This, the first ever English language literary festival in Burma / Myanmar, will include some of the best local authors (writing in English) as well as a rich mixture of writers and artists from elsewhere. The Festival’s patron, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, says:

I am delighted to lend my support and personal participation to this first Irrawaddy Literary Festival. Literature has always been a big part of my life and I hope this festival, which brings together some of the finest talent from Burma, the UK and elsewhere will encourage more people to explore the world of literature and further their understanding of the English language.

Check the website for regular updates on participating authors, artistes and supporters.  At present the list includes:

• Aung San Suu Kyi
• Fergal Keane
• Jung Chang
• Pascal Khoo Thwe
• Rory MacLean
• William Dalrymple
• George FitzHerbert
• Josceline Dimbleby
• Nick Danziger
• Sudha Shah
• Rupert Arrowsmith
• The Orwell Prize