Storytelling Southeast will include a focus onnew writing from Canada and especially Newfoundland, a region with very close connections with the Southeast. International guests will read poetry and give talks. They include: Mary Dalton, Randall Maggs and Armand Garnet Ruffo.Critically acclaimed Irish poet John Ennis has been instrumental in making this focus happen. His in-depth knowledge of new writing of Canada and his long standing partnerships with colleges and friendships with writers have made this even more special.
This focus will also be the starting point of an exchange programme to encourage young writing talent and give an opportunity to explore the connections between Newfoundland and County Waterford. Canadian Eva Crocker will be the first writer to avail of this. She has published short stories in "Paragon" - St. John's Memorial University's journal of creative writing - and is considered an emerging talent.
Key events:
- Wednesday 26 September; John Ennis in Bridge House at 5 pm
- Thursday 27 September; Armand G Ruffo on "Norval Morrisseau" in the Old Market House at 7 pm
- Friday 28 September; Mary Dalton in the Old Market House at 7 pm
- Saturday 29 September; Randall Maggs in Bridge House at 5 pm
- Sunday 30 September; samples of new Canadian writing in the Tannery Cookery School at 5 pm (including Irish Tapas and Wine sampling)
Canadian Ambassador Loyola Hearn has expressed his support:
"Wishing you every success with the Storytelling Southeast Festival. As we know, there are many great stories that exist between the South East of Ireland and the South East of Newfoundland and it would be a great pleasure to hear them presented."
