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X-WR-CALNAME:Newark Book Festival
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://www.newarkbookfestival.org.uk
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Newark Book Festival
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260712T130000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260712T143000
DTSTAMP:20260820T175106
CREATED:20260513T141814Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260705T092843Z
UID:7388-1783861200-1783866600@www.newarkbookfestival.org.uk
SUMMARY:Wenallt Star
DESCRIPTION:A bold and immersive live performance with writer/musician David Lambert and Sean South. Blending spoken text\, narration\, and live and recorded music\, this performance brings to life fourteen original texts set against a rich mix of electronic\, punk\, and atmospheric soundscapes. \nDavid Lambert is a Cardiff-born\, Lincolnshire-based writer/musician whose creative journey took an unexpected turn. Whilst completing his second novel – a story of a mixed race\, polyamorous relationship in a post WWII Cardiff – he found himself at an impasse\, so he laid the novel down …  \nSeeking inspiration\, he read fourteen novels in fourteen weeks –  novels that addressed the themes and issues of his unfinished novel: family\, loss\, racism\, memory\, deceit\, bisexuality\, identity\, love – engaging\, as he read\, the cut-up technique made popular by William S. Burroughs\, Brion Gysin and David Bowie\, ending up with something completely new – fourteen unique spoken texts.  Over 14 months\, David collaborated with the musicians Sean South\, Stephen Hudson\, Dave King\, Liz Lenten\, Duncan Chapman\, Natalie Roe and Lucy Leland on the creation of 14 spoken texts to a range of diverse musical settings.  \nDavid added\, ‘The fourteen novels are diverse and cinematic. Each of the album’s 14 compositions are inspired by the books. From Nella Larsens’s 1920s Harlem Renaissance novel ‘Passing’\, which inspired the track ‘…hopeless things … the stars’. The cut-up text from Dodie Smith’s classic novel ‘I Capture The Castle’ inspired the punk soundtrack RESTLESSNESS. Whilst Nadifa Mohammed’s heart-breaking tale\, based on a true story\, The Fortune Men\, with its Tiger Bay backdrop\, saw its cut-up narrative become the nine-minute electronic trance piece ‘The Potion and the Poison’. Quartet in Autumn by Barbara Pym morphed into the 1980s Human League-type production ALL GONE / THAT TIME / THOSE PEOPLE – PAWB WEDI MYND / YR AMSER HYNNW / Y BOBL HYNNY. Each novel inspired a new piece of art. \n“A fascinating exploration of language\, poetry\, improvisation\, electronics\, the human voice and imagination that would crash ChatGPT … BBC RADIO WALES – BBC Introducing – Adam Thomas Walton  \n\n40 min performance\n15 min interval\n20 min interview
URL:https://www.newarkbookfestival.org.uk/event/wenallt-star/
LOCATION:Palace Theatre\, Palace Theatre\, Appleton Gate\, Newark\, Nottinghamshire\, NG24 1JY
CATEGORIES:Performance
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.newarkbookfestival.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Wenallt-Star-Event-Header.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260712T110000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260712T120000
DTSTAMP:20260820T175106
CREATED:20260513T140454Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260627T130809Z
UID:7382-1783854000-1783857600@www.newarkbookfestival.org.uk
SUMMARY:Pilgrim Cello
DESCRIPTION:Pilgrim Cello is a unique account of a unique journey. Travelling with his cello strapped to the front of a heavy cargo bike\, Kenneth Wilson pedals 1\,900 miles on a pilgrimage to all forty-two English cathedrals. \nIn these sacred and historic buildings\, Kenneth unpacks his cello and fills the holy place with the solo music of Bach. He’s offering a Meditation on the last hours and the last words of Christ. His performance of music and poetry connects with people\, with ancient stones\, with history and humanity\, and – perhaps obliquely – with the faith he once had but no longer has. \nJoin him\, and enjoy the ride! \n‘Elegiac\, thoughtful\, and filled with warmth. I loved following his extraordinary journey.’  Ava Glass\, author of Alias Emma and The Traitor.
