September 6, 2006

NEWS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE USE

GALA, KANSAS AUTHORS, MUSICIANS, AND CAPOTE FILM SCREENING HIGHLIGHT KANSAS BOOK FESTIVAL
September 29-30, Lawrence-Dumont Stadium

The first ever Kansas Book Festival, a signature event in the Countdown to Statehood, features two days of continuous performances, readings, and workshops.  The free Festival, celebrating books, art and Kansas heritage, runs 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., Friday, September 29, and 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Saturday, September 30, 2006 at the Lawrence-Dumont Stadium in Wichita.

Governor Kathleen Sebelius and Kansas Poet Laureate Jonathan Holden are among the many authors, performers, and presenters featured at the Festival.

“The Kansas Book Festival will enhance cultural appreciation and awareness within our state," said Governor Kathleen Sebelius.  "I encourage Kansans to mark their calendars and join us for this unique event.”

Featured Kansas authors include Don Coldsmith, Robert Day, Michael J. Everhart, Jim Hoy, Craig Miner, and William M. Tsutsui.  Performers and presentations include the Friends University Soulstice, Native American Exhibition Dancers, Lemuel Sheppard, Tropical Shores Steel Drum Band, and Wichita Children’s Theatre. The Tribute to Gordon Parks on Saturday afternoon, features jazz artist Queen Bey and filmmaker Kevin Wilmott.   The Festival culminates with a film screening of the new motion picture on Truman Capote, Infamous.  Director Douglas McGrath will be in attendance at this special showing at the Warren Theaters.  For more information visit www.kansasbookfestival.ks.gov.   

As part of the Festival, the Black, White and READ All Over Ball will be 8 - 11 p.m. Friday, September 29, at Exploration Place in Wichita. Jazz vocalist Donna Tucker will provide the entertainment for the evening along with a five-piece jazz instrumental group. The Ball will honor fifteen authors with 2006 Kansas Notable Books medals. Tickets are $50 per person. For more information contact Vikki Jo Stewart, Kansas State Library, 620-331-8218, vikkijo@kslib.info.

The 2006 Kansas Book Festival is produced by the Governor’s Cultural Affairs Council and the Kansas Center for the Book in cooperation with state and local organizations.  For more information about the 2006 Kansas Book Festival, visit www.kansasbookfestival.ks.gov.

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