From Thursday, 5th June to Sunday, 8th June, our very own Clevedon will be buzzing with stories, author talks, films, music, poetry, and art, all inspired by the magnificent sea. Yes, it’s the Clevedon LitFest 2025, with its “Making Waves” theme. This isn’t just your average book festival; “Making Waves” is a carefully curated immersion into the heart of seaside culture and its profound influence on literature, art, and our collective imagination. The programme is a rich tapestry woven from salt-sprayed myths, maritime memoirs, and the fresh voices of contemporary authors who are making significant ripples in the literary world. Honestly, narrowing down what to see has been a challenge, but in this blog, I’m excited to share the events that have particularly caught my eye!
FRIDAY 6TH JUNE
SCREENING: THE SALT PATH FOLLOWED BY A CONVERSATION WITH RAYNOR WINN, CURZON CINEMA, 7.00 p.m. – 10.30 p.m., £12 SOLD OUT!
This is one I couldn’t miss! This unique event beautifully intertwines the power of film with the intimate insights of the author behind the remarkable true story.
Following this poignant cinematic journey, we will have the extraordinary opportunity to hear directly from the best-selling author herself, Raynor Winn. She will be joined by one of the film’s co-producers, the acclaimed Elizabeth Karlsen, for a post-screening Q&A session. This promises to be an engaging and insightful conversation, bridging the worlds of literature and film.
“The Salt Path” is a profoundly moving and inspiring true story, now brought to life on screen, starring the talented Gillian Anderson and Jason Isaacs. Directed by Marianne Elliott and adapted for the screen by Rebecca Lenkiewicz, the film vividly portrays Raynor and her husband, Moth Winn’s, courageous decision to embark on a transformative 630-mile trek along the breathtaking yet challenging South West Coast Path. Facing the devastating loss of their home, their walk becomes a testament to their enduring resilience and the healing power of nature as they seek solace and acceptance with only a tent and essential supplies to sustain them.
Raynor Winn is the celebrated author behind not just “The Salt Path,” but also the Sunday Times bestsellers “The Wild Silence” and “Landlines” Her deeply personal and evocative memoirs have captivated a global audience, selling over 2 million copies and being translated into more than 25 languages. Her debut, “The Salt Path,” garnered significant acclaim, receiving the Royal Society of Literature’s Christopher Bland Prize and earning nominations for the prestigious Costa Biography Award and the Wainwright Prize for Nature Writing. “The Wild Silence” also received a Wainwright Prize nomination. In a testament to its enduring impact, The Sunday Times recognised “The Salt Path” as one of the top 100 books of the past 50 years in 2024, affirming its status as a contemporary classic.
Beyond her powerful storytelling, Raynor Winn is a dedicated long-distance walker. Her commitment extends to charitable endeavours, as demonstrated by her participation in the 2024 London Marathon to raise crucial awareness and funds for Corticobasal Degeneration research. Her writing beautifully explores the interconnectedness of nature, the experience of homelessness, our deep relationship with the land, and the profound therapeutic benefits of walking. Currently residing in Cornwall with her husband, Moth, Raynor is eagerly working on her fourth book, promising further insights into her remarkable life and perspectives.
The presence of Elizabeth Karlsen adds another significant dimension to this event. An internationally acclaimed filmmaker and BAFTA winner for her Outstanding Contribution to British Cinema, Karlsen is also the co-founder of Number 9 Films. Her impressive career boasts a remarkable 52 BAFTA nominations and wins, alongside 20 Academy Award nominations and wins, confirming her status as a significant figure in the film industry. The Curzon Cinema proudly counts Elizabeth as one of its Patrons, making her involvement even more special.
To further immerse yourselves in Raynor Winn’s poignant storytelling, all three of her highly praised memoirs can be bought with your film tickets via the Curzon’s online checkout. Books on the Hill, the Festival’s valued partner, is providing these books and will also facilitate signings for pre-orders on the evening of the event.
I wasn’t at all surprised that these tickets went so fast!