URL:https://www.newarkbookfestival.org.uk/event/pilgrim-cello/
LOCATION:Tudor Hall\, National Civil War Centre\, National Civil War Centre\, 14 Appleton Gate\, Newark\, Nottinghamshire\, NG24 1JY
CATEGORIES:Book Reading,Performance
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.newarkbookfestival.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Pilgrim-Cello-Event-Header.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260709T103000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260709T233000
DTSTAMP:20260820T175106
CREATED:20260512T134423Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260627T123424Z
UID:7304-1783593000-1783639800@www.newarkbookfestival.org.uk
SUMMARY:Beyond the Blue - Dear Emily
DESCRIPTION:An evocative and poignant collection of songs inspired by the timeless poetry of Emily Dickinson. Through original music\, Beyond the Blue explores the themes we all know so well: the ache of solitude\, the power of hope and the courage it takes to be heard. This is a musical mirror and a letter for everyone who is still finding their voice\, mixing storytelling with captivating songs.
URL:https://www.newarkbookfestival.org.uk/event/beyond-the-blue-dear-emily/
LOCATION:Newark Library Meeting Room\, Beaumond Gardens\, Balderton Gate\, Newark\, NG24 1UW\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Performance
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.newarkbookfestival.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Beyond-the-Blue-Dear-Emily-Event-Header.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250713T190000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250713T210000
DTSTAMP:20260820T175106
CREATED:20250516T184406Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250610T145530Z
UID:6274-1752433200-1752440400@www.newarkbookfestival.org.uk
SUMMARY:Steve's Stage - Open Mic Finale
DESCRIPTION:Close the festival with creativity\, connection\, and celebration at Steve’s Stage: Open Mic Final- a special event held in memory of the late Steve Cawte\, spoken word artist\, performance poet\, playwright\, drama teacher\, and a tireless champion of young voices and the arts.  \nHosted by Leanne Moden\, a Nottingham-based poet\, theatremaker\, and educator\, this finale is a celebration of expression\, community\, and the power of words\, just as Steve would have wanted.  \nCome to perform\, or simply listen and be inspired. Whether you’re a seasoned poet\, a passionate short story writer\, or just starting your creative journey\, take to the Newark Festival Stage to share your creation and be part of a supportive\, vibrant community of word-lovers. \nSteve’s words\, spirit\, and legacy will always be with us. RIP 1982–2024.
URL:https://www.newarkbookfestival.org.uk/event/steves-stage-open-mic-finale/
LOCATION:Newark Town Hall\, Newark Town Hall\, Market Place\, Newark\, Nottinghamshire\, NG24 1DU
CATEGORIES:Performance,Poetry
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.newarkbookfestival.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Steves-Stage.png
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250711T113000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250711T123000
DTSTAMP:20260820T175106
CREATED:20250515T214326Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250515T214327Z
UID:6225-1752233400-1752237000@www.newarkbookfestival.org.uk
SUMMARY:Island Spirit
DESCRIPTION:Join Derby-based songwriting duo –vocalist Nina Blaszczyk and guitarist Phil Baggaley—for a spellbinding musical performance of their latest project\, Island Spirit.  \nKnown for their soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics\, Nina and Phil combine fresh vocal emotion with seasoned musical craft to create a unique and moving live experience. \nIsland Spirit\, based on a story by Tim Harvey\, follows a young Polish woman who travels to a remote Scottish island in search of her roots. Taking a job at a local whisky distillery\, she begins to unravel the story of her mother—and discovers secrets about the father she never knew. Told through original songs and narrative\, the show explores themes of family\, belonging\, identity\, and the powerful pull of the past. \nThis special Edinburgh Fringe preview offers an intimate first look at the musical’s stunning blend of storytelling and song. Between the evocative lyrics and rich acoustic sound\, listeners are transported to windswept coastlines\, hidden histories\, and emotional revelations. With musical influences drawn from Scottish folk traditions\, Island Spirit is both grounded in place and universal in feeling. \nReturning to Newark Book Festival\, Beyond the Blue present a deeply human story with haunting melodies and lyrical beauty. A must-see for fans of folk\, acoustic music\, and poignant tales well told.
