On events, with Chris Gordon
As with any excellent dinner party, we are covering all bases for our final month of programming this year. We are rejoicing in music, food, laughter, politics (because what is a dinner party without heated discussion) and a touch of whimsy. I am hoping each event you attend lightens your soul and makes you realise how glorious our fine city is, filled as it is with creative geniuses.
A soundtrack is always one of the most crucial elements of a party, especially if it’s a celebration of the one and only David Bowie (17 November). Performing on the night will be Melbourne favourites The Thin White Ukes, who are going all-out. The event also features acclaimed academics Ian Dixon and Brendan Black who will discuss their book, I’m Not a Film Star: David Bowie as Actor.
The new book Regurgitator’s Unit outlines the cultural impact of Regurgitator’s music. Join us (1 December) for a rollicking night of reminiscing and insight with authors Lachlan Goold, Lauren Istvandity, band manager Paul Curtis, and band members Quan Yeomans and Ben Ely! We are also delighted to have Paulie Stewart join our program (17 November). Rock legend Paulie is also a passionate advocate for the freedom of East Timor and West Papua. In his entertaining tell-all memoir, Paulie Stewart: All the Rage, we learn how he channelled his anger over the murder of his brother, one of the Balibo Five, into music.
Speaking of activism and music, a wonderful array of authors will join us to celebrate the music of Paul Kelly (18 November). In Minds Went Walking, a group of Australia’s finest storytellers were invited to let their minds go walking through the Paul Kelly songbook. Join Jock Serong, Mark Smith, Neil A. White, Lorin Clarke, Matt Neal, Michelle Wright, Angela Savage, Alice Bishop, Bram Presser, Mirandi Riwoe and Zoe Bradley who all met this challenge.
As our Readings 2022 dinner party continues, we are delighted to find Wil Anderson and Tom Ballard seated at our table. I promise, both these dinner guests will make you cackle out loud at their respective events (For Anderson, 17 November. For Ballard, 30 November). Also joining us at the table is Gomeroi/Gamilaroi/ Kamilaroi author Amy Thunig, who will share with moderator Clementine Ford their memories of growing up on unceded lands (25 November). This is an excellent opportunity to just listen (and to learn).
When after-dinner drinks roll around, the conversation inevitably turns to the year we just had. I am thrilled to have Niki Savva in conversation with Laura Tingle to discuss Savva’s new book and the crucial concept of leadership (11 December).
Finally, I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has attended a Readings event in 2022, whether it be as an audience member, a staff member or as a guest of the program. I am humbled by each of you. You are all my favourite dinner guests.