“With understated performances from Gillian Anderson and Jason Isaacs, as well as immersive land and soundscapes that enhance the thematic pull, this portrait of loss, humanity and rebirth makes it worth the emotional investment.” Variety Courtney Howard – Top Critic
“The film’s cinematography is eye-catching, the English summer landscapes vibrant with lush greens and burnt yellows. And despite its downbeat underlying theme, the film ends up being a gorgeous tourist ad for the area.” Weekend Notes Nicholas Gordan
” …an intelligent, bittersweet drama with well-placed moments of humour and humanity.” Stephen Romei The Australian Top Critic
SATURDAY 7TH JUNE
I was initially a little concerned about a potential clash between the vibrant atmosphere of the Clevedon Bandstand and some of the author talks I was looking forward to on Saturday. However, a huge thank you to the brilliant festival organisers! They’ve worked their magic with the schedule, offering cleverly staggered times at the Bandstand.
RIDING THE WAVES – SUZANNAH V. EVANS 11.00 a.m.
“Riding the Waves” promises to be a captivating poetry performance by the acclaimed Suzannah V. Evans. Her poems will chart a course through diverse waterways, from the silent depths where ancient amphoras lie sleeping beneath the surface, to the bustling energy of a working boatyard nestled in the heart of Bristol. Feel the spray of the open sea as her words carry you beyond the horizon, exploring the power, beauty, and mystery of all things water.
Whether you’re a seasoned poetry enthusiast or simply drawn to the allure of water, this performance promises a unique and enriching experience. Suzannah’s words will wash over you, leaving you refreshed and inspired by the fluid beauty of language and the watery world it depicts.
RIMSKI & HANDKERCHIEF – MOBILE PERFORMANCE 12.00 p.m., 2.00 p.m., AND 4.00 p.m.
Rimski & Handkerchief are described as a musical clown duo specialising in street theatre, walkabout and static shows, and creating “pop-up worlds” in various spaces. The duo will meander through the crowds at the Bandstand with their marvellous musical machines: the Piano bicycle and the Double Bassicle. They perform timeless songs and an extraordinary dance on wheels, creating a spectacle of extreme eccentricity and silliness interspersed with moments of moving beauty. Their performance will leave you questioning everything from the laws of thermodynamics to the mystery of how Rimski steers his contraption!
“Hi there, I just wanted to say I saw you in Stratford on Saturday while I was visiting with my family for a birthday treat. None of us had seen your act before and all came away talking about you! Your act was nothing short of exquisite- my aunt (whose birthday we were celebrating) was in awe of your voice and the spectacle of watching you be chased by children wanting to put pennies in your hat! It really made her day. I just wanted to say thank you for adding some unexpected magic to our family day out! Best of luck with your work, Alex from Leicester.”
“Hi. You did the best version I have ever heard, of Send In The Clowns today in Stratford, it was amazing. It’s one of my favourite songs. Thank you.” Lauren Barker
“…It was lovely to meet you yesterday and see you perform. It’s artists like yourselves who make the world a happier and saner place” Janys Lomax
BARNACLE BUOYS – SEA SHANTIES 1.00 p.m. AND 3.00 p.m.
The Barnacle Buoys are a local, North Somerset-based group of a cappella singers who bring a lively and engaging atmosphere to their performances. Their music is rooted in the tradition of sea shanties, which are inherently rousing, communal, and often tell tales of the sea. Given their history of performing on Clevedon Pier and their aim to entertain audiences while raising money for local charities such as the incredible work of Children’s Hospice South West and the RNLI, their presence on the seafront always creates a warm, community-spirited experience that perfectly complements the seaside setting.
These Bandstand events provide a lively and engaging way to experience the Festival’s themes in a public and accessible setting. And they are free!
HOW TO BATHE IN THE SEA: NAKED GEORGIANS TO ART DECO LIDOS – ALLAN BRODIE AT WALTON PARK HOTEL, 12.00 p.m. – 1.00 p.m., £6
This talk by Allan Brodie sounds fascinating, and it’s one of the events I’m most looking forward to at the Festival. In fact, it’s one of my top picks!
