Comedy, politics and poems head to Stratford’s literary festival

Books, music and theatre are ready to go for the Stratford Literary Festival which will welcome famous faces to celebrate words and honour a long-standing supporter.

The two-week long festival will combine music and words for a host of events including a tribute to TS Eliot, workshops, puppet shows and a tribute evening to poet Felix Dennis.

Running from April 25 to May 3, the programme will work with the Royal Shakespeare Company and welcome famous dames Harriet Walter, and Jacqueline Wilson.

Things will get political in talks by comedian Paul Merton, spin doctor Alastair Campbell and novelist Alexander McCall Smith.

A tribute evening to Felix Dennis (pictured right) - a big supporter of the festival who died in 2014 - entitled ‘Did We Mention The Free Wine?’ will be held at the Artshouse on May 2.

The evening will include anecdotes by writer Hugh Johnson and Dennis’ poems read by actor Robert Lindsay.

Director Annie Ashworth said: “Felix was a very important part of helping the festival. His poetry evenings were hugely popular, and we have permission to read some of his special and poignant poems.”

The festival finishes with a Children’s Day on May 3, which will include workshops and a puppet show written by Michael Rosen.

For tickets, or the line-up, contact 01789 207100 or stratfordliteraryfestival.co.uk