He didn’t get where he is today without knowing a thing or two about literature!
The creator of one of the country’s finest ever sitcoms is coming to Wigan as part of the Words ‘09 Literature Festival.
David Nobbs, whose comic creation Reginald Perrin was brought so vividly to life by Leonard Rossiter in the 70s hit “The Fall And Rise or Reginald Perrin” will take part in a question and answer session as part of next April’s three week programme of events.
And the timing couldn’t be better.
Men Behaving Badly star Martin Clunes is currently filming in a remake of the classic sitcom which sees a deskbound sales executive faking his own death to escape the monotony of his life.
But while some quarters question whether Clunes can step into Rossiter’s shoes David has no doubts.
David said:
“They are equally brilliant. Martin is a little gentler than Leonard but in quieter bits that’s very very effective. They both have very different strengths and it’s been absolutely fascinating seeing them both playing the role.
“Of course there is debate and people are either saying ‘thank goodness we’re getting it again’ or ‘what a pity they didn’t leave it alone’.
“But this is very much modernized, it’s very different and it’s about the pressures of life in 2009.
“It’s been 30 years and the world has changed.”
The BBC has commissioned six episodes which may well be broadcast in the Spring.
David added:
“I’m looking forward to visiting Wigan again. I was there years ago with Victoria Wood talking at a ladies luncheon.
“I found the people respectful and warm hearted.”
Words ‘09 will be the sixth Leigh and Wigan Literary Festival to be held in the borough.
Full details for the three week festival starting April 13 have yet to be finalized but organisers have confirmed that distinguished poet Wendy Cope has agreed to attend the event.
Also confirmed for the festival is world-renowned psychologist and writer Dr Dorothy Rowe who has won critical acclaim for the way she discusses depression and happiness.
In 2004 she was voted one of the six wisest people in the UK by Saga Magazine.
Words ’09 is organised by Leigh and Wigan Words Together Management Committee, a dedicated volunteer group which work in partnership with Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust to ensure its success.
For full details check out Wigan and Leisure Culture Trust’s website – closer to the time.
