivery and Cabinet Member for Community Neighbourhoods, Regeneration and Planning and Public Affairs stated ‘Whether you’re interested in stories, hip hop, book making, local history or comedy, we hope there’s something for everybody, of all ages, right across the borough.’ And ‘I hope as many residents as possible take the opportunity to get involved, and to discover how enjoyment of reading and words can enrich our lives here in Newham.’
