Spokesperson: Theunis Duvenhage, Standard Bank Western Cape Provincial Head: Personal Banking
As the local literary world eagerly anticipates the upcoming Books on the Bay festival, sponsored by Standard Bank, excitement is building among book lovers, authors, and enthusiasts alike. Set against the backdrop of picturesque Simon’s Town, one of the country’s oldest and most beautiful towns, this literary festival promises to celebrate the creativity of books, as well as the writers and publishers who produce them.
Scheduled to span over three days, the festival will feature a diverse lineup of renowned local authors, poets, and speakers. Attendees can look forward to captivating readings, panel discussions, music and poetry across seven venues situated throughout the town. The festival runs from 22-24 March 2024.
One of the highlights of the festival is the line-up of esteemed authors who will be gracing the event. From best-selling novelists to emerging literary voices, the festival aims to showcase a rich tapestry of storytelling that reflects the diversity of perspectives and narratives in South Africa’s literary landscape.
Confirmed writers include Ivan Vladislavic, Darrel Bristow-Bovey, Mphuthumi Ntabeni, Margie Orford, Craig Higginson, Justin Fox, Finuala Dowling, Ashwin Desai, C.A. Davids, Antony Osler, Annemarié van Niekerk, Imraan Coovadia, and many more.
We are thrilled to be sponsoring Books on the Bay this year.
“We are thrilled to be sponsoring Books on the Bay this year,” says Theunis Duvenhage, Standard Bank Western Cape Provincial Head: Personal Banking. “In addition to engaging with authors of bestsellers during interactive sessions and finding a sense of community among fellow literary enthusiasts, visitors get to explore and experience everything Simon’s Town has to offer. As such, the festival is expected to provide a welcome boost to the town’s visitors’ numbers and economy.“
Duvenhage adds that Standard Bank remains committed to promoting and encouraging literacy excellence in the country due to its potential to transform and grow the African economy, which strongly aligns with the bank’s purpose: “Africa is our home, we drive her growth“.
Through Books on the Bay, we are celebrating the transformative power of literature and the courageous and authentic storytellers of today.
“Through Books on the Bay, we are celebrating the transformative power of literature and the courageous and authentic storytellers of today. We are also providing a platform for the development of the next generation of writers who will tell stories that elevate the continent on the world stage.“
In addition to sponsoring the festival, Standard Bank is supporting young artists of tomorrow through the Standard Bank that enables and develops young, aspiring writers with the aim of elevating their careers within the sphere of the arts.
Those interested in attending Books and the Bay and what promises to be a feast for the mind and soul should mark their calendars, book tickets, and get ready to embark on a literary journey like no other in one of the most beautiful locations in the country.
Don’t miss out. Space is limited.
Book your tickets (from as little as R80 per session) via Webtickets here: https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/EventCategory.aspx?itemid=1542608200#tickets
