‘Truth or Dare’ Central Library Takeover

Can’t Stop Won’t Stop, FUEL and Small Green Shoots bring you ‘Truth or Dare’; a Nottingham Central Library Takeover by and for young people to celebrate National Poetry Day. Come along to the Ground Floor between 6pm and 8pm and enjoy live spoken word, music, poetry slams, artwork and an interactive poetry workshop. Energy, lyricism and truth guaranteed!

Performance, Free, Library, Open mic

Poetry in the Park

Set in the beautiful and inspirational surroundings of Greenhead Park, Huddersfield, we have workshops, open mic and poetry performances from professional and amateur poets, promoting poetry as a wellbeing tool.

Performance, Free, Open mic

For the Love of Poetry

Reading of loved poems and discussing our favourites. The event will be held in King's Lynn Library, London Road, King's Lynn PE30 5EZ

12 - 1 pm
Refreshments available

Free, Library

Truth Poetry competion, and Open Mic at the Library

Free poetry competition.
Poets are invited to interpret ‘Truth’ in whatever way you wish:
Poems will be judged by John Hegley, Saradha Soobrayen and
Paul Lyalls.

Open Mic Open to all over-18s, to read a piece of poetry or two. MC'd by Sandra Agard.

Performance, Free, Library, Prize, Open mic

The Word

Dub, slam and sacred - poetry in all its forms will ring out from Lichfield Cathedral as it hosts its first poetry festival with Benjamin Zephaniah, Michael Symmons Roberts, Revd Rachel Mann, Malcolm Guite and Staffordshire poet laureate Emily Rose Galvin and performance poet, Emma Purshouse. Poems by candlelight; pizza and slam, and creative writing workshops....amongst the events

Nov 24 - 28th.

Performance, Prize

Workplace Wellbeing: Celebrating National Poetry Day

Reading, Exhibition

Truth competition and Pop-Up Poetry Open Mic

In celebration of National Poetry Day you are invited to enter Islington Libraries poetry competition. Poets are invited to interpret truth in whatever way you wish. Poems will be judged by John Hegley, Saradha Soobrayen and Paul Lyalls. Closing date Monday 23rd September.

Winners will be announced at the Pop-Up Poetry Open Mic competition at North Library, 6. - 9.30pm on Thursday 3rd October.

Library, Prize, Open mic

Kathleen Swann – Ripples Beyond the Pool

Join poet Kathleen Swann on National Poetry Day for a poetry workshop including reading, writing and discussion. For more information or to book ring (01642)723268.

Library

The City Chapter Poetry Reading

To celebrate National Poetry Day Armagh City Chapter, in association with The John Hewitt Society and the Arts Council of Northern Ireland presents a Poetry Reading with

GAIL McCONNELL & NOEL MONAHAN

at Armagh City Library, 2 Market Street. at 7.3opm.

Admission Free, Donations to City Chapter welcome.

Performance, Free, Library

Pop-up Poetry with Anthony Costello, Mary Ann Dearlove and Hannah Stone

Join us for some poetry performances and be inspired to write your own poems with the prompts provided!

Performance, Free, Library

Sad Poets’ Doorstep Club

We are hosting a special poetry circle focussing on mental health. You are welcome to share your own poetry or short story in a supportive environment or just come and listen

Free, Library, Open mic

Henry Raby and the 9-Bit Orchestra

Challenge your imagination and join performance poet Henry Raby who’ll be setting up residency at the Centre@Burnholme collecting words and rhymes for National Poetry Day.

Come along have a chat, request a poem or create a poem all leading to an informal performance later in the day to recorded sounds by the 9-Bit Orchestra youth project. Henry’s work has been described as playful, highly-charged passionate and anarchic!

Performance, Free, Library

National Poetry Day Morning Reading

If you pop into The Marriott Room at York Explore on National Poetry Day who will you find there? You may be in for a big surprise as we have invited some marvellous poets to pop- up and read their work.

*STOP PRESS*

Phil Connolly and Mary Ann Dearlove confirmed

Performance, Free, Library

The moment that gets you in – Poetry workshop with John Foggin

A fast moving practical workshop which will focus on memory – of sight, sound, touch and empathy as the basis for re-imagining those moments that are significant, around which a poem can grow.

Library

National Poetry Day Afternoon Reading

If you pop into The Marriott Room at York Explore on National Poetry Day who will you find there? You may be in for a big surprise as we have invited some marvellous poets to pop- up and read their work.

*STOP PRESS*
Laura Potts and John Foggin confirmed

Performance, Free, Library

Remarkable Occurrences: Circumnavigate the World with Captain Cook

Sail with Cook at a reading of Remarkable Occurrences – Patrick Lodge’s third collection of poetry including a sequence celebrating Cook’s first voyage. York musician Judith Haswell provides appropriate musical interventions.

Performance, Library

Coffee, Cake & Poetry

Join author Pauline Kirk as she talks about writing poetry and reads some of her poems with York settings. The Friends of Bishopthorpe Library will be serving coffee, tea and delicious home-made cakes!

