Funding problems threaten Pärnu literature festival after sixth edition

Funding difficulties could make this year’s Pärnu literature festival the last, ERR reported. The sixth edition opened with a wreath-laying ceremony at the Lydia Koidula sculpture.

The programme runs from noon until midnight and includes discussion forums, meetings with writers, a book fair and concerts.

Festival organiser Merle Jantson said the event aims to promote and introduce the Estonian language, Estonian literature and Estonian writers. The programme is divided into areas for children, young people, Pärnu, theatre, good Estonian language, discussion forums and book presentations, as well as a main stage.

The youth programme has been assembled by Sütevaka Humanitarian Gymnasium. Performers include Riste Sofie Käär, Elo Viiding and writers who graduated from the school, including Indrek Koff, Kaupo Meiel and Ivo Volt.

Discussion forums will focus on Pärnu becoming a cultural capital and on women’s literature. Musicians and actors from the summer production Raimond Valgre will perform on the main stage, followed by Dagö and Saatpalu in the evening.

Jantson said organising the festival has become financially more difficult each year, meaning the current edition may be the final one.