When you ask folk about poetry and what it means to them, most will shrug their shoulders or their eyes will glaze over in bewilderment. This is because there is a general feeling that poetry is exclusive and ‘Not for the likes of us.’ Well, that’s not so necessarily true this days. Over the last few years or so, poetry, and especially the performance of poetry has undergone a massive revolution. Everybody is doing it! How this has happened is up for debate, but its probably a lot to do with the times that we are living in, the overpowering use of social media it's overriding demand for us to communicate. Some of the new poets have gone on to become superstars, such artists as Kate Tempest, John Cooper Clarke, Hollie McNish and Luke Wright are all over our TV boxes. These poets are not difficult to read or listen to, they tap into all of our experiences and what they say becomes universal.
After the success of the Wakefield Lit Fest right here at the Cluntergate, we have decided to get folk writing and performing poetry with a new monthly event called ‘Poems From The Book Depository’. It all begins on Sunday the 19th November from 7pm in our coffee bar. If you wish to come and read a poem that you have written (or even someone else’s) you are most welcome. We have space for up to ten readers (or performers). Each month we will feature a special guest slot and for the first event we are delighted to welcome the excellent Horbury Poets, Valerie and William Gaskill, they were real stars of the Wakefield Lit Fest.
You can bring your own beer or wine too. We’ll provide tea, coffee and cake. Entry is just £3. If you wish to read or perform at the night, please get in touch with me at rdartford@cluntergate.org.uk
Here is a clip of the aforementioned, Hollie Mcnish being absolutely wonderful.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6BhS6uuogkI
It will be another great event, right here in the heart of Horbury. Come and join the fun!
Best,
Ralph
Centre Manager