Purbeck Literary Festival, Poetry Junction, Swanage - and "Dorset Voices" (26 February)

Purbeck LitFest’s 'Poetry Junction' at L'Artishe Gallery, Swanage

The first Purbeck Literary Festival will take place between 17th February and 2nd March 2014. Covering all of Purbeck, with venues as diverse as village halls, schools, pubs, cafes, and hotels, there is something for everyone in the varied programme, which has been put together to appeal to both readers and writers. There are opportunities for adults, teens and children to meet writers from crime to comedy, poetry to the paranormal. It is hoped the whole festival will bring the area alive with creativity for everyone with a passion for words.

Midway through the two weeks an evening event will be hosted at L’Artishe Gallery, Swanage in conjunction with local publisher Roving Press. This will take place on Wednesday 26th February.

Participants will be able to hear poets perform their work, and are encouraged to bring along their own written piece to try out, and discuss what makes poetry ‘work’. A panel of established poets will be on hand to answer questions and ensure a lively discussion. Led by award-winning poet and playwright Peter John Cooper, anyone taking part will get invaluable advice as well as having a thoroughly enjoyable creative evening sharing poetry.

Peter John Cooper is an acclaimed British playwright, poet and theatre director. With over forty years’ experience, he has written for companies throughout the UK and has specialised in writing for small casts and unusual venues.

Includes a copy of the 128-page anthology Dorset Voices: A Collection of New Prose, Poetry and Photographs, courtesy of Roving Press, as well as a complementary glass of wine. Julie Musk from Roving Press says: “Dorset Voices was an opportunity for new and established writers and photographers to have their work published in something long-lasting – a professionally produced local book. The result is an original collection of work to inspire others. The Poetry Corner has this same ethos, to share and celebrate local talent. We hope anyone who writes poetry will take part. Or you can just come to listen and enjoy.”

The event starts at 7pm with tickets £6

Tickets available from

L'Artishe Gallery

71 High Street Swanage

BH19 2LY or:

Discover Purbeck Information Centre, Wareham, Tel 01929 52750

Swanage Tourist Information Centre, Tel 01929 422885

Visit www.purbeckliteraryfestival.info for updates on the programme, information on tickets, accommodation and more. Or Facebook.com/PurbeckLiteraryfestival.com

For PR enquiries contact Emma Fernandez, Violet PR, tel 078 497 48 434.