The UK’s first LGBTQ+ writing festival, The Coast Is Queer, returns to Sussex University for a weekend of literary events, discussions, and inclusivity.
The Coast Is Queer, a distinctive LGBTQ+ writing festival, is making its return for a lively weekend of literary festivities at the Attenborough Centre for the Creative Arts, located on the campus of Sussex University. Running from Thursday to Sunday, this festival uniquely caters to queer readers, writers, and allies, providing a space for celebrating and exploring the written word. Notably, it holds the distinction of being the UK’s first festival of its kind, having been inaugurated in 2019.
In partnership with Kemptown Bookshop, which will serve as the festival’s official bookseller, this year’s programme showcases a diverse array of events. These include sessions partly curated by students from both Sussex and Brighton Universities, reflecting the collaborative spirit of the festival. Among the varied activities, attendees can look forward to engaging discussions such as the one on politics and hope featuring prominent writer and commentator Owen Jones, as well as a poetry open mic night that invites poets to share their work in an inclusive setting.
Additionally, festival-goers can participate in a book launch and workshops addressing vital themes such as how to get published and crafting memoirs. These workshops aim to provide valuable insight and guidance for aspiring writers, enhancing their journey in the literary world.
Further extending its reach beyond the festival’s physical boundaries, The Coast Is Queer has joined forces with Radio Reverb’s The Brighton Book Club production team to create a special series of podcasts. These recordings, totalling five in number, will capture key moments and discussions from the 2023 festival, offering those unable to attend in person a chance to engage with the content.
The festival’s return is a significant occasion for the LGBTQ+ community, underscoring its commitment to celebrating diversity through literature and the arts. By fostering dialogue and creativity, The Coast Is Queer continues to highlight important voices and stories within the queer community.
Source: Noah Wire Services