Anguilla has just hosted its Fifth Annual Lit Fest, called a Literary Jollification. It was held from May 19-22 with some twenty-three authors and presenters participating in the packed programme.
Of that number, fourteen were regional and international writers and the remaining nine were Anguillians. They all came into close contact with a large number of people including schoolchildren with whom they shared their exemplary work, experience and mentorship.
Writing in the commemorative booklet, which outlined the programme and other information for Lit Fest 2016, Mr. Cardigan Connor, Parliamentary Secretary, Tourism, stated as follows:
“The Government of Anguilla is pleased to endorse this important event. We recognise the value of promoting the development of the literary arts for our people, and especially our young people.
“We are committed to being a part of an event that appeals not only to our residents, but also to visitors in search of authentic island experiences while, at the same time, enabling the preservation, celebration and enhancement of our literary heritage as a people.”
The host hotel for the visiting authors and presenters was Paradise Cove Resort, while CuisinArt Golf Resort & Spa was the sponsoring hotel. In addition, there were various other supporting sponsors in the public and private sectors.
The varied programme included welcome receptions at CuisinArt Golf Resort & Spa and Government House, a Caribbean Cocktail Party at Paradise Cove Resort, writers’ workshops and literacy presentations for students and senior citizens, panel discussions and story-telling.
There have been many favourable comments by the visiting authors and presenters about Lit Fest. Some of the recorded comments are as follows:
“I have been writing fiction for more than thirty years now. The Anguilla Lit Fest left me feeling fresh and new and eager to get back to my fiction” (Mary W. Walters, Author.)
“I love the fun, the joy, and the information shared, along with the interaction attendees have with writers and publishing professionals” (Reginald Oliver, local resident).
“The Anguilla literary festival was beautiful on all levels. Not just in context of scenery, but it was also atmospheric buoyed by the graceful and welcoming people of Anguilla” (Bernice L. McFadden, Author).
“Meeting [the high school students] has been a highlight of my presentation in the Anguilla Lit Fest. The light in these young people’s eyes, the articulate presentation of their ideas, the fact that they have a perspective, are a reminder to me why it matters to back your support for the literary arts” (Joanne C. Hillhouse, Author).
