We’re thrilled to be returning to Chelsea Arts Festival for an evening exploring the richness of women’s writing, curated and hosted by one of the UK’s most celebrated writers and literary figures, Bernardine Evaristo – recipient of the Women’s Prize Outstanding Contribution Award.

Bringing together exceptional writers, both established and exciting new voices, to discuss their work – the evening will feature readings performed by acclaimed actors, bringing these words to life on stage.

Audiences will encounter new writing, hear powerful stories, and discover the breadth of voices shaping contemporary literature. Moments of humour, reflection, insight and surprise will weave through the evening, creating a truly special, one-off experience. Join us to kick off proceedings for Chelsea Arts Festival 2026.

Bernardine Evaristo is the the award-winning author of eight books and numerous other published and produced works that span the genres of novels, poetry, verse fiction, short fiction, essays, literary criticism, and radio and theatre drama. Her book Blonde Roots was longlisted for the Women’s Prize for Fiction in 2009 and Girl, Woman, Other was shortlisted in 2019. In 2022 she became President of the Royal Society of Literature – the first writer of colour and second woman to hold the role – and she is Professor of Creative Writing at Brunel University London. A longstanding advocate for inclusion, she has championed Black British writing throughout her career.

The Women’s Prize Outstanding Contribution Award was a one-off literary honour marking the 30th anniversary year of the Women’s Prize for Fiction in 2025. This prestigious accolade, funded by Bukhman Philanthropies, celebrates Bernardine’s body of work, her transformative impact on literature and her unwavering dedication to uplifting under-represented voices across the cultural landscape.