Nobel Laureate Sir VS Naipaul will no longer be joining the literary lineup for this year’s Festival. As a not-for-profit Festival, the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival (UWRF) relies on the goodwill and generosity of sponsors, partners and the authors and artists who so graciously donate their times and resources. The revenue raised through Festival ticket sales enables it to look forward to the following year’s events, ensuring that the UWRF can continue to bring the world’s leading authors, artists, thinkers and performers together on a global stage.
“The integrity of the Festival has always been our greatest priority”, said Festival Director Janet DeNeefe of the news. “Unfortunately, there are some hard choices to be made along the road and ultimately, we must consider the longevity of the UWRF and all of those involved”.
Stepping up to replace Sir VS Naipaul will be British novelist of Bangladeshi origin Zia Haider Rahman, who has been described as heir to the greats including the Nobel Laureate himself and George Orwell. For those who have purchased tickets to Sir VS Naipaul’s Special Event on October 3, An Evening with Sir VS Naipaul, Festival staff have already been in touch to offer a full refund for the session.
UWRF continues to kick on in preparations for another stellar year, now just three short weeks away. Despite the setback, the lineup promises to glow with some of the world’s best literary talent. “It’s not just about the big names though,” reflects Janet. “One of the biggest compliments we’ve always received is how the UWRF offers the chance for our audiences to meet with the world’s up and coming talent too, the future literary greats of tomorrow.” http://www.ubudwritersfestival.com/