Performance, Free, Library

Short and Sweet

Poet Tristan Moss will lead this special workshop for National Poetry Day in the lovely surroundings of Rowntree Park. Participants will sample a range of short poems, such as Haikus, Limericks, Epigrams, Tankas, and Cinquains, discuss those they like, and potentially write one themselves.

Free, Library

Poetry Bracelets

Come and make a poetry bracelet at Lordshill Library for National Poetry Day. This is a craft activity suitable for children ages 3-11. Under 8s must be accompanied by an adult.

Free, Library

Acomb Explore Pop-up Poetry Cafe

Join poets John Gilham, Doreen Gurrey and Yvie Holder for an afternoon of sharing poetry over a cup of tea

Performance, Free, Library

Healing Words Poetry Open Mic

An exciting spoken word open mic event celebrating the power of creativity in mental health recovery. Held at Paternoster square -an amazing outdoor venue - and hosted by the very talented Cecilia Knapp.

Join us on National Poetry Day to experience performances by emerging spoken word artists, plus have an opportunity to read your own poems (3 minutes per person).

Performance, Free, Open mic

Healing Words 2019 Exhibition & Workshops

The Healing Words 2019 Poetry Exhibition and Workshops celebrate the power of creativity in mental health recovery. It showcases the entries of this year’s Healing Word’s poetry competition in a special public exhibition, with over 620 poems from the UK and around the world.
Alongside the exhibition, The Advocacy Project is running 14 free workshops on creativity and wellbeing. There is a chance for everyone to get involved: from tips for building your confidence, to techniques for getting you writing – and there is even an opportunity to take part in an open mic poetry slam! A talented bunch of workshop leaders will guide the public through 30 minute taster sessions so that they can dip their toe in and learn new skills.
Take a look at the full workshop programme. Reserve your seat today, and come and join us.

Performance, Free, Open mic, Exhibition

Poetry launch party: The Women Left Behind

Join us to celebrate the launch of The Women Left Behind by Imogen Russell Williams, illustrated by Chris Riddell. 'Now and then writer and subject are perfectly matched. This is true of Imogen Russell Williams and her stranded women, drawn from from mythology, drama, as well as adult and children's fiction.' Kevin Crossley-Holland

6.30 - 8.00pm

Reading, Free

All Saints Session Candlelit Music and Poetry

Music & Poetry performance hosted by Cheryl Moskowitz and musician/composer Alastair Gavin.

Special guests poet Richard Price and cellist Ian Burdge.

£5/free to N9/N18 residents

Reading, Performance

Children’s Poetry Reading

Join us at the Lichfield Street Hub to celebrate National Poetry Day with a children's poetry reading.

We will be reading poetry from Roald Dahl, Michael Rosen and more!

£1 per child

Performance, Library

Cosy Truths A Workshop for National Poetry Day with Jean Laurie

Jean Laurie from Inline Poets will be leading a poetry workshop exploring real and imagined truths about our family and national heritages at the Northern Poetry Library at Morpeth Chantry.

Reading, Library

Haiku Encounter: In search of Truth

A 90 minute walkshop aimed at adults or children over 12 in discovering how ‘Truth’ is commemorated in the City of London, in which you get to compose and recite haiku - 3 lined short poem usually associated with Japanese culture.

Performance, Open mic

Jackie Kay at Haddo Arts Festival

Enjoy an hour in the company of Jackie Kay, The Makar, as she reads some of her poetry and talks about her work with the exuberance that has endeared her to audiences. Jackie's session is preceded by a 20 minutes recital of cello and piano music performed by Ruaraidh Williams and Jermey Coleman of North East Scotland Music School.

Performance

Library Limerick Competition

Have a go at creating a 'Library Limerick' for National Poetry Day and be in with a chance to win a prize and have your limerick immortalised on a plaque to keep forever!
entries to be submitted to stocktonborough.libraries@stockton.gov.uk

Closing date 5pm Friday 27th September

Free, Library, Prize

National Poetry Day

Come and discover Sylvia Pankhurst's poetry in her former home, and the birthplace of the suffragette movement. We'll have a selection of Sylvia's poetry available to read in the Pankhurst parlour and throughout the museum from 10am - 4pm on October 3. Free entry.

Free

The Zen of Ordinary Things

We are holding workshops over three weeks combining the art of Enso and poetry of Haiku at St. Nicholas Hospital Gosforth. Although not open to others to attend, the work created through this recovery college, art and education event will be displayed as part of an exhibition at the hospital and in the future a local museum. The workshops are taking place 10-24th of September.

Poetry Night at Studio 1A theatre

Everyone sits in a circle on the stage and in a relaxed, no pressure atmosphere we take turns to read a poem or two that we've brought along. Follow this year's theme if possible but all poems and all visitors are welcome. The event is free.

