Regaled as a pilgrimage for black writers and readers -of course- it has been scheduled from December 7 to 10 2017 at Eyethu Lifestyle Center (Mofolo) and Soweto Theatre (Jabulani), respectively.
The book fest envisions itself as a sanctuary for its participants and visitors, and requests that this sanctity be respected. So, young and old are invited.
It was founded by novelist Thando Mgqolozana following the Rhodes Must Fall movement in 2016.
“The line-up hints at a lively and highly topical program, featuring panel discussions, in-conversations, poetry, hands-on writing workshops, children’s activities, film screenings, as well as music,” Mgqolozana said.
“Visitors should look forward to an Abantu weekend that grapples with, interrogates, and illuminates the stories of black lives.”
This is where our finest poets, novelists, playwrights, biographers, literary scholars, musicians, actors, activists, thinkers, and readers from as far as can be imagined, take over the historic location of Soweto and make it a literary village, over four days.
It boasts celebrated Lebo Mashile, Lesego Rampolokeng to Zakes Mda, Zubeida Jaffer, Gcina Mhlophe, Keorapetse Kgosietsile, Mandla Langa, Ayobami Adebayo, Bongani Mandono and Angela Makholwa, amongst others.
Eyethu Center will host free daily shows from 9am, whereas Soweto Theater host evening shows for only R20.
‘Imagining ourselves into existence’ that is the theme for this year.
For more information go to www.abantubookfestival.co.za
