08/16/2026
Word Vancouver opens its festival with a vibrant evening hosted by our Guest Indigenous Curator, Frances Koncan, Space Girl: A Cosmic Comedy (Talonbooks), ·and our Guest 2SLGBTQIA+ Curator, Nicola Harwood, Flight Instructions for the Commitment Impaired (Caitlin Press).
Bringing together literary and performance voices from across disciplines, Opening Night celebrates the power of stories, creativity, and community. This lively and welcoming event offers an inspiring introduction to the festival and the conversations, readings, and ideas that will unfold throughout the week.
This year’s theme, Finding Joy in Dark Times, is beautifully reflected in a dynamic and engaging program that promises to spark connection, reflection, and delight as we launch the festival together.
Traditional Welcome: Ḵung Jaadee (Roberta Kennedy), I am Connected (Medicine Wheel Publishing)
Guests:
📚🎤Nyla Bedard, Reading/Stand-up Comedy Set
📚Alex Leslie, Vancouver for Beginners (Book*hug Press)
📚Dave Deveau, Cissy: Three Gender Plays: Nelly Boy, My Funny Valentine, and Ladies and Gentlemen, Boys and Girls (Talonbooks)
Date: Thursday, September 10, 2026
Time: 6:30pm-8:00pm
Location: VPL Main Branch, Alice MacKay Room
Sponsored by: Word Vancouver · Vancouver Public Library
