Opening Doors – Opportunities for Poets

Here at Kendal Poetry Festival headquarters, we have been plotting and planning – please read on for information about our new project – and spread the word to anyone you know who might be interested!

Opening Doors

Are you a writer who would like to attend the festival but can’t afford to financially?

We are running a pilot project this year where we are offering the chance for two writers to attend the 2018 festival.  Each writer will receive a Festival Pass which will enable them to attend any of the readings, discussions during the weekend, plus the Saturday open-mic.   Both writers will be hosted by a member of Brewery Poets in their home from Thursday 6^th September to Sunday 9^th September.

We would like to offer this opportunity to writers who would benefit from a weekend of immersion in poetry, but who would not be able to attend without some financial assistance.

Things to note:

1. Travel is not included.
2. Writers need to have their own transport or be physically able to walk. The festival venue is about a 40 minute walk from where you will be staying.
3. You will have your own bedroom but will be sharing a bathroom. Bedrooms are at the top of the house, so you will need to be able to climb stairs.
4. Your host will provide a help-yourself-breakfast, but you will need to provide your own lunch/dinner.  Tea, coffee and sandwich making facilities will be available.
5. There is the opportunity to perform at our ‘Writing Summit’ Open Mic event on Thursday 6th September but this is not compulsory.

To apply please send an email to team@kendalpoetryfestival.co.uk with the following information:

1. One document with your name, date of birth, email address and a short biography (100 words).
2. A 200 word statement outlining why it would be difficult for you to attend without a bursary and how you would benefit from the opportunity.
3. Contact details (Email) of a referee – someone who knows your work and knows you personally.
4. Please include all of this information in one Microsoft Word document.

Deadline for submission is May 31^st.  Decisions will be made by mid-June and we will reply by email to all applicants.