Write stuff for festival

Sep 14 2006 By Alison Dayani

A HOST of literary, political and film stars are opening a new chapter in Birmingham's Book Festival.

Playwright Willy Russell, Smethwick-born actress Julie Walters and protest singer Billy Bragg are among the speakers in this year's literature celebration.

Birmingham's former Guantanamo bay prisoner Moazzam Begg will also answer questions on his experiences, which he has made into a novel.

And the culmination of the festival will come to a close with a late night Poetry Slam by Birmingham Poet Laureate Richard Grant, known as the Dreadlockalien.

Organisers said visitors will enjoy everything from workshops and discussions with artists, along with performances and book signings from October 4-13.

They are especially pleased at attracting such renowned names as Russell, who has penned Blood Brothers, Shirley Valentine and Educating Rita, and Bragg, who will discuss his book The Progressive Patriot, a personal account of his interest in nationality.

"Willy Russell is one of our most successful dramatic writers," said a book festival spokesman.

"He grew up in a family of women and his work has focused on strong but often invisible women. Willy Russell comes to the festival to talk about his writing life."

Book fans will be able to enjoy screenings and talks at a variety of venues across the city including Ikon Eastside, Raddisson SAS Hotel, on the Narrowboat Saltaire, The Pen Museum, in the Jewellery Quarter, and National Trust Back-to-Back houses, in Hurst Street.

* To book tickets ring 0121 303 2323.