The Festival Gala once again showcases the story-telling chops of eight writers who deliver a seven-minute true story, propless and scriptless, inspired by the theme “The Heart of the Matter”. Flexing their muscles are: Gina Cole (NZ); Glenn Colquhoun (NZ); Ivan Coyote (Canada), Anne Enright (Ireland); Lloyd Geering (NZ); James Shapiro (USA); Ian Rankin (Scotland); and Mpho Tutu van Furth (South Africa).

Opening Address delivered by Festival Director Anne O'Brien with Gala Line Up introduced by Chair Pip Muir.

2017 Festival Gala Night was supported by New Zealand Listener