Frank Cottrell-Boyce brings children’s writers, spoken word artists and novelists to this year’s event
Award-winning author, screenwriter and Brighton Festival 2024 Guest Director Frank Cottrell-Boyce brings a host of beloved children’s writers, spoken word artists and acclaimed novelists to this year’s event from 4-26 May, including Joseph Coelho, Julia Donaldson, Sarah Perry, Michael Morpurgo and former Guest Director, Kae Tempest. The Festival’s Books & Debates events also return to Brighton Dome’s historic, recently refurbished Corn Exchange and Studio Theatre, allowing for an expanded programme that includes a staged reading of Joelle Taylor’s acclaimed debut novel and poetry from Henry Normal and Brian Bilston.
Highlights:
The Wonder Panel: 11 May
A celebration of the glory of the story with some of the nation’s best loved story tellers, suitable for all ages. In a lively discussion, Frank Cottrell-Boyce, current Children’s Laureate Joseph Coelho and Cressida Cowell and award-winning illustrator Chris Riddell will explore the wonder of literature and investigate how stories help us build the machinery of happiness.
Kensuke’s Kingdom: 12 May
The film adaptation of Michael Morpurgo’s best-selling children’s novel Kensuke’s Kingdom, by Frank Cottrell-Boyce, is shown on 12 May. This gripping hand-drawn animated tale will be followed by a Q&A with both author and screenwriter.
The Island of Brilliant: 19 May
Julia Donaldson joins Frank Cottrell-Boyce and Nadia Shireen for a live recording of this hugely popular podcast.
Henry Normal and Brian Bilston: 15 May
In the beautifully restored 200-year-old Corn Exchange poets Henry Normal and Brian Bilston read from their vast catalogues of crowd favourites.
For Young Readers
Alexandra Sheppard introduces her brand-new novel for children aged 9 to 12, Alyssa and the Spell Garden, in an interactive writing workshop on 5 May. On 12 May, children aged 4 to 8 can step into author and illustrator Sophy Henn’s playful picture book series Lifesize to learn some incredible facts and 8- to 12-year-olds can create their own fantasy world in a drawing session with Vashi Hardy, author of the action-packed adventure North and the Only One on 26 May.
Established in 1967, Brighton Festival is the largest annual curated multi-arts festival in England. This year, Frank Cottrell-Boyce invites everyone to experience the Hope, Magic and Wonder of the arts, with an inclusive and accessible programme of events across the city.
Further Information: Brighton Festival | Brighton Festival