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From
emerging published author Brian Peters,
speaking about and reading an excerpt from his book; to
Cal Muckle reading one of his short story from his memoirs
that he is
collating into a manuscript; to
Roxy Blanchards’ recent poetry writing receiving an Honorable
Mention in the
Stellar Literary Festival Poetry Contest to reading her poem
for the first time, made it just so amazingly clear, that this
festival was indispensable to celebrate both, emerging authors
and new writers.
It was wonderful to
see the older and younger ones being showcased and celebrated in
Durham Region.
The Poetry Contest Winners, adult and both categories of youth,
so proud when they were presented their certificates and
monetary awards by one of the judges, Ann Peacock. It was their
stellar moment!
The French
community was represented by
Samuel Montas,
who read to us in both French and English, is planning on
returning next year with a group of French writers
participating.
Sharon Lawrence, Featured Speaker from Haliburton,
spoke about her late husbands’ work and the R. D. Lawrence Place
specifically built to house his literary and other works. She
showcased part of his works at the festival.
From Toronto,
Honey Novick
give an awesome performance of her poetry and beautiful singing
voice. She's sang for Pierre Elliot Trudeau, Mayor Miller and
won several awards for her works.
From Brighton,
Richard Grove,
Publisher,
spoke about the publishing industry and also answered questions
from the audience and emails received.
Featured Author and Poet, Allan Briesmaster,
a GTA favourite, read excerpts from his books, including his
newly released Interstellar.
Tim Simms, guest speaker from World Collides,
spoke to us about the world of comics and how it is a stepping
stone to literacy. Tim speaks at various school locally and in
Toronto. The audience gained a different perspective on comics.
Dorothea Helms, Featured Speaker, also known as The Writing
Fairy, had the
audience rapt attention as she spoke about ‘The Four-Letter Word
for Success’.
Featured Poet and Author, John B. Lee, Poet Laureate of
Brantford,
always a delight to hear him read excerpts from his many books,
also honored a special request by reading "Handsome in Our
Pajamas.
Richard Grove is also President of the
Canada Cuba
Literary Alliance and his wife Kim
read a written statement to the festival, received from Manuel
de Jesus Velazquez Leon, Vice President of the CCLA in Cuba,
followed by member readings, making it an international
festival.
A memorable unique
performance created by Heather Whaley,
story teller and singer from Whitby
and Kim Michele,
Harpist from Toronto entitled "Summer Seas & Memories’’ ended
much too soon.
Michael Khashmanian, emerging Playwrite and Director,
spoke about the progression of a play, from concept to a script
and to the actual play creation. With three actors aiding him,
he demonstrated how it all comes together. Most fascinating and
instructive to see it first hand.
Graham Ducker, as Oshawa Branch Manager of The Ontario
Poetry Society,
had some of the members and guests read their poetry. It was a
perfect conclusion to our program and day.
There have been
numerous positive and encouraging
comments
made and e-mailed in appreciation of the festival, the program,
location, the volunteers and looking forward to the Stellar
Literary Festival 2008!
The days’ event confirmed that the festival was
necessary to celebrate Durham Regions’ literary talents, new
and established and this was their occasion to shine and be
celebrated.
This
festival was made possible because
of all the great talent that participated. David Hooker, Thank
you! You’re the BEST! Also great big thank you to the ‘Team’
that helped to make it all come together, Winnie Chapman, John
Duarte, Alex & Kevin, Chester Stocki our videographer,
www.Video-Pro-Motion.com
www.famed.ca
Further info, updates & photos at
www.stellarliteraryfestival.com
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