Welcome
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Welcome to The Independent Bath Literature Festival 2016! For our 21st birthday — and in my third and final year as Artistic Director — our theme is Forever Young. Debut novels and fresh talent will be at the top of the agenda, with a record number of new writers featured this year. Of course, we'll also be marking the importance of something that never gets old: discovering a new book by a favourite author. Take your pick from Sebastian Faulks, Tracy Chevalier and Pat Barker.
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e'll also be doffing our party hats to the names who remind us that age is an attitude not a number: Gloria Steinem (on her first visit to the UK in over twenty years), Joan Bakewell and inspiring political campaigner Harry Leslie Smith. Plus, we kick off global celebrations of the 400th anniversary of William Shakespeare's death with our Shakespeare Gala, a unique night of entertainment and hilarity especially designed to give an unforgettable (and accessible) glimpse into his world. If, like me, it's arguing with people and getting cross that
make you feel young and energised, our debates on the EU question and on British popular culture are built for you. On the other hand, it wouldn't be much of a party without comedy. Bring on Al Murray as the Pub Landlord, Dom Joly, Isy Suttie, Ben Miller and, returning to Bath by popular demand, Edinburgh Fringe sell-out show Austentatious: An Improvised Novel. As Shakespeare himself said: 'With mirth and laughter let old wrinkles come.' Bring them on. Happy 21st, everyone! Viv Groskop ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
Waterstones Festival Bookshop
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oining the 21st Anniversary celebrations are Waterstones (Waterstones. com) who return as the official bookseller for The Independent Bath Literature Festival. Visit their Festival Bookshop in the Guildhall where a wide range of books will be available or relax at the Festival Café — what better place to spend some time between the 2016 Literature Festival events? Don't forget to take your book along and get it signed at the end of each event. Also look out for satellite bookshops at the other Literature Festival venues.
Booking Dates ecome a member and beat the queues with priority booking (See page 60)
12 Early Release Events On Sale Now Patrons Booking Tuesday 5 January 2016 Pen Friends Booking Tuesday 5 January 2016 Pen Pals Booking Monday 11 January 2016 General Booking Monday 18 January 2016
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