Reading, Free, Open mic

Tony Maude Poetry Performance

Celebrate National Poetry Day with Tony Maude, a songwriter and poet who combines great stories from literature with music, guitar and occasionally ukulele!

As part of his Autumn 2019 tour of libraries and theatres, this poetry performance of original works with accompanying illustrations by Monica Brufton and Peter Jones also introduces Kipling, Shakespeare and R. L. Stevenson, among others! Music, songs and poetic riddles will guarantee an entertaining, stimulating and interactive experience for all.

A unique opportunity to see how music and poetry build their own stage and the audience is, as in Shakespeare's time, drawn into the action.

Performance, Free, Library

National Poetry Day Wrexham

Voicebox will host a 12 hour poetry extravaganza with local showcase, talks and workshops. There will also be a local highlights book stall and community poems. It will be hosted at Ty Pawb, Wrexham.

Performance, Free, Open mic

Poetry workshop

Truth, beauty, love, freedom .... but the greatest of these is Truth!
Are the muses speaking to you? Come and join our Poetry Workshop with poet Charlotte Baldwin.
Harlington Library - October 3rd 2.40-3.40

Free, Library

Erdington Hall Primary Poetry Day

Our whole school day will focus on poetry, looking at this year's theme of Truth.

Scarborough Writers tell the truth about life

Members of the Scarborough Writers' Circle and guests get together for a themed evening for National Poetry Day: 'Truth'. Bring a poem you have read that stops you in its tracks, or one that you have written.

Library

Poetry Karaoke

This evening you are warmly invited to spend some time in the company of favourite and new friends, sharing favourite and new poems!
Thursday 3rd October is National Poetry Day with the theme of Truth and is 'open mic' night at Dogberry & Finch. Bring along your favourite poem to read out, or pick one to read from our Poetry Lucky Dip, or if you'd prefer, just sit and listen.

Free, Open mic

National Poetry Day readings

Members of the Macclesfield Writing Group and members of the public will be reading both poems they have written and those already in the public domain in Macclesfield library. Anybody is welcome to join in.

Performance, Free, Library, Open mic

Spoken Word at London Bridge

Connect with the power of poetry as 10 of the county’s most outstanding spoken word poets perform at London Bridge on 3rd October for National Poetry Day.

Join us beside the ticket office on the concourse from 4pm-5pm and 6pm-7pm and stop for a moment to witness the power of a single, passionate poetic voice.

Performance

Truth Poetry Day

Poetry & Music Assembly led by James Carter - Truth poems / Poetry Writing Workshops around the classrooms on the theme of 'Truth/ Big Finale - children reading their poems at the end of the day!

Performance

Postcard Poems launch

Stoke-on-Trent Libraries is proud to host the launch of Poetry on Loan’s Postcard Poems.

Poetry on Loan, an organisation which promotes contemporary poetry through libraries in the West Midlands, has commisioned eight poems on the theme of “Anniversary”. The poems are published on illustrated postcards, and will be free to collect from libraries across the city.

Four of the featured poets – Jane Seabourne, Steve Pottinger, Mandy Ross and Cathy Whittaker - will appear at City Central Library, Hanley, on Saturday 12 October at 11am, to read and perform their work. The event is aimed at adults and is free to attend, although tickets should be booked in advance. It is supported by City Voices Creative Writers’ Group.

To book tickets, contact City Central Library on 01782 238455, or central.library@stoke.gov.uk

Performance, Free, Library

Meet your Bristol City Poet

Vanessa Kisuule is the Bristol City Poet for 2018 - 2020 and on National Poetry Day she is visiting Fishponds library to talk all things poetry, books and stories.

Come and have a bespoke poem written, get book recommendations, or even tips on your own creative writing.

People of all ages welcome - it's free and there is no need to book.

Thursday 3rd October - Fishponds Library during opening hours (11-7pm).

Free, Library

After Hours spoken word and music open mic

Open mic in a historical theatre.
Groundlings Theatre.
In Portsmouth.
7pm to 9pm.
All welcome.
Only £3 fee towards room hire.

Performance, Open mic

NPD 2019 with Matt Harvey!

Celebrate the 25th National Poetry Day at CCB with Matt Harvey.

Matt will be performing poems from his book Sit! a book with dogs in – dogs by turns: alert, helpful, disobedient and tuneful. All with largely well-meaning ‘owners’, and all drawn for your pleasure and understanding by Claudia Schmid.

Matt will somehow be tying this in to the National Poetry Day theme of TRUTH and signing copies of Sit! (ideal as presents for dog-lovers, poetry-lovers, and pretty much anyone else).

Tickets £5

Performance

Poetry readings at the Life Rooms

Poetry readings from a range of local people, service-users, carers, staff and members of the the Life Rooms writing groups.

10.30 am - 12.45 pm at Life Rooms, Walton.

1 pm - 3 pm at Life Rooms, Bootle.