There’s a lovely quote in the programme from Sir John Floyer’s in 1700 which perfectly sets the stage for what promises to be a charming journey through England’s seaside history:
“Since we live in an Island, and have the Sea about us, we cannot want an excellent Cold Bath, which will both preserve our Healths, and cure many Diseases,”
However, for me, it’s not just a general history; it’s also a local history, and that makes it even more compelling. I’m intrigued by the evolution of sea bathing, from its relatively uninhibited Georgian beginnings – the “naked” aspect and the “accompanying sexual frisson” certainly pique my curiosity! – to the more formal and even musical experiences, like George III’s sea-bound concerts. It’s hard to imagine such a contrast!
The transition to the era of respectable bathing machines and the social implications of gender segregation at the beach also sounds like a rich area to explore. I’ve often wondered about the old bathing machines I’ve seen in historical photos of Clevedon, and I’m keen to learn more about how they influenced the beach-going experience. And then, of course, the joyous arrival of the inter-war lidos – those iconic symbols of leisure and Art Deco style – I can already picture their scenes. The warning about “some nudity and occasional mentions of knitted swimming costumes” adds a lovely touch of historical detail and perhaps a bit of humour! I’m sure there will be some amusing anecdotes.
Allan Brodie’s extensive knowledge, as a founding member of the Seaside Heritage Network and the author of numerous acclaimed books on the English seaside, including England’s Seaside Resorts, The Seafront, and studies on places such as Blackpool and Weston-super-Mare, assures us that we’re in for a very well-informed presentation. I’m especially interested to hear his perspective on how Clevedon fits into this broader narrative of seaside bathing history. I’m hoping he might even have some specific insights or stories related to Clevedon’s bathing traditions.
CALL ME ISHMAELLE – WHALES AND BATTLES – XIAOLU GUO AT THE RIFF CORNER, 2.00 p.m. – 2.45 p.m. £6
As part of my selection for this year’s festival, I’m so pleased to be going to the presentation by Xiaolu Guo, an author whose work has deeply resonated with me. We’ll be diving into her two latest books: My Battle of Hastings, a moving exploration of identity and belonging that speaks to the universal experience of finding one’s place, and the boldly reimagined Call Me Ishmael, her courageous take on Melville’s Moby-Dick.
Xiaolu Guo is a literary force, the author of eleven influential books, including the novels A Concise Chinese-English Dictionary for Lovers, a Women’s Prize for Fiction shortlist, Village of Stone (whose nomination for the International Dublin Literary Award highlighted its profound storytelling), and A Lover’s Discourse (a Goldsmiths Prize contender that offered such insightful perspectives on relationships). Her memoir, Once Upon A Time In The East, which deservedly won the National Book Critics Circle Award in 2017, offered a raw and honest account of personal transformation that stayed with me long after I finished reading.
She will be talking about:
- Melville’s enduring legacy and why this classic continues to inspire and challenge writers like herself.
- The intriguing concept of polytheism, exploring its diverse manifestations and what it tells us about human belief systems.
- The powerful symbolism of transoceanic voyages, reflecting on journeys across vast distances and their metaphorical significance in literature and life.
- The wisdom of Taoism, unpacking its principles and how they might inform our understanding of the world.
- The complexities of cross-dressing, examining its social, cultural, and literary representations.
- The enigmatic insights of the I Ching
“Every time Xiaolu Guo publishes a new book I devour it immediately, and MY BATTLE OF HASTINGS was no exception. This is urgent, compelling, but also delightful writing, a book about war unlike any you’ll ever read. Guo writes with a lightness of touch that belies the seriousness of her subject.” Lauren Elkin
“In Call Me Ishmaelle Xiaolu Guo has crafted a dramatically different, feminist narrative that stands alongside the original while offering a powerful exploration of nature, gender and human purpose.” London Review Bookshop
“Guo’s narrative style in Call Me Ishmaelle is full of energy and deftly incorporates philosophical questions about our relationship with nature and gender-dysphoria into the plot, constantly tugging at the heartstrings. The dangers of being a woman are ultimately met with Ishmaelle’s silent resignation: “You are a woman and this kind of thing was bound to happen, sooner or later.” The New Statesman Zuzanna Lachendro
SUMMER OF SOUL WITH DJ NGAIO + MOTOWN POETRY AWARDS AT THE CURZON 7.00 p.m. – 10.00 p.m.
