Royal Literary Fund Reading Round
Golden Thread Gallery

Workshops will begin third week of September

What is The Royal Literary Fund ‘Reading Round’ and why is it different from other Reading Groups?

The Royal Literary Fund ‘Reading Round’ is a network of reading groups across the UK. Each group is run by former Fellows, all published authors of literary merit. The group leaders (the RLF calls them Lectors) may be playwrights, poets, or writers of fiction or non-fiction, and all are able to offer a unique, writerly perspective on the texts under discussion.

There is no preparatory reading or homework. Instead, each week you will listen to at least two different pieces of writing (such as short stories, poems, short plays or non-fiction such as art or theatre reviews and articles). Photocopies of these texts will be given to you for free. The text is then discussed at length and in depth:

– What effects does it have on us as we read?
– How does it achieve those effects?

Guided by the ‘Lector’ you consider the texts in detail, looking at tone, choice of words, viewpoint, the effect of a certain image or turn of phrase, and so on.
Although anyone can come to the group, as the Lector is both a playwright and an art critic/historian/curator, there will be an emphasis on theatrical texts and texts on the visual arts so this Belfast group will be of particular interest to those of you who are working in, or stimulated by, both the visual arts and the theatre. Brian McAvera will be running the sessions as Lector and is a playwright, director, art critic, curator and art historian.

Reading Round sessions are free and will comprise of thirty 90 minute sessions which will run throughout term time during the year. There are 15 spaces available which will be allocated on a first come first serve basis. There will then be a reserve waiting list which interested parties will be added to. Reading Round session’s will be on Friday and Saturday mornings from 11.00-12.30 depending on the availability of the group.

Applicants will be sent further information once they confirm their interest in the scheme.

How do I sign up?
– Email [email protected] marking it ‘Reading Round for the attention of Catherine.’
– Confirm that you are happy to sign up for thirty 90 minute sessions.
-Specify the time and day which suits you best as outlined above.
– Give us a contact address, phone number and email.