Performance, Free, Library, Open mic

National Poetry Day Open Mic

A local celbration of National Poetry Day with five poets from The 1000 Monkeys reading as features: Heather Moulson, Jeremy Loynes, Ray Pool, Rochelle Parker and Kyle McHale. Hosted by Janice and Dónall Dempsey. An open mic (five minutes each reader) - sign up at the door. Free, with a bar.

Performance, Free, Open mic

Poetry Party for National Poetry Day

Come and join our Poetry Party and celebrate National Poetry Day at the Wordsworth Trust, with special host Kim Moore.

The theme for this year is ‘Truth’ and our guest poet will be the fabulous Ruby Robinson. Ruby’s debut collection 'Every Little Sound' was published in 2016 by Pavilion Poetry. Colette Bryce wrote that ‘The most vital poetry is fuelled by truth, even when it may expose us to the source of pain. Ruby Robinson’s poems enact this risk with great skill, reaffirming the power of the art’.

There will also be an open mic session during the evening – sign up on the door to read your own poems or a favourite poem by someone else that explores the theme of truth.

Cost: £5

Performance, Library, Open mic

In Poetry, Truth

Celebrate National Poetry Day with us! It is a day to enjoy, discover and share poetry and the spoken word.
All are welcome to an open mic night led by Lewisham Multicultural Writers’ Group. In this session, the theme will be Truth.

Performance, Free, Library, Open mic, Exhibition

Digbeth poetry Trail

The poetry trail starts at Gibb Street plaza, by the graffiti shop at 11 am on Thursday 3rd October. It ambles around places including the Old Crown pub and ends at The Arches where Arts All Over The Place have a multi arts festival. In the afternoon there's a gathering in the café at The Arches, Adderley Street, with a chance for creative writing led by Jan Watts and Cathy Crossley. All free and all welcome.

Performance, Free, Open mic

Live Poem Reveal

CUH are going to be unveiling one of the poems taken from the 'Taking Note' project as a permanent fixture on our Art Walk corridor. The poem by one of the poets will be read at the unveiling. The poet whose work we will be celebrating is Kaddy Benyon who is a Cambridge woman who is quite popular in the poetry world.

Performance, Free

Poetry weekend at Renishaw Hall & Gardens

Poetry trails in the award winning gardens.
Recitals of the Sitwell's poems and local poets inspired by Renishaw.
Historic Hall Tours.
Poems in the Cafe.
Museum focusing on the life of the Sitwell Trio.

Reading, Performance

Allie Esiri and Shakespeare for Every Day of the Year at the FT Weekend Festival

Join Allie Esiri with a stellar list of performers reciting from her new anthology of Shakespeare for Every Day of the Year.

Performance

The London Spanish Book & Zine Fair

The London Spanish Book & Zine Fair presents authors and publishers, showcasing artist’s books, fanzines and related material. Talks, workshops, activities and signings will take place throughout the fair on 4th and 5th OCTOBER.

The London Spanish Book and Zine Fair is the first fair of its kind in the United Kingdom showcasing books and fanzines in Spanish.

LSBF aims to generate a place for promotion and recognition of literature written in Spanish (bilingual/English) generating new links between authors, publishers and new audiences in the UK. At the same time it serves as a meeting place of book enthusiasts.

LSBF is sponsored by OWRI Cross Language Dynamics, The Institute of Modern Languages (School of Advanced Studies – University of London), The European Bookshop and La Tundra Revista

The event is free but visitors must register in advance. The event will take place at InSpire - the Crypt at St Peter's, Liverpool Grove, London SE17 2HH

Free, Open mic, Exhibition

Poetry Reading with Menna Elfyn and Guests

A poetry reading in Goldstone Books Carmarthen with Menna Elfyn, Jeni Williams, Ros Hudis and Guests.

Tickets £5 -- profits to charity.

Reading, Performance

Within Sight

A poetry theatre show about disability and the Paralympics at the Scottish Storytelling Centre. Written and performed by Ellen Renton, funded by Unlimited and Creative Scotland.

Performance

National Poetry Day Celebration

Members of the Wokingham Library Poetry Group will be reading from their work to celebrate National Poetry Day, with the theme of: The Truth Will Out.
Free event, not bookable. Refreshments available. Thursday October 3 6.30pm to 7.45pm

Performance, Free, Library

Poetry Funfair

Nottingham UNESCO City of Literature and the Poetry Pulse project have joined forces with Nottingham Playhouse and poet Ben Norris to offer a whole evening of festivities to celebrate National Poetry Day on Thursday 3rd October.

From 5pm to 6pm, three poets from the Nottingham Creative Writing hub are leading a free writing workshop for writers: Moments of Truth. Then, from 6pm to 8pm, NUCoL present the Poetry Funfair! We celebrate the National Poetry Day theme of truth with a fanfare of funfair activities, including guess-the-weight-of-the-truth, poetry hook-a-duck, a poetry fortune teller, juggler, and ghost train!

With a chance to see films produced as part of the Midlands3Cities Poetry Pulse project, there’s also the chance to bring a long and film your own poem, as well as adding your words to our collaborative poem to celebrate the occasion. All events are free and suitable for all ages!

