New story collection to be launched at Dark Songs in Portsmouth

DarkFest has got off to a brilliant start with the highlight so far being Day of the Dead, a night of song, poetry and action at the Square Tower, Old Portsmouth.

A first in a new series of spine-tingling stories by Portsmouth Writers Hub authors was launched on the night.

The book features tales from the likes of Will Sutton and Diane Bretherick, ranging from the humorous to the macabre to the poignant.

Events coming up over the next two weeks include Murderville Music, tonight, at Aurora coffee shop, Albert Road, Southsea. There will be gipsy music, jazz and film noir projections.

And Stella Compton’s play Genghis, The Truth is tomorrow night at the New Theatre Royal.

On Sunday Dark Songs takes place at the Square Tower.

Will Sutton said: ‘Day of the Dead was a huge success, the best yet. On Sunday night I will be hosting Dark Songs.

‘We have four brilliant songwriters – Jamie West, Ellis Phillips, Radio KWG and Philip Jeays. It should be a great gig.’

Also on Sunday burlesque artist Joe Black will be hosting a night of twisted cabaret at the Wedgewood Rooms.

And, on November 30, another collection of chilling tales from Portsmouth writers, Dark City, will be launched.

The collection includes stories about paranormal activities and strange goings-on in and around Portsmouth.

It features a tale about a man who believes he is turning into the Tricorn Centre. And a Black Mirror-style story which spells out the dangers of modern technology.

It’s taking place at the Hunter Gatherer cafe in Albert Road.

Publisher and author Matt Wingett said: ‘These books show the extraordinary writing talents of people connected to Portsmouth and the surrounding area.

‘With the dark winter months upon us these stories will give you extra chills.’

Go to lifeisamazing.co.uk/darkfest.