DJ Ngaio will be on the decks to set the mood for this evening at the Curzon Cinema, so make sure you arrive early.
The highlight of the evening will be the announcement of the £1,000 prize winner for the Motorcitysixty Poetry Competition. The guest judge for this prestigious award is Grammy-nominated Adam White, a renowned expert on all things Tamla Motown and author of “Motown: The Sound of Young America,” alongside Barney Ales, right-hand man to Berry Gordy, the founder of Motown Records.
Summer of Soul (…Or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised) is a 2021 American documentary film directed by Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson. The film centres around the 1969 Harlem Cultural Festival, a music festival that took place over six Sundays in the summer of 1969 at Mount Morris Park (now Marcus Garvey Park) in Harlem, New York City.
The documentary sheds light on a significant cultural event that was largely overlooked by mainstream media at the time, particularly in comparison to the attention given to Woodstock, which also took place that summer. Over 300,000 people attended the Harlem Cultural Festival to celebrate Black pride, culture, and music.
“Summer of Soul” features never-before-seen archival footage of incredible performances by a wide array of legendary Black artists, including: Stevie Wonder, Nina Simone, Sly and the Family Stone, Gladys Knight & the Pips, Mahalia Jackson, B.B. King, The 5th Dimension, The Staple Singers, David Ruffinand many more.
The film goes beyond just the music, providing important historical and cultural context for the festival. It highlights the social and political climate of 1969, including the Civil Rights Movement, Black Pride, and the sense of community that the festival fostered.
The footage, which sat in a basement for nearly 50 years, was rediscovered and brilliantly compiled by Questlove. The film not only restores these powerful performances but also emphasises the significance of this historical event.
The documentary interweaves archival footage with contemporary interviews from individuals who were present, including performers and organisers, offering personal reflections and insights into the festival’s impact.
The film highlights the festival’s significance in celebrating Black culture, fostering unity, and providing a space for joy and spiritual well-being during a period of profound social upheaval in America.
Summer of Soul was highly acclaimed and received numerous awards, including:
* Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature
* BAFTA Award for Best Documentary
* Grammy Award for Best Music Film20
* Sundance Film Festival Grand Jury Prize and Audience Award for Best Documentary21
* Critics’ Choice Documentary Awards for Best Documentary Feature, Best Director (tie), Best First Documentary Feature, Best Editing, Best Archival Documentary, and Best Music Documentary22
* Producers Guild of America Award for Outstanding Producer of Documentary Motion Pictures
* And many others.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s powerful “I have a dream” speech has long been an inspiring soundtrack for change, a significance deeply acknowledged by Motown through its recording of his speeches and its role in preserving this historic moment. In a similar vein, The Summer of Soul is a vital and vibrant documentary that resurrects another powerful soundtrack of that era: a pivotal moment in music and Black cultural history.
“Summer of Soul illuminates the role music and fashion play in our lives; how they reflect change and nudge it along in an endless cycle.” BBC Caryn James – Top Critic
“An outstanding archival work, it digs up beautiful footage of the 1969 Harlem Cultural Festival-a rapturous celebration of music that featured acts such as Sly & the Family Stone, Stevie Wonder, Nina Simone, and Gladys Knight & the Pips.” David Sims The Atlantic – Top Critic
“It is the film of 2021 so far.” Danny Leigh The Financial Times – Top Critic
SUNDAY 8TH JUNE.
THE MERMAID, THE OTTER AND THE BIG POO LINDSEY COLE 3.00 PM – 4.00 PM. AT THE THEATRE SHOP
As a long-time admirer of Mermaid Lindsey Cole, I love her innovative and thought-provoking approach to environmental awareness. I urge anyone with children to see this show about sewage pollution. Although I don’t have a child who would typically attend, I’m hoping to ‘borrow’ one to take along to this ‘poo-busting fun’.