Performance, Free

Chat and Choose – Celebrating National Poetry Day

Come along to our Poetry themed chat and choose morning on the 30th Sept at 11am and bring a poem to share over tea and coffee. This will be a lovely way to celebrate National Poetry Day which is on the 3rd October.

Free, Library

Poetry from the lookout

Members of Suffolk Poetry Society and anyone who wishes to join us will read their poems with the theme of TRUTH from the steps of the South Lookout Aldeburgh beach as guests of Poetry Arts Club.

Performance, Free, Open mic

Northumbrian Evening for National Poetry Day

Join us at The Sill: National Landscape Discovery Day to celebrate National Poetry Day the Northumbrian way.

Hear original, evocative poetry from the InHouse writers group; enjoy traditional music and song (including the Northumbrian pipes).

All this and Northumbrian themed nibbles too!

6.30pm - doors open - Northumbrian nibbles & welcome drink

7.00pm - Northumbrian pipes

7.30pm - 8.00pm - InHouse Poetry reading & pipes

Reading, Performance

A reading of John Clare on National Poetry day

This is our 17th year - a reading of John Clare poetry in Northampton town centre. In the Guildhall courtyard by the statue of John Clare. Guest speakers.

His story is told then everybody reads on of his poems.

7pm

NATIONAL POETRY DAY in Northampton

Performance, Free

Poems in the Kitchen

For its 7th year, a drop-in to a large Waterbeach family kitchen to share poems we have loved or valued, either published or written by ourselves. All welcome :free refreshments (10am-6pm)- park by Waterbeach Green. Bus-stops nearby.[Only one disabled-parking space outside Roseyard Cottage, Primrose Lane, CB25 9JZ. Use the lane access by the Opticians on CB25 9HW)

Donations for MSF humanitarian work in Middle East.

Free, Open mic

Chippenham shop window

Shops in the market town of Chippenham, Wiltshire, will have a poem in their shop window  on National Poetry Day so that it can be read by passing shoppers. Each display will be photographed and shared via the local press. Don't forget you can pick up some great poetry books in the town's charity shops too.

Free, Exhibition

Reading ZoneLive/NPD filming

Poetry performance and Q and A with Michaela Morgan filmed on Sept 18th and distributed to schools for National Poetry Day.

Performance

The Truth about Poetry

Open mic with 20 pre-booked slots. All readers allowed two poems only, one of which should be about the theme of 'Truth'.

Thursday 3 October, 3.00-5.00, Bolton Central Library and Museum, BL1 1ST.

Free.

Details on LfW website or from LAMS. Slots can be booked via Paul@livefromworktown.org. Readers to provide two/three line biography so we know who we're introducing. Comperes, Dave Morgan and Paul Blackburn from Live from Worktown. All welcome. Anyone turning up who wants to read but hasn't booked will be put on a reserve in case we don't have full 20 readers on the day. Refreshments provided by Bolton LAMS.

 

Performance, Free, Library, Open mic

Every Object Tells a Story

Come and explore the stories and history of Perton on your doorstep with poet Mal Dewhirst and objects and documents from the Staffordshire County Collections.

Tuesday 8th October 10:00am – 12:00
FREE (Refreshments provided)

Contact Perton Library for more information on 0300 111 8000 or at perton.library@staffordshire.gov.uk

Free, Library, Exhibition

Perton Library Teen Poetry Group

On Thursday 10th October the Perton Library Teen Poetry Group will be looking at 'Truth' in poetry for National Poetry Day.

Free, just drop-in

5:30pm - 6:30pm

Contact us on 0300 111 8000 for more information

Free, Library

Codsall Writers Group hosts Jane Seabouren through Poetry on Loan

Jane Seabourne, local poet, will be talking to Codsall Writers Group at the weekly meeting.

Please note: this is a closed event for members of the group only.

Performance, Library

Announcement of Staffordshire’s Poet Laureate and Young Poet Laureate

Announcement of the new Poet Laureates at Stafford Library during an Poetry open mic night

Performance, Free, Library, Open mic

Saturday Poetry

Poetry readings at Oundle Library on Saturday, 5 October @ 2.30pm to celebrate National Poetry Day. From favourites to free form verse. Refreshments. Free to attend.

Performance, Free, Library

National Poetry Day: Poems In The Period Rooms

There'll be poems on display in the beautifully-restored period rooms of Elizabeth Gaskell's House - the former home of Manchester's most famous novelist.Come along and soak up the poetry in the place where some of English literature's best-loved novels were written.

Exhibition

Children’s Poetry Reading

We will be having a children's poetry reading at the Lichfield Street Hub Library.

The session is £1 per child.

Performance, Library

Poetry For Lunch

Poetry for Lunch will be an opportunity for aspiring poets and writers to showcase their work and for poetry lovers to share their favourite poems.

Tickets are £2 per person. Email ahead for a chance to perform or just book to watch.

