The achievements of
Victoria University’s International Institute of Modern Letters (IIML) will be
celebrated this weekend at a gathering which will bring together some of New
Zealand’s leading contemporary writers.
“This weekend is about
showcasing our outstanding graduates, celebrating a vibrant community and
having a good time,” says Damien Wilkins, Director of the IIML.
As
part of the celebration, the documentary 13 Ways of Looking at a Blackbird,
will screen at the Paramount Theatre on Saturday 28 September. It was made by
documentary filmmaker Richard Riddiford and supported by Victoria University’s
Research Office.
Filmed in 2012, it offers
the first extended view inside the community of writers based around the IIML
and Victoria University Press.
Featuring leading figures
such as Bill Manhire, Fergus Barrowman, Elizabeth Knox and Ken Duncum, the film
explores the teaching of creative writing and profiles some of the newer
generation of writers, including Man Booker Prize shortlisted novelist Eleanor
Catton, Pip Adam, Tina Makereti and Lawrence Patchett.
Mr Wilkins hopes the film
explodes a few myths about the Wellington literary scene.
On Sunday evening, the
IIML’s first-ever alumni reading event will take place at Circa Theatre.
“While we’ve always been
active through our various public outreach programmes, we’ve never held an
alumni event, so it’s a very special couple of days,” he says.
An exciting mix of poets,
scriptwriters and fiction writers will take part, including Carl Shuker, Hinemoana
Baker, Frankie Samuel, Kirsten McDougall, Gavin McGibbon, Gigi Fenster,
Lawrence Patchett, Martha Hardy Ward, Ashleigh Young, Eli Kent, Rob Hack and
Kerry Donovan-Brown.
The idea for the evening
reading is that each year of the Masters in Creative Writing taught at the IIML
is represented by one writer.
Film screening: 13 Ways of
Looking at a Blackbird
When: Saturday 28 September, 3.30pm
Venue: Paramount Theatre, 25 Courtenay Place, Wellington
IIML Alumni Reading
When: Sunday 29 September 7.30pm
Venue: Circa Theatre, Wellington
There is limited seating and booking is recommended.
For
more information contact Damien Wilkins,
Director of the International Institute of Modern Letter, on (04) 463 6808 or
email damien.wilkins@vuw.ac.nz.
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