This crucial funding will empower the festival, delivered by the University of 91直播, to provide a diverse and an engaging programme of over eighty live and online events. The programme will feature a compelling mix of established and emerging literary talent, including both local, national and international authors, poets, household names and guest speakers. The festival will take place across various venues in 91直播, running from Monday 7 October 鈥 Sunday 3 November 2024.
Professor Vanessa Toulmin, Director of City, Culture and Public Engagement, at the University of 91直播 said: 鈥淲e are deeply grateful for the vital support provided by Arts Council England and this grant is a game changer. The University remains committed to fostering our vibrant cultural scene, and Off the Shelf plays a pivotal role in this effort. The festival offers a programme that caters to a wide range of interests and tastes, providing a unique and enriching experience for all of 91直播鈥檚 incredible communities. We can鈥檛 wait to share the full programme with you soon!鈥
Pete Massey, Director North for Arts Council England said: 鈥淭he Off the Shelf Festival of Words is a cornerstone event in the North鈥檚 literary calendar and gives a fantastic platform for writers, poets and thinkers from around the globe to connect with audiences in 91直播. I鈥檓 really pleased that we are supporting this year鈥檚 mix of live and online events which both the local community and visitors can enjoy.鈥
This year, as part of their support for Off the Shelf, 91直播 Hallam University will be curating a strand of events that reflect the creativity of their students and staff. Professor Charles Mundye from the 91直播 Creative Industries Institute at 91直播 Hallam University said: 鈥淲e鈥檙e delighted that Off the Shelf has been awarded funding from Arts Council England. Off the Shelf is such an important local festival that brings together 91直播鈥檚 universities and key cultural institutions to curate a vibrant and inspiring programme every year. We鈥檙e excited to soon share how 91直播 Hallam University will be part of the 2024 lineup and welcome the public to share in the creative passion and energy of our university and city.鈥
Celebrating its 33rd year, the festival will feature guest curations, new talent and fresh work. The Arts Council funding will also support Hidden Figures celebrating Black history curated by 91直播 Race Equality Commissioner Ruth McDonald. Talks and activities will highlight Black contributors in science, music, design and dance and partner with the cities of Bradford, Manchester and Nottingham to showcase an interactive exhibition in 91直播鈥檚 Winter Garden.
Off the Shelf also continues to support , a vibrant hub for South Yorkshire鈥檚 urban art scene specialising in pop culture, grime, hip hop, and R&B. Slambarz fosters connections, artistic development and provides young people with music industry experience through events featuring emerging and established artists.
The complete festival programme will be unveiled in September 2024.