Performance, Library, Open mic

UEA Live: National Poetry Day

UEA LIVE, in collaboration with The National Centre for Writing, brings you a series of readings showcasing the past, present and future of UEA writing talent. Headline authors are supported by student writers from across the current UEA Creative Writing programmes, as well as faculty and fellows. Books and Drinks available!

Entrance is free and unticketed.

The first event of the 2019/20 season will celebrate National Poetry Day 2019 with an all poetry line up including Cat Woodward, Kendel Hippolyte and Andrea Holland.

Performance, Free

Come Back To Me My Language: Poetry and the West Indies

To celebrate National Poetry Day, the University of Glasgow Creative Writing Programme in association with the Scottish Poetry Library are delighted to present this very special event with Professor J. Edward Chamberlin introduced by Colin Herd.

Come Back To My My Language: Poetry and the West Indies has just been re-published (with a new Afterword) this spring by Peepal Tree Press, 25 years after its first publication in the United States, Canada and Jamaica.

The event will be followed by a drinks reception.

Free

Poetry Party with Ruby Robinson

Come and join our Poetry Party and celebrate National Poetry Day at the Wordsworth Trust, with special host Kim Moore.

The theme for this year is ‘Truth’ and our guest poet will be the fabulous Ruby Robinson. Ruby’s debut collection Every Little Sound was published in 2016 by Pavilion Poetry. Colette Bryce wrote that ‘The most vital poetry is fuelled by truth, even when it may expose us to the source of pain. Ruby Robinson’s poems enact this risk with great skill, reaffirming the power of the art’.

There will also be an open mic session during the evening – sign up on the door to read your own poems or a favourite poem by someone else that explores the theme of truth.
Cost: £5

Performance, Open mic

Pam Ayres at Highgrove Gardens

AN AUDIENCE WITH PAM AYRES

Thursday 3rd October 2019

At this special event to celebrate National Poetry Day, you’ll enjoy an Audience with Pam Ayres, savouring either a delicious two-course lunch, or a champagne tea, and a guided tour of the Royal Gardens at Highgrove.

All guests will receive a signed copy of Pam’s new book ‘Up in the Attic’ which will be published in September 2019.

Pam’s new book, ‘Up in the Attic’, is her first new collection since 2013. From the horror of playing host in ‘The Dinner Party’, and complaints about tableware in ‘Don’t Put My Dinner on the Slate!’, to the poignant ‘Up in the Attic’, and the sadness of wartime ‘Down the Line’, this new collection will tickle and move guests in equal measure.

For further information, and to book tickets, go to the Highgrove Gardens website at www.highgrovegardens.com/collections/events.

Performance

Sue Dyde’s Poetry Pop Up

Zany storyteller and poet Sue Dyde will be performing the picture book Sometimes I Feel Sunny by Gillian Shields and making us laugh with her silly rhymes and poems.

Sometimes I Feel Sunny by Gillian Shields is a lovely book that explores all the different emotions that young children feel. Celebrating happy times as well as acknowledging 'scratchy, grumpy and yucky days.'

These events are free and suitable for under fives. Please contact the library for further details.

1.30pm - 2.30pm

Performance, Free, Library

Zaytouna Primary Day of Poetry

Pupils at Zaytouna Primary School in Derby will be celebrating National Poetry Day with a series of workshops with teachers and with Jonny Walker, a writing teacher and founder of OtherWise Education.

Children will be interrogating different understandings of truth, and writing expressive poetry from their experiences, in response to the poems of Karl Nova, Victoria Adukwei Bulley, Rachel Roony Joseph Coelho and Michael Rosen,

Performance

Defend Our NHS: speaking truth – about health and the NHS

As part of National Poetry Day, and noting the day's theme of 'truth', Defend Our NHS invites you to Birkenhead. You can sit, listen, chat and enjoy a drink. Or - it's an open mic event - you can recite a poem, sing a song, tell us a story. Be creative. Tell us the truth about health and defending OUR NHS. If you want to perform email defendournhswirral@gmail.com with your name and your proposed contribution. DONHS knows the truth. Who wants to hear it?

Open mic

Home Truths Poetry Workshop

‘Ordinary people with extraordinary stories’

A workshop in which you can tell the truth about something that matters to you, or deliver a home truth, or – just possibly – tell a big lie. The workshop will be led by Jean Atkin, National Poetry Day BBC Poet for Shropshire. Jean will also perform the poem commissioned for Shropshire.
Workshop supported by Arts Alive, part of Creative Conversations.

Performance, Library

A Quite Enormous Poetry Event

Nottingham Playhouse is the place to be on National Poetry Day.

Hosted by Ben Norris and featuring performances from a frankly ridiculous line-up including Dizraeli, Liz Berry, Caroline Bird, Vanessa Kisuule, Debris Stevenson, Bohdan Piasecki, Will Harris, Georgina Wilding, Jamie Thrasivoulou and Michael Southan, A Quite Enormous Poetry Event promises to be just that: enormous. And doubtless, very, very good.

