Everything You Need to Know About Lit & Ideas
After a wild 2020 there is plenty to think about and talk about
Our Literature & Ideas program is back bringing plenty of food for thought! Once again we’ll be hearing from some of your favourite authors about the work they’ve released this year and there’ll be chats about big ideas that have emerged in the books 2020 brought us. As you know, ideas are as important as the books that drive them and so this year we’ve put together a whole Day of Ideas to allow ourselves the pleasure of talking about our city and the ideas that have shaped it.
So, what’s new?
They say a change is as good as a holiday and given we haven’t been able to get out of WA, these changes to our program might be just what the doctor ordered.
First off, we’ve spread the Literature & Ideas program over three weekends.
It all kicks off with A Day of Ideas which finds a home at Perth Concert Hall on Saturday 13 February. Buy a single ticket that gets you a pass for a whole day of sessions that focus on Derbarl Yerrigan, the mighty Swan River – its history, its ecology, its stories and those of the people who have lived here. Over five sessions we’re bringing together storytellers, artists, Elders, scientists, musicians and philosophers to discuss, debate and dive deep into issues and ideas about this place we call home.
Our much-loved Literature Weekend is back – but in a new venue.
On Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 February we’re taking over the refurbished His Majesty’s Theatre for a weekend that is all about books. We have a strong line-up of local authors keen to share their stories with you. From Craig Silvey whose new book Honeybee has been a focal point of important and affirming conversations about gender and identity, to hometown favourite Rebecca Giggs whose book Fathoms is an elegy to whales – including the remounted Blue Whale at the new WA Museum Boola Bardip. Thanks to the wonders of technology we’re able to bring authors from interstate and overseas to join us. Held in the newly renovated main hall of His Majesty’s Theatre, this year’s conversations will be very special. We will tap into conversations with Trent Dalton whose Boy Swallows Universe had the crowds lining up last year, and Booker Prize-shortlisted author Maaza Mengiste whose The Shadow King tells the story of a part of the world that is once again embroiled in conflict. We’re also excited to talk to Julia Gillard about the lessons she and other women leaders have learned in the last decade. These guests won’t just be online talking generally about their latest releases – they’ll be in conversation with a local moderator who’ll be live in the venue, asking the questions you want answered.
Another new initiative for 2021 is our payment system.
We’re giving you the choice of what you pay for a session (except for A Day of Ideas and Julia Gillard’s in conversation). As a guide we’re suggesting $19 for a session, but if you aren’t able to pay that you can nominate a lower amount – or even take part for nothing! If you are in a position to be more generous then you can opt to pay more and that extra money will cover the cost of someone not able to pay as much.
What’s stayed the same?
We'll still have a full weekend of conversations with some of the best authors in the state, country and overseas! Whether they’re in the room or on a screen you’ll still be able to hear from all your favourites (and discover new ones) as they chat with experienced local moderators. And you’ll still have a chance to ask your burning questions. In the lead up we have events running at Fremantle (and this year Joondalup too) that give you a chance to meet some of our incredible local writing talent.
What about the Family Fun Day?
We’re glad you asked! Our usual Family Day activities won’t be happening over the Literature Weekend. Instead we’re going wild and creating Wild Things, a big day out at Perth Zoo.
Our Curated by Kids program has been revamped and our ten young curators will be planning an incredible day of adventure inspired by the zoo setting. There’ll be authors as well as musicians and performers involved in a huge range of activities, storytelling and performances.
You can find details for Wild Things here with more information to come!
What are Watch at Home events?
This year we've introduced Watch at Home events. Can’t make it in person? Grab a virtual ticket and watch select Literature & Ideas events from the comfort of your couch.
View the FAQ's here.