Join us for an intimate conversation with Julie Pellissier-Lush, PEI’s first Indigenous Poet Laureate, and Amanda Peters, acclaimed Mi’kmaq author of the highly anticipated new book, Waiting for the Long Night Moon: Stories. Set to release in August, this collection melds traditional storytelling with beautiful, spare prose, offering profound insights into the dignity of traditional life, the harsh realities of systemic racism, and the resilient power to endure. Amanda will explore the inspirations and themes behind her stories, while Julie Pellissier-Lush, a celebrated actress and bestselling author of My Mi’kmaq Mother, will provide her perspective as a former Poet Laureate known for her contributions to preserving Mi’kmaq culture. Presented in partnership with Bookmark, this unique event offers a chance to engage with the authors, delve into their literary journeys, and discuss the cultural influences shaping their work. Attendees will also have the opportunity to participate in a Q&A session and book signing. This event is an essential part of our commitment to highlighting Indigenous voices and stories at the Wild Threads Literary Festival.

Join us for a memorable evening at the Wild Threads Literary Festival’s inaugural bilingual event, “Harmonies and Histories,” celebrating PEI’s vibrant Francophone culture. Set against the charming backdrop of North Rustico’s Watermark Theatre and hosted by beloved PEI singer-songwriter Michael Pendergast, you’ll enjoy captivating storytelling, poetry, and music by talented local and regional Francophone artists. This event also features local singer-songwriters Barb and Olivia Blacquiere sharing their Acadian and Island culture through song, storytelling, and perhaps a step-dance or two. Savor a traditional Acadian culinary experience curated by heritage chef Robert Pendergast! This family-friendly event offers a unique platform to showcase the richness of PEI’s Acadian culture and marks a significant milestone for the Wild Threads Literary Festival in embracing our island’s linguistic diversity.

Join award-winning comedy writer Heidi Brander (originally from PEI!) for an insightful workshop that dives into developing your comedy writing for television or film. Open to writers of all ages, experience, and genres, this workshop may explore anything from crafting a writing package, developing a television pilot, how to work effectively in a writers’ room, or adapting your voice to different comedy formats. This interactive workshop will include dedicated writing time and a Q&A session, where Heidi will dive into her vast experience. Known for her work on CBC’s Son of a Critch, Baroness Von Sketch Show, Still Standing, and This Hour Has 22 Minutes, Heidi brings a wealth of knowledge and humor. She has also written for MTV Live, Spun Out, and Just Passing Through, and performed stand-up across Canada and the U.S. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable skills from a leading voice in TV comedy!

Wild Threads presents: Comedy Unravelled

Saturday, September 21st, 8:00 – 9:30pm, | The Guild, 111 Queen St, Charlottetown, PE

Join us for an unforgettable evening at a Wild Threads Literary Festival signature event, “Wild Threads: Comedy Unravelled” on Saturday, September 21st at The Guild in Charlottetown. Hosted annually by PEI’s own Shawn Hogan, this event features world-class talent visiting and returning to the island, including Heidi Brander, Tanya Davis, and headliner Allyson June Smith.

Heidi Brander, renowned for her work on CBC’s This Hour Has 22 Minutes, has written for acclaimed TV series such as Baroness Von Sketch Show and Still Standing. Currently residing in Los Angeles, California, Heidi tours North America with her sharp, witty standup.

Tanya Davis, an award-winning poet and performer, is celebrated for her viral video poem “How to Be Alone,” which has amassed over three million views on YouTube and was featured at prestigious film festivals worldwide. She is currently PEI’s Poet Laureate and is one of PEI’s all-time great performers in numerous genres.

Allyson June Smith, a standout performer at Montreal’s Just For Laughs festival and a nominee for Best Female Stand-up at the Canadian Comedy Awards, has entertained audiences through her multiple appearances on MuchMusic’s Video on Trial and CBC’s The Debaters. Now based in Manchester, UK, she continues to tour globally.