The main stage show is preceded by several hours of poetic amusements and distractions in the shape of The Poetry Funfair, curated by Becky Cullen.

Reading, Performance, Spectacular

Portobello Book Festival

The Portobello Bookshop hosts prize-winning Edinburgh poet Michael Pederson who will talk about his recent work including his collection Oyster.

6.30pm-8pm

All events free but ticketed and available in advance from Portobello Library.

Reading, Performance, Free, Library

Off The Shelf

Teaching Fellow Sue Spencer will be returning to Newcastle University Library to take poetry off the shelf and share some meaningful conversations about the truths that really matter.

Drop in for a one-to-one chat and she’ll offer a listening ear and a poem to inspire, soothe and comfort you!

Wednesday 2nd October, 3-5pm - Law Student Common Area, Newcastle Law School

Thursday 3rd October, 4.40-6.30pm - Walton Library, Newcastle University Medical School

No appointments necessary.

Brought to you in conjunction with the Medicine in Literature and Law in Literature Collections.

Library

Poetry Party for National Poetry Day

A Poetry Party to celebrate National Poetry Day at the Wordsworth Trust, with special host Kim Moore.

The theme for this year's National Poetry Day is ‘Truth’ and our guest poet will be the fabulous Ruby Robinson. Ruby’s debut collection Every Little Sound was published in 2016 by Pavilion Poetry. Colette Bryce wrote that ‘The most vital poetry is fuelled by truth, even when it may expose us to the source of pain. Ruby Robinson’s poems enact this risk with great skill, reaffirming the power of the art’.

There will also be an open mic session during the evening – sign up on the door to read your own poems or a favourite poem by someone else that explores the theme of truth.

Reading, Performance, Open mic

Poetry Karaoke

Open Mic, an opportunity for people to share their own poems and their favourite poems with each other or, if they prefer, to sit and listen.

Free, Library, Open mic

Poetry Open Mic

Join our Poetry Group in reading your own or your favourite poems.

10:30 am to 12:00 noon

This event will be occurring in the main library space, therefore all poems must be family friendly.

Free, Library, Open mic

Saying Words at the Goose

It's National Poetry Day, so let's have some words said at us.

This is Saying Words, an evening of poetry that comes from the mouths of the people who have written those poems.

FEATURING THESE PEOPLE SAYING WORDS

Pete Strong - Poet
Lizzy Coad
Daniel Parsonage
Lia Burge Rogers
Tamara Cornish
Gary Goodman

With an end of the night words-being-said from

Brendan Cleary

Performance, Free, Open mic

A Celebration of Poetry with Hugh Dunkerley

Chichester Library - Thursday 3 October 2019, 7.30pm.

Celebrate National Poetry Day with award-winning poet Hugh Dunkerley reading from his new collection, 'Kin.'

Hugh’s accolades include the Eric Gregory and BBC Wildlife Poet Awards.

Enjoy live music from Linda Kelsall-Barnett on classical guitar and share your own poetry in the open mic section of the evening. Readers and listeners are equally welcome.

Copies of Hugh Dunkerley’s collections will be available to purchase at the event (payment by cash only.)

Tickets £7.00 each (to include a glass of wine 18+) available from Chichester Library: 01243 777351 / chichester.library@westsussex.gov.uk

Performance, Library, Open mic

No Stone Unturned

Join the Crichton Writers at Dumfries Museum for a literary evening celebrating the built history of Dumfries, with readings of poetry and prose about the sandstone, structures and sculptures of the town. The art and craft of Dumfries’ architects, builders and stonemasons will be explored in a stunning live set. Refreshments will be served. The Crichton Writers is a group of Dumfries and Galloway writers who meet monthly in Dumfries at the Crichton Campus. Members' work has been prize-winning, widely published and anthologised.
Entry is free, and all are welcome.
7pm to 9pm.

Performance, Free

Open Mic poetry evening

Open Mic poetry evening open to all to contribute or just to listen on National Poetry Day

Free, Open mic

Shakespeare for Every Day of the Year at the National Theatre with Allie Esiri

For the fourth year running, and following the success of A Poem for Every Night of the Year, A Poem for Every Day of the Year and Women Poets Through the Ages, Allie Esiri is back with a show based on her latest anthology; Shakespeare for Every Day of the Year. Actors who will reading from the anthology will be announced shortly.

Performance

Poems To Fall In Love With Poetry Event

Love is in the air as former Children's Laureate, Observer political cartoonist and award-winning writer and illustrator Chris Riddell will be hosting a poetry event to please both the eyes and ears. Accompanied by some very special guests, Chris will guide you on visual journey through a selection of his very favourite classic and modern poems about love, heartbreak and passion from his new poetry anthology, Poems To Fall In Love With.

