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Isle Of Wight Story Festival Kicks Off This Week With Theme Of 'Inclusion'

With less than a week to go until the fourth annual Isle of Wight Story Festival, organisers have reiterated the message of inclusion the event promotes.

The festival runs from Thursday (February 16) until Saturday (18) — with all shows taking place at the Quay Arts.  

Former CBeebies presenter Cerrie Burnell, who will speak about her book "Wilder Than Midnight", has broken down barriers, challenged stereotypes and overcome discrimination during her career.

She says she wishes to increase visibility of disabled people through presenting, writing, and acting.

Author Julia Tuffs, who will headline on the Thursday of the festival will speak about her books Hexed and Twice Hexed.

The stories feature a girl called Jessie, who’s strange powers start to manifest during crippling period pains.

Select events - including Cerrie Burnell’s - will also feature communication support.


Laura Ellen Anderson is another headline name giving a talk on Saturday

This year's event will include live music for the first time, and leading the lineup are 1980s popstar Simon Whitworth and local singer/songwriter Doug Alldred.

Amy Jolliffe, Black Daniels, JC and Kathy Grimshaw, Ruby Bodenham and The Solar Escape will also all perform.

All live music will be completely free to watch in the Quay Arts cafe - the IW Story Festival hopes to give the experience of live music to young people who may not usually be able to access live gigs.

Horrible Histories and Ghosts star Simon Farnaby will headline on Saturday (February 18), the same day as Laura Ellen Anderson and Jamie Littler.

Kieran Larwood will headline on Friday, speaking about his book "The Treekeepers."

Meanwhile, the Horsebox Theatre will provide entertainment with their play The Lighthouse Keeper on the same day.

More information can be found on the IW Story Festival website.

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