On Tuesday 13th October, Russel T Davies, most recognised for his television writing, attended a book event to promote his new memoir, The Queerest of Folk. It was part of a UK-wide book tour, with Edinburgh’s stop being organised by indie bookstore Lighthouse – Edinburgh’s Radical Bookshop.
The event was held in the Assembly Roxy, one of Edinburgh’s many grandiose churches that now show reverence to events like Davies and the communion wine is replaced with a fully stocked bar. Churches are a popular destination choice for book events in Edinburgh, most likely because they are often large spaces, allowing for a larger audience and more ticket sales. Also, they offer a unique atmosphere with their often-Gothic architecture, and as someone who attends many fantasy and horror book events in places like the Roxy, it sets the tone for the evening. So while tonally the Roxy didn’t match this genre premise, I have to say it still worked, with Davies able to stand at a podium to read sections of his book to his audience. The giddy excitement of the audience before the event led to a rapture as Davies spoke that mirrored other styles of worship that had happened in the building.
It was a good choice by Lighthouse, who also did a great job in hosting the event. It is not surprising, as I have come to expect this; they are always considerate of their attendees and authors. The event was masked, which was pre-requested via email, but they also had boxes of spares to distribute to those who needed one. They explained before the event started that they didn’t wish to pressure anyone to wear one but were grateful to those who would, as some in the audience were undergoing chemotherapy/ had weakened immune systems. As a recently diagnosed asthma sufferer, I deeply appreciated this gesture, as I did struggle at points to keep my mask on.
Everything was relaxed and exactly what I would expect from an event arranged by Lighthouse. I have attended several book events they have organised and love that strive to do something different with each. For example, when attending a fiction event last year, it was held in a garden where afternoon tea was served while the author discussed her queer sequel to Pride and Prejudice. The idea matched the sensibility of the period piece novel, showing they had put thought and care into arranging the event. It was similar, with Davies being given the podium and allowing him a sense of command over the room, which he clearly enjoyed.
Another element was that the event was recorded. This allowed people who could not attend physically to watch online before the videos are uploaded to Lighthouse’s website the next day. This aligns with their policy to be as inclusive as possible and their desire to make Lighthouse a true community space at both their shop and events. Finally, they offered a Pay It Forward scheme for anyone wishing to buy a copy of Davies’ book who was unable to on the night. It shows their fairness and passion for sharing books with everyone.
Overall, the event was well organised, with Lighthouse creating a safe and friendly space for everyone in their audience both physically and online.
