Brazilian literary festival opens
With help from a “Harry Potter” connection, the Brazilian colonial town of Parati is playing host this weekend to authors, poets and musicians from both sides of the Atlantic.
British author Julian Barnes and Brazilian singer Chico Buarque are among those taking part in the inaugural gathering.
One of the main organizers is London publisher Liz Calder, a founder of the “Harry Potter” publishing house Bloomsbury, who has had a home in the historic town south of Rio de Janeiro for more than 20 years. She says its charm and atmosphere make it an ideal place for writers and their readers to meet.
Brazil’s dreadlocked culture minister, singer Gilberto Gil, opened the first Parati International Literary Festival on Thursday night to a background of samba drums and then played his own set.
“Culture has as basic an importance as rice and beans. Culture is as essential as a toilet in a house,” Gil said.
From Reuters
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