Vancouver Writers Fest announces it will go digital this fall

    1 of 1 2 of 1

      Like other local arts festivals—indeed, like any other gathering of humans anywhere in the world right now—the Vancouver Writers Fest has been busy reimagining itself in response to COVID-19.

      The organization traditionally produces author readings and literary events throughout the year, peaking in a weeklong festival centred on Granville Island in October that brings local authors and book lovers together with writers from across the country and around the world. Today, the VWF announced its updated plan for this year’s fall edition, taking its time-honoured format online.

      Slated to run from October 19 to 25, the 2020 Vancouver Writers Fest will present a signature mix of author interviews, panels, and collaborations in digital formats ranging from livestreams to podcasts. Along with a satellite series of 10 online literary events between September and December, the program will feature more than 65 fiction and nonfiction authors.

      “The pandemic has necessitated a series of adaptations to how we share our events,” said VWF artistic director Leslie Hurtig in a June 10 media release. “It has also underscored the deep importance of storytelling, community, and listening to new voices and perspectives. The ways in which we can share compelling conversations may have changed, but the thought and passion we put into curating them has not.”

      The full author lineup, as well as the name of this year’s guest curator, will be revealed on July 13.

      Comments