Prehen House to host Big Oak festival

Bestselling Belfast author Colin Bateman and Derry's own Jennifer Johnston will headline the first ever Big Oak Literary and Arts Festival which will take place in Prehen this September.

Describing the event as the ‘first of it’s kind’ in the North West, John O’Neill, festival director, says this is a "glimpse of things to come.”

"This event is really the acorn from which the Big Oak will mature to meet the challenge of City of Culture in 2013,” he says.

Organised by the Brown Envelope Poetry Society, the event will not only feature some of the key figures on the local literary scene but a number of local musicians, poets and comedians.

Society chairperson Pamela Brown says: "It's important that we provide access for all to the arts and this event will enable everyone to sample the very best of local, national and international contributors all wrapped up in one big garden party - a real family day out!"

Celebrated authors Colin Bateman and Jennifer Johnston will give readings and meet their fans in the Library of Prehen House.

Gerry Anderson, Anita Robinson, Dave Duggan, Jason Johnson and the Welsh writer Niall Griffiths will also read and discuss their varied styles and approaches to writing.

Rising star Meadbh McGinley will wow her audience on piano as will the vibrant Norbatious (Chris & Colin Norby) and Buncrana born baritone Eamonn Hutchinson will complete the recital programme.

There's comedy with the surreal Kevin McAleer ably supported by stand-ups and Edinburgh Festival veterans, Sorcha Shanahan and Ciaran Flanagan, of 'Love the Concept' fame.

The Poetry Chicks, Connor Kelly, Frank Rafferty and all Ireland poetry slam winner Seamus Fox will rock the rafters in the 'barn' with an afternoon menu of contemporary poetry.

Meanwhile, out on the lawn the legendary Henry McCullough (Wings/Joe Cocker/Woodstock) will head a powerful music line up including Bronagh Gallagher, Paul Casey, Paddy Nash & the Happy Enchilladas, Bodhicitta and more to be announced.

The day is completed by the clown duo Boris & Ricardo performing thier hilarious version of Houdinis 'Metamorphosis', an all day Art workshop for younger festival goers, art exhibits and weird and wonderful mechanical creations from the Enniskillen artist and model maker Gordon Johnson.

The event will take place on September 18. Tickets are prices at 12, with children under 12 (accompanied by an adult) going free. To find out more log on to www.bigoakartsfest.com. Online Tickets from - http://www.eventelephant.com/bigoakarts