URL:https://www.newarkbookfestival.org.uk/event/island-spirit/
LOCATION:Newark Library Meeting Room\, Beaumond Gardens\, Balderton Gate\, Newark\, NG24 1UW\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Music,Performance
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.newarkbookfestival.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Island-Spirit.png
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250710T153000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250710T180000
DTSTAMP:20260820T175106
CREATED:20250515T212215Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250515T212215Z
UID:6221-1752161400-1752170400@www.newarkbookfestival.org.uk
SUMMARY:Wine and Words
DESCRIPTION:Enjoy an afternoon of wine and words at Newark Book Festival with local poets Fiona Theokritoff and Jane Wyles. \nBook your tickets to one of the most popular Newark Book Festival events\, Wine and Words – an early evening of poetry with Fiona and Jane.  \nYou’ll hear their entertaining mix of poems\, as well as some well-loved works\, before adding your own words to the event poem. \nFiona and Jane launched Wine and Words in Newark in 2013 as part of the Nottingham Poetry Festival\, and it has evolved into the regular and popular event it is today\, with audience participation and their own unique poetry too.  \nBook your tickets by calling Fiona directly on 07553 928099. All tickets include a welcome glass of prosecco or soft drink\, plus light refreshments throughout the event.  \nHeld upstairs at Gannets Café\, this venue unfortunately does not have step-free access.
URL:https://www.newarkbookfestival.org.uk/event/wine-and-words-2025/
LOCATION:Gannets Bistro\, Gannets Bistro\, 35 Castle Gate\, Newark\, NG24 1AZ\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Performance,Poetry
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.newarkbookfestival.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Wine-Words.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240714T113000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240714T124000
DTSTAMP:20260820T175106
CREATED:20240507T145546Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240705T131534Z
UID:5038-1720956600-1720960800@www.newarkbookfestival.org.uk
SUMMARY:Confessions of a Teletubby - Nikky Smedley
DESCRIPTION:Tinky Winky\, Dispy\, LaaLaa\, Po! The tune that many lates millenials grew up singing as they watched Teletubbies. And now\, just as that generation reach their late 20s\, LaaLaa is back! But maybe not quite as you remember the cute yellow character… \nDancer\, singer\, actor\, writer and producer Nikky Smedley takes us on the journey of her fascinating career. Divulging the tales of how she went from creating shows about Quantum Physics to famously becoming LaaLaa from Teletubbies. Be warned\, this is not a kids event!  \nA “hilarious\, gossipy and nostalgic” one-woman stage show\, with extracts from her memoir Over the Hills and Far Away. Join us at Palace Theatre during Newark Book Festival to hear more about Nikky Smedley’s fascinating story\, and a hopeful appearance of LaaLaa herself! \nSuitable for 16+\nPlease note: There will be some swearing in this performance.
URL:https://www.newarkbookfestival.org.uk/event/confessions-of-a-teletubby-nikky-smedley/
LOCATION:Byron Room\, Upstairs\, Newark Palace Theatre\, Appleton Gate\, Newark\, NG24 1JY.\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Performance
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.newarkbookfestival.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Confessions-of-a-Teletubby-Nikky-Smedley.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240713T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240713T211000
DTSTAMP:20260820T175106
CREATED:20240507T164551Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240705T084322Z
UID:5004-1720899000-1720905000@www.newarkbookfestival.org.uk
SUMMARY:Count Magnus - Two Ghost Stories by M R James
DESCRIPTION:An unmissable evening at Newark’s Palace Theatre with an atmospheric performance based on the supernatural tales by Montague Rhodes James (1862 – 1936)\, the Master of the English Ghost Story\, performed by Robert Lloyd Parry. \nThe ghost stories of M.R James amuse and terrify as powerfully today as when they were first written over a century ago. Nunkie Theatre Company brings two of these classic spinechillers to life\, in this thrilling one-man show of the Count Magnus Ghost Stories. \nIn Count Magnus\, a travel writer’s over-inquisitiveness leads to a diabolical chase from darkest Sweden to rural Essex. Denmark is the setting for Number 13\, where a hotel room with the famously unlucky number\, conceals a ghastly\, baffling secret. \n“At first they hear nothing at all. Then they hear someone scream\, just as if the most inside part of his soul was twisted out of him.” \n 
URL:https://www.newarkbookfestival.org.uk/event/count-magnus-ghost-stories-the-m-r-james-project/
LOCATION:Palace Theatre\, Palace Theatre\, Appleton Gate\, Newark\, Nottinghamshire\, NG24 1JY
CATEGORIES:Performance
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.newarkbookfestival.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Count-Magnus-Ghost-Stories-The-M.R-James-Project.jpg
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