UPDATE: The highly anticipated kids’ program at the Byron Writers Festival is set to ignite young imaginations this August 10, 2023. Featuring a lineup of celebrated authors and entertainers, the festival promises an engaging day of storytelling and creativity designed for children.
Taking place at the Lilly Pilly and Coolamon marquees, the event will kick off with a spectacular performance by comedian and author Peter Helliar, who will introduce his mystery story, Detective Galileo. This unique festival experience aims to cultivate a love for literature among the next generation.
Festival organizers have confirmed that rising literary star Tony Armstrong will also make an exclusive appearance, sharing enchanting tales from his works, including George the Wizard and Maggie the Dragon. Expect an adventure filled with dreams, dragons, and boundless imagination.
The excitement won’t stop there. The dynamic duo of Miles Merrill and Rachael Williams will open the program with their captivating rhyme and rap performance, setting an energetic tone for the day. Young attendees can also look forward to storytime sessions with Anita Heiss, featuring her books Koori Princess and Yirra and Her Deadly Dog, Demon.
At the Coolamon stage, the StoryBoard space will come alive with the iconic StoryBoard bus and a tipi village, offering free drop-in workshops and storytelling sessions led by some of Australia’s most exciting children’s storytellers. Kids can start their day with Kirali Saunders, author of Afloat, and then delve into biodiversity with Judy Friedlander from The Bee Squad.
Creative sessions include crafting flower crowns with Zanni Louise and poetry workshops with Sarah Temporal. The event will wrap up with a drawing workshop led by Jake A Minton, the creator of Inked: A Graphic Novel. There will also be joyful dance breaks featuring The Gumboots and dazzling performances from Spaghetti Circus, including stilt walkers that are sure to amaze!
Don’t miss the chance to celebrate young writers at the Jesse Blackadder Prize Presentation, recognizing the creative achievements of aspiring authors.
For further details on the full Kids Program and ticket information, visit www.byronwritersfestival.com/festival/kids-program.
This year’s festival is not just an event; it’s a celebration of creativity and storytelling that aims to inspire young minds. Make plans now to be part of this enriching experience!
