Cerys Matthews performs the works of Dylan Thomas at Luton’s Wordfest

They include a visit from BBC Radio 6 presenter and singer, Cerys Matthews, as she performs the words of Welsh poet Dylan Thomas at Luton Library Theatre; local author Stephen Kelman talking about his life and his works including his novel Pigeon English, at Luton Central Library; and film director, Tony Klinger giving an insightful glimpse of the Rock music industry with his Rockumentary talk at The Hat Factory.

There is also plenty of comedy, with multi award winning Gina Yashere, Andrew O’Neill’s: The History of Heavy Metal and The Hat Factory’s own comedy bar compere Jake Pickford to tickle your ribs and get you laughing. On a more serious note, there will be three film and discussion events on the theme of Culture in Conflict.

For families and children, the festival offers engaging theatre events including Handa’s Surprise at community centres and Captain Flinn and the Pirate Dinosaurs at Luton Library Theatre. Luton Libraries are offering Bookstart Rhyme Times, World Book Day events and a Family Fun Day at Luton Central Library. Also on offer are workshops and literature readings with published authors, including Chris Tutton, Lesley McKenna, Ed Cox and Tim Jarvis amongst others.

Most of the events take place at Luton Culture venues, including Luton Libraries, the Library Theatre, The Hat Factory, Wardown Park Museum, Stockwood Discovery Centre, and the community centres. A few events take place at other venues across the town; for full listings information, and to book tickets, go to www.lutonculture.com or call the Box Office on 01582 878100. You can also pick up a Wordfest brochure from your local library.