Aye Write saved from axe after unexpected donation
A GLASGOW festival which was shelved after nearly 20 years has been saved by an “unexpected donation”.
Glasgow Life has confirmed a series of Aye Write pop- up events and a programme of Wee Write events will go ahead this year after an “unexpected” but “welcome” donation.
The organisation said standalone events will be held for the main festival and a smaller- scale version of Wee Write will take place.
The donation from the Colin Weir Charitable Foundation is for £ 65,000.
It comes after we reported in March the plug had been pulled on the event - which is one of Scotland’s biggest book festivals.
The organisers cancelled it after it was turned down for financial support by the Scottish Government’s arts agency Creative Scotland.
While the festival is produced by Glasgow Life, it is understood it was reliant on Creative Scotland’s continued support through its open fund.
Launched in 2005, Aye Write featured around 175 authors appearing in more than 12 events across 10 days last year.
The pop- up events will take place throughout the year and in the new year.
Some of the shows which have been confirmed are:
- James O’Brien in conversation with editor of The Herald Catherine Salmond on Friday, May 17 at Glasgow Royal Concert Hall.
- Val McDermid in conversation with Nicola Sturgeon MSP on Tuesday, May 21 at The Old Fruitmarket.
- Doon Mackichan in conversation with Kieran Hodgson on Wednesday, May 22 at Waterstones, Sauchiehall Street.
- Chris Brookmyre on Wednesday, July 17 at Drygate.
- Alan Cumming and Forbes Masson on Thursday, August 8 at Glasgow Royal Concert Hall.
Meanwhile, the organisation has confirmed Wee Write will go ahead in autumn this year on a smaller scale.
As part of it, there will be a range of activities for children and young people as it celebrates its 10th anniversary.
Glasgow Life has said it is continuing to develop a multi- year funding application to Creative Scotland for future editions of the event.
If successful, Aye Write will return in full in 2025, 2026 and 2027.
Bailie Annette Christie, chair of Glasgow Life, said: “Aye Write is a much- loved festival, which is apparent from the outpouring of support over the past few weeks.
“The generous donation from the Colin Weir Charitable Foundation means it can continue to have a positive impact on Glaswegians and people throughout Scotland.”
A spokesperson for the foundation said: “We are pleased to be able to support Aye Write to put on a programme of great events in 2024.
“It was unthinkable that Aye Write should be silenced until next year. Happily, the donation means that won’t be the case.”
Glasgow Life has also thanked the foundation, authors, publishers and members of the public who have helped or offered support to the festival.
Tickets for the events are now on sale.