Wakefield District’s annual celebration of words, WordFest, is back in May.
Hundreds of free and exciting events, from author talks and storytelling to music and film showings, will take place throughout the month, in local libraries and community venues.
Organised by the Council’s Library Service, the festival has something for everyone.
Mark Lynam, Corporate Director for Regeneration and Economic Growth, said: “WordFest has proved to be popular and much loved. I am delighted to see it return.
“This year’s programme of events is varied and there is the opportunity for people of all ages and abilities to be creative, have fun or learn something new.
“The majority of our events are in our wonderful libraries and there will be something happening at one close to you. I would encourage you to come along.”
There will be a chance to explore language using the latest Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology. Artist, Leigh de Vries, is running a session for people to get hands-on experience with AI tools and create something new.
Families can enjoy a newly commissioned performance by Edgeland Arts in their enchanting puppetry show of ‘The Magic Paintbrush’ as well as theatre performances of the ‘Hare and Moon Suitcase Show’ by Eye of Newt. At the end of the show, members of the audience can make their own Hare ‘and Moon Lantern’ to take away.
Arts and craft workshops are also on offer for young people. They can learn collage and zine techniques and how to write Chinese letters.
Artist Jessica Grady will be teaching adults with an artistic flair how to hand-stitch and embellish a bag design.
Authors and illustrators Harry Heape and Liz Million are providing fun, interactive workshops for families, including how to build comic characters.
Toddlers can enjoy a special WordFest Storytime that will take place each week of May.
They will be able to join in with the stories, songs, and rhymes whilst learning Makaton which is a visual way to communicate used in many nurseries and schools.
