Poets use metaphor to write about the world as it is. So do writers of the fantastic.

Drawing together a group of writers and poets, this promises to be a memorable and entertaining evening.

Liz Lochhead is a poet and playwright with many accolades to her name, including that of Scots Makar, or national poet.

Chaz Brenchley is a writer who crosses genres with fantasy and science fiction, short stories and children's books.

Desmond Graham is a biographer and poet, as well as Emeritus Professor of Poetry at Newcastle University.

Tony Williams is a poet and short story writer, and teaches creative writing at Northumbria University.

The result of the Newcastle Winter Book Festival Short Fiction Prize will be announced this evening with the winner being given the opportunity to read their prize-winning entry.

To book advance tickets check the festival website here: http://newcastlewinterbookfestival.co.uk/

Part of the Newcastle Winter Book Festival (24 to 27 Nov 2011)

The Newcastle Winter Book Festival is a 3 day festival taking place around the city, and the Star and Shadow Cinema is proud to be hosting 3 of its excellent events, with reading, poetry and comedy:

Friday 25th November, 7:00 p.m. - Myth and Metaphor: An evening of poetry, readings and discussion

Special fantasy and poetry night, with readings from the fabulous Chaz Brenchley (award-winning, genre-crossing British author of fantasy, crime and SF), Desmond Graham (poet and ex Professor of Poetry at Newcastle University) and Tony Williams (poet) + more guests!

Saturday 26th November, 7:00 p.m. - Comedy and crime night

We are very excited to announce that Simon Donald, co-founder of Viz, cartoonist, great stand-up comedian and generally funny Geordie man will be at the cinema to talk about his autobiography ‘Him Off The Viz’. This book describes his 24 wild and weird years on Viz. + Mystery guests to be announced! 

Sunday 27th November, 7:00 p.m. - Readings, music and fun!

Expect readings, music and fun from Hugh Cornwell, the lead singer/songwriter/guitarist in The Stranglers, who will chat about his novel Window on the World – punchy, well-plotted, and with a sinister edge - and Doug Johnstone, musician and author of Smokeheads – his debut on the Faber crime list is a classic violent thriller, doused with black humour. Also, join us for a post-Festival bash!