Political journalist and author George Megalogenis and astronomer Perry Vlahos will be attending this year’s Melbourne Writers Festival. The 11 day festival, from August 22 to September 1, will showcase the best of local and international literary content.
Masterclasses on genres, deconstructing the media and special meet and greets make up just some of the hundreds of events in the festival. George Megalogenis will be part of two events, ‘Culture policy, culture war?’ (Saturday 24 August, 2.30 pm, Deakin Edge. Tickets from $19.50) and ‘Security: Who Decides?’ (Sunday 25 August, 1.00 pm, Deakin Edge. Tickets from $19.50). Megalogenis will be joined by fellow Greek, arts advocate Esther Anatolitis and two others to discuss what a change in government would mean for arts and culture in Australia. Megalogenis then joins a panel of four to discuss how policy decisions shape our personal security, and its increasing relevance during an election year.
Astronomer Perry Vlahos joins fellow stargazer Fred Watson to give their guide to the universe. The talk will encompass illustrations and will show humankind’s growing understanding of the universe. (Sunday 25 August, 1.00 pm at the NGV Theatrette. Tickets $21.50 for adults, $10 for children)
Poet and rapper Luka Lesson joins a panel of eight in a literary cabaret of poetry, music and performance for ‘Linear Notes’. The show pays tribute to the classic album LA Woman by The Doors. (Friday 23 August, 9.00 pm, at the Regal Ballroom. Tickets $25)
Bucking the literary trend, renowned street artist Michael Fikaris will be showing small groups around Melbourne’s hidden laneways in his walking tour of the city’s street art culture. The walking tour is on Friday 23 August, Sunday 25 August and Sunday 1 September, all at 10:30 am. Tickets are $40 for adults and $30 for children.
The festival includes a strong children’s section and promotes many local talents and Australian literature.
For more information and to book tickets, visit www.mwf.com.au. Passes are available to specific sections of the festival.