Lindsey isn’t your average campaigner; she’s an environmental adventurer who understands how to capture imaginations. You might remember her incredible feat of swimming the entire length of the River Thames as a mermaid, such a powerful way to campaign against the plastic pandemic.
Her aim during this 200-mile swim in November 2018, from near the source of the Thames in Gloucestershire to Teddington in London, was to raise awareness about the issue of single-use plastic and its harmful impact on waterways and marine life. It was during these watery adventures that Lindsey realised the power of her mermaid persona as a tool to connect with children about crucial environmental issues.
To further highlight the problem, she was accompanied by a support boat carrying “Samantha,” a large mermaid sculpture constructed entirely from plastic bottles. Along her journey, she encouraged public participation in collecting litter to add to this poignant art piece. More recently, her commitment took a decidedly more… sculptural turn, as she famously towed her giant poo sculpture from Wales to Clevedon, braving the Bristol Channel and navigating the Bristol Avon.
More recently, her commitment took a decidedly more… sculptural turn, as she famously towed her giant poo sculpture from Wales to Clevedon, braving the Bristol Channel and navigating the Bristol Avon.
Here’s a little more about Lindsey. In addition to being an environmental campaigner, Lynsey is also a great adventurer, author, and speaker. She earned the fitting moniker “Mermaid” through her dedicated environmental activism, frequently taking to rivers, lakes, and the sea, adorned with her mermaid tail to spotlight critical issues like plastic pollution choking our waterways. This “Urban Mermaid” adventure in the Thames garnered significant media attention and served as the inspiration for her children’s book, “The Mermaid and the Cow,” which recounts her Thames swim, including the rescue of a cow she encountered, and imparts an environmental message to young readers.
Drawing inspiration from her incredible environmental adventures, Lindsey has penned engaging children’s books such as “The Mermaid and the Cow” and “The Mermaid, the Otter and the Big Poo.” These delightful stories aim to connect with young audiences on these important topics in a way that is both fun and easily understandable. Her books have even been adapted into appealing shows that have graced the stages of renowned festivals, such as Glastonbury and the Edinburgh Fringe.
Lindsey is a passionate communicator who frequently visits schools and various events to share her stories and environmental messages. She often embodies her mermaid persona during these engagements, captivating children through immersive storytelling and interactive workshops.
Before she became the beloved “Urban Mermaid,” Lindsey was already a seasoned adventurer with an impressive track record. Her past exploits include cycling the entire length of Africa, undertaking a remarkable walk across the vastness of Australia, retracing the historic Rabbit Proof Fence, and even roller-skating across significant distances.
In all her work, Lindsey masterfully combines her deep love for adventure, her innate talent for storytelling, and her unwavering commitment to the environment. Her ultimate goal is to inspire people, especially children, to develop a deep sense of care and responsibility for protecting our waterways.
“Dear Lindsey-the-super-fantastic-mind-boggling-exploring-adventurer, My life is now complete because you taught me to never put aside my dreams and go adventuring and do crazy stuff and scare my mum.” Tim, 12, Essex
“Lindsey is a wonderful story teller. Inspiring, powerful yet so down to earth and human. The Tribe loved every minute of her talk.”– The Onion Co Working Space, Ubud, Bali
“While many people hope to follow in the footsteps of their heroes, few are willing to trek 1600km through Western Australia’s inhospitable outback to do so. Yet, that is what British adventurer, Lindsey Cole did.”-The Australian
PUNCH AND JUDY – LIVE SHOWS FROM THE FEDORA GROUP AT CLEVEDON BANDSTAND SHOWS AT 12.00 p.m., 1.30 p.m. AND 4.40 p.m.
No trip to the Clevedon seaside is truly complete without the chaotic charm of Punch and Judy, and Clevedon LitFest is bringing this iconic entertainment right to the heart of the action! One of the UK’s best-known Punch professors, Glyn Edwards, will be expertly wielding the slapstick and bringing those familiar characters to life. Glyn Edwards is a highly respected figure in the world of Punch and Judy, often referred to as one of the UK’s best-known Punch professors. He has been involved with the traditional show for over 50 years, both performing and studying it. He’s a founder member of both the Punch and Judy College of Professors and the Punch and Judy Fellowship. It’s a fantastic opportunity to introduce a new generation to this timeless tradition or simply indulge in a bit of nostalgic fun. And the best part? The shows are free!
