THE recent Franschhoek Literary Festival (FLF) saw ticket sales up by approximately 50%, and about 3 000 visitors, despite the pouring rain.
And what a weekend it was! Howling wind and 100mm of rain, swiftly-running gutters, mud everywhere – aptly renamed “book weather”.
There were 42 events and 56 writers, poets and chair people. Over 3 400 tickets were sold, with approximately 1 000 more tickets sold than last year. A bevy of publishers watched, listened and held candlelit dinners. Cameras flashed everywhere.
In three short years the FLF has grown into a respected celebration of books and writers with an international reputation. This is made possible by a large annual donation by the Delta Trust, the generosity of local guest-house owners who give accommodation for the visiting writers, a huge amount of hard work by the FLF Committee, and a squad of willing volunteers over the weekend.
“We are delighted with the results achieved this year and encouraged by the support that the authors and writers give us,” said Jenny Hobbs author and organiser.
Some of the high-lights of a weekend of spirited debates included the lively discussion in the packed School Hall with charismatic Vikas Swarup, author of Q&A that became the Oscar grabbing movie, Slumdog Millionaire, a rush on the ticket sales table when Zapiro joined the programme line-up, and a hint that André P Brink’s next book might be set partly in Franschhoek.
The first South African Wine Writers Prize, including a unique “certificate” (artwork) designed by Pippa Skotnes, was handed over to Joanne Gibson, the winner.
Many of the authors visited local schools to do writing work- shops; others visited the prison.
With its growing reputation, the FLF is approaching additional donors to be able to ask more writers and attract young people – though does not intend to get too much bigger, because this is a village festival with a unique character.
