The Penny Readings 2009

The sixth annual Penny Readings, hosted by The Reader Organisation will take place at 7pm on Sunday 6th December in the Small Concert Room in Liverpool’s magnificent St. George’s Hall.

“A wonderful start to Christmas – like mulled wine for the soul”
This year, the Penny Readings will feature readings by Liverpool’s award-winning author and screenwriter Frank Cottrell Boyce.

In Dickens’ time public readings were the equivalent of a big music gig today – think Beyoncé at the Echo Arena – Dickens was a hot ticket! For the past six years, the Penny Readings has continued the tradition that Charles Dickens began in the 1840s, when he would travel around Liverpool reading to thousands of ordinary people and charging just one penny.

Previous years have included readings from actor and director Janet Suzman, actor Annabelle Dowler and poet Janet Joseph. The 2009 line-up is still under wraps (announcements coming soon), but it can be guaranteed that the fantastic live-readings will be combined with the usual exciting array of music and dance. All this and a good measure of festive cheer, still available at the rock-bottom price of one penny!

Tickets will be available for collection from 10am on Monday 16th November from both Liverpool Central Library (William Brown Street, Liverpool, L3 8EW, 2nd floor Helpdesk - 0151 232 5829 - ask for Mike Taylor or Janet Graham) and Birkenhead Central Library (Borough Rd, Birkenhead, CH41 2XB, Music Counter - 0151 652 6106 - ask for Susan Boote). But don’t forget to pay your penny on the night!

The ever-popular readings have repeatedly sold out well-short of demand in previous years, so those wishing to attend are advised to get their tickets early to avoid disappointment.

In addition, twenty tickets will be released on eBay on Friday 27th November, for those really keen to come and willing to bid away!