AS PLEASED AS PUNCH: MAKING MISCHIEF SINCE 1662 11.00 a.m. TO 5.00 p.m. AT THE HAWTHORNS
I should also mention that the Punch and Judy fun doesn’t stop there! On Saturday and Sunday, the Hawthorns are hosting Fedora’s Punch and Judy exhibition. Prepare to be amazed as you delve into the surprisingly rich history of Mr. Punch, the puppet who has been entertaining audiences for over 360 years. This free, all-ages exhibition (with donations to the LitFest gratefully received) promises to be a fascinating exploration of Punch’s journey, from his continental origins to his enduring status as a seaside staple. Another unique treat that shouldn’t be missed!
MOTOWN: THE POETRY OF YOUNG AMERICA ADAM WHITE 1.00 p.m. TO 1.45 pm. AT THE RIFF CORNER
As a devoted Tamla Motown enthusiast, my anticipation for this upcoming event is sky-high! It’s fantastic to see a spotlight shone on the often-underappreciated poetic brilliance that fuelled the “Sound of Young America.” Even the legendary Bob Dylan, a master of lyricism himself, famously hailed Smokey Robinson as “America’s greatest living poet,” a testament to the profound artistry woven into Motown music. Think of the evocative imagery in “Tears of a Clown” or the tender longing in “Ooo Baby Baby” – these are not just catchy phrases, but miniature poems set to music.
Born in Bristol, Adam’s passion for music led him to freelance for various UK music publications before his move to the United States in 1978. There, his career flourished, culminating in his tenure as editor-in-chief at Billboard Magazine. With such a rich history and deep understanding of Motown, Adam White’s presence at both the “Summer of Soul” screening and the Festival event is an unmissable opportunity for any fan of this groundbreaking musical era and the poetic artistry that defined it.
Knowing that Adam White, with his deep-rooted connection to the Motown legacy and co-author of “Motown: The Sound of Young America,” will be leading this exploration adds another layer of anticipation. He’s not just an observer; he’s been immersed in the evolution and impact of this music for decades. His presence at both the “Summer of Soul” screening and this dedicated festival event underscores the enduring cultural significance of this era.
The opportunity to directly engage with Adam White, posing our questions and gaining insights from his vast knowledge, is an invaluable aspect of this event. It’s a chance to move beyond passive listening and become active participants in exploring the artistry that defined a generation. This isn’t just a nostalgic look back; it’s an opportunity to deepen our understanding of the poetic heart that beat within the Motown machine, a heart whose rhythm continues to resonate today.
I’m very interested in buying “Motown: The Sound of Young America,” although Adam isn’t discussing it specifically, I’ve included some reviews in case you’re also interested.
“In terms of visual appeal, ‘The Sound of Young America’ has to be up there among the most beautifully, and copiously, illustrated music books there has ever been.” Goldmine The Music Collectors Magazine
“Formatted like a magazine in the sense that the chapters open with a big headline – “We Don’t Serve Coloured People”, “Meet The Supremes”, “Shanghai Celebration” (really) – and an introductory paragraph to give the essence of each one, this is a feast for the eyes as well as the soul. The images are legion and beautiful.” Record Collector
“Previously unpublished photographs are rendered gloriously on quality paper. Personal stories and anecdotes are delivered in a labor of love through this carefully crafted book. And you are in very capable hands with industry insider Adam White guiding you until the very end.” Manhatton Book review
I hope this blog has given you a flavour of the wonderful and diverse events on offer at Clevedon LitFest 2025. What I particularly love is the range, from film screenings and author talks to poetry performances and music; I honestly think there really is something for everyone. It’s a testament to the festival’s growing reputation that they’ve attracted some really big names, and I’d personally like to extend a huge thank you to the organisers for putting together such an exciting and enriching programme. I’m sure it’s going to be a brilliant four days.