A NEW chapter is opening as preparations are made for celebration of reading and writing.

The 2015 Bridport Open Book, an eclectic mix of readings, film, music and workshops is held from October 13-18.

The week of activities opens on Tuesday, October 13 with the Bridport Story Slam where local writers showcase their prose fiction in front of a live audience and panel of judges. Register to read your work at frances.colville@gmail.com or just come along to listen.

On Wednesday 14 October, 6pm there will be a chance to join a group of local writers, Storytraders, for the launch of their new collection of stories, poems and flash fiction inspired by ‘rope’. A number of writers will be reading their work beginning at 6.15pm and the book will be on sale at the event.

Later in the evening at 8pm there will be a retelling of The Picture of Dorian Gray. Adapted by Wilde’s grandson Merlin Holland and John O’Connor, the play is set in the decadent world of Victorian London. Combining drawing-room comedy and gothic horror, this is a gripping and hugely entertaining theatrical event that showcases Wilde’s remarkable talent.

There will be a workshop on Thursday 15 October, 4-6pm with author and journalist Maria McCarthy. Writing For Publication gives aspiring writers insider tips on how to get journalism, novels or non-fiction books published.

Enjoy an evening of wonderful poetry and prose from this year’s Bridport Prize judges Roger McGough (Poetry), Jane Rogers (Short Story) and Jane Feaver (The Peggy Chapman Andrews Award For a First Novel), Friday 16 October, 7.30pm.

Step back to the sixties on Sunday 18 October and celebrate the 50th anniversary of one of the most exciting years in recent history -1965. There’ll be an open-mic afternoon where musicians can play the year’s biggest hits or something a little more obscure, all are welcome to join us to rewind five decades to a year whose musical influence still resonates today. MC Declan Duffy.

The week will culminate in a screening of Dr Zhivago, the award-winning movie based on Pasternick’s novel. The epic romance tells the story of Russian physician and poet who, although married to another, falls in love with a political activist’s wife and experiences hardship during the First World War and then the October Revolution.

Arts Centre Director Laura Cockett said “We’re looking forward to celebrating reading and writing with a week of entertaining activities for all”.

Tickets are available from bridport-arts.com or from the arts centre’s box office.