Previous years:
Stephanie Cole is one of Britain’s best-loved actresses and the star of many TV plays and series including the classics, 'Waiting for God', 'Tenko' and 'Open All Hours'. Her stage credits include 'Noises Off' and 'The Shell Seekers'
Heave Ho, me hearties for the history of smugglers in the west - including
the Wiltshire Moonrakers!
Local author, Roger Guttridge, is well known for his articles in the Blackmore
Vale Magazine and has written a number of books on local history including two
on smuggling.
In June 1870 Charles Dickens suffered a stroke and died at his home, Gad’s Hill near Rochester. His great-great-grandson, Henry Hawksley, gives a family perspective on his famous ancestor in this illustrated talk. Henry Hawksley is a past president of The Dickens Society and a trustee of the Charles Dickens Museum.
Always a popular event- this year’s concert will feature Songs from the Shows with the fabulous trio Intermezzo plus Mere Children’s Choir , Mere Drama Society Juniors and other local talent.
Live theatre at its best on the weekend of the 150th. anniversary of Oscar Wilde’s birth. Neil Titley’s solo performance as the world’s greatest wit has been performed all over the world to rave reviews. This Link to Neil Titley's website opens in a new window.
Before becoming an M.P. Dr.Murrison was a Royal Navy surgeon and recently
served as a reservist in Iraq. In his talk he recalls his naval career and call
up to serve in Iraq.
This Link to Dr.
Murrison's parliamentary website opens in a new window.
Freelance journalism can be challenging and rewarding. Beginners and more established writers will find this course bursting with ideas. Mike Stares is an experienced freelance journalist who runs a national news agency and enjoys inspiring course members with his enthusiasm. He has written for a range of media and run successful courses. His students have had their work published in national newspapers and magazines.
Della Galton works as a full time writer. She has written over 400 short stories for women’s magazines and also writes serials and features.
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This Link to Della Galton's website opens in a new window.
After his outstanding performance of 'Two Victorian Tales' last year, acclaimed
actor, Raymond Sargent, returns to share his theatre skills. His master class
will work on such stagecraft areas as Voice, Relaxation, Concentration, Trust
and Focus. Thespians of whatever age or experience can bring a piece of drama to
work on (Individual or group of 5-7 mins.) with Raymond. Perhaps something from
an upcoming production or a favourite character speech. Others may prefer to
form the audience and just watch a master at work.
This Link to Ray Sargent's
website opens in a new window
An afternoon of craft and fun activities based on popular children’s books.
An evening with one of the major figures of contemporary British literature. Fay Weldon has enjoyed a successful career spanning more than three decades and many genres. She has written novels, plays, short stories, TV adaptations, film scripts, articles and her memoir 'Auto Da Fay'. Not to be missed! Fay Weldon in conversation with journalist, Katharine Lawley and the audience.
Best selling novelist Katie Fforde has received high praise from reviewers
for her ‘delicious’ books which include 'Living Dangerously', 'Stately
Pursuits', 'Thyme Out' and 'Paradise Fields'. She will give her adjudication of
the short-listed stories in this year’s Open Competition, and announce the
winners.
The winners of the local and junior competitions will also be announced by their
respective judges. This Link to Katie Fforde's website opens in a new window.