I haven't been to the Sydney Writer's Festival for a long time. I think the last time I attended was before my daughter was born, so at least 10 years ago. I can't tell you how excited I am to be going again.
More information about the festival can be found here: Sydney Writers' Festival.
It's being operated quite differently. When I used to attend annually, easily most of the events were at no cost to the attendee and I think that there were also more events (although I accept it's been a while and that could just be an issue of memory). The main difference I have observed is that now many of the events charge an entry free of around $30.00 - $40.00 per event.
My concern is that by introducing fees for all events, the festival may unintentionally shape its audience, making it more accessible to those with financial means while discouraging participation from others. This not only limits the diversity of perspectives in the conversation but also reduces opportunities for those with reduced financial means to engage with new ideas and authors. On the other hand, I accept that with the significantly increased costs associated with just about everything these days, I can see the Writer's Festival has probably been left with little choice.
What is great is that it is now possible to purchase lower costs live stream tickets for the weekend - meaning that for a far more affordable cost you can watch a few of the events from the comfort of your own living room.
I'm very privileged to be able to go to 3 paid events this year, along with having purchased live stream tickets for both the Saturday and Sunday. I am going to see so many authors that I have read recently and am so excited to be seeing. Firstly Hannah Kent - whose books I've been in love with since I first read Burial Rites. I am going to see Shankari Chandran as well - although I haven't read anything by Chandran yet, I have about 3 of her books on my kobo wish list so this will give me impetus to read some. I read the Ministry of Time by Kaliane Bradley this year and really enjoyed it, such a fun book - and I am lucky enough to be seeing her at one of the events. Last year I also read Butter by Asako Yuzuki, and although I had mixed feelings about it, and I am so excited to be seeing her speak with one of my livestream tickets.
The festival isn't until May 2025, so I have a lot of weeks of anticipation before it arrives. Are you going? If you happen to see this, I would love to know what you are looking forward to seeing.
.webp)
No comments