Performance

Poems To Fall In Love With Poetry Event

Beloved illustrator and political cartoonist Chris Riddell is coming to Ely to celebrate his beautiful new book. In Poems to Fall in Love With Chris Riddell has selected and illustrated his very favourite classic and modern poems about love. This gorgeously illustrated collection celebrates love in all its guises, from silent admiration through passion to tearful resignation. These poems speak of the universal experiences of the heart and are brought to life with Chris’s exquisite, intricate artwork. This perfect gift features famous poems, old and new, and a few surprises. Classic verses sit alongside the modern to create the ultimate collection.

We are delighted to welcome Chris to Ely for the first time, and we hope you can join us for this early autumn highlight!

Performance

Poems To Fall In Love With

Love is in the air as former Children's Laureate, Observer political cartoonist and award-winning writer and illustrator Chris Riddell will be hosting a poetry event to please both the eyes and ears. Accompanied by some very special guests, Chris will guide you on visual journey through a selection of his very favourite classic and modern poems about love, heartbreak and passion from his new poetry anthology, Poems To Fall In Love With.

Performance

Emily Galvin – Poet in Residence at Lichfield Library

Emily Galvin will officially become the Poet in Residence at Lichfield Library from the 3rd October 2019. Look out for some exciting events to follow!

Library

Betjeman Poetry Prize

The winners of the 2019 Betjeman Prize for Poetry will be announced a special ceremony at St Pancras Station on National Poetry Day, 3 October. This year's competition judges are poets Wendy Cope and Lachlan Mackinnon.

Performance, Prize

Books and Beverages

Listen to a selection of our favourite poems and short stories whilst having refreshments.

Performance, Library

Chapter and Verse Poetry Reading

Enjoy an evening of live literature from three established and award-winning poets, David Clarke, Ross Cogan and Amanda Bonnick, as they take you on a thought provoking spoken word journey at The Hive.

David Clarke Winner of the Michael Marks award in 2013, David’s first collection, 'Arc', was published by Nine Arches Press in 2015 and was longlisted for the Polari Prize. 'Scare Stories' was published by V Press in 2017 and was named a Poetry School ‘Book of the Year.’

Ross Cogan Ross has published three collections: 'Stalin’s Desk' (2005) and 'The Book I Never Wrote' (2012) and 'Bragr' (2018) with Seren. Ross won first place in The Exeter Prize, The Staple Open Poetry Competition, The Frogmore Poetry Prize, The Crabbe Memorial Prize, and The Cannon Poets Sonnet Competition and second prize in the Troubadour International Poetry Competition.

Amanda Bonnick has co-hosted the Word and Sound open mic event and has performed her poetry at Parole Parlate, SpeakEasy, Licensed to Rhyme, and Stirchley Speaks spoken word events. She recently published her poetry pamphlet 'Pick Your Own'.

Time: 7pm (starting 7:30pm)

FREE but booking is essential

Book tickets here

Performance, Free, Library

What is Truth? Daljit Nagra at Chelsmford Library

Join award-winning poet Daljit Nagra as he delves into the theme for this year’s National Poetry Day: Truth.

Daljit possesses one of the most distinctive voices in contemporary English poetry: through his work, he explores the idealism and reality of multicultural Britain with wit, intelligence and no small sense of mischief. With a political and often challenging edge, and always with a powerful play on language, his poems meditate on a wide range of subjects, from race-relations, aspiration, assimilation and alienation; to heritage, legacy and our shared sense of a national identity.

This is a free event but booking is required.

Reading, Performance, Free, Library

Library Lates National Poetry Day Celebration

Thursday 3rd October 5.45pm - 7.00pm

Join us at Balsall Common Library to celebrate the 25th anniversary of National Poetry Day, with readings from students at Heart of England School and a guest performance from Giovanni 'Spoz' Esposito.

A limited number of open mic slots are available. Please contact the library on 01676 532590 for more information.

This is a free event supported by Balsall Common Writers and Poetry on Loan.

Performance, Free, Library, Open mic

BBC Contains Strong Language

Fake tan and body builders, flat caps and old factories, #BBCLocalPoets challenges the outdated clichés and celebrates all that is regionally distinctive about the North.

Ian McMillan introduces a group of spoken word poets whose work pays homage to the culture, customs and unexpected delights of living in the North of England. Each poet has teamed up with their BBC Local Radio station to create a brand new commission inspired by listeners who love their local area.

The BBC Local Poets are Jean Atkin, Alice Gretton, Theresa Lola, Molly Naylor, Nairobi Thompson, Timi Amusan, Warda Yassin, Jamie Thrasivolou, Kimwei McCarthy, Harry Gallagher, Jodie Langford, Jane Routh and Liv Torc.

Free but ticketed.

Reading, Performance, Free

Jasmine Gardosi and Rupinder Kaur

Jasmine Gardosi is a Birmingham based poet of national and international standing and renown. She has appeared on BBC Radio 3’s The Verb, BBC Asian Network and Glastonbury Festival.

Rupinder Kaur is a Birmingham born Panjabi poet and biomedical science student with a love for South Asian arts. She sees writing and reading poetry as a way to liberate the soul.

Performance

In poetry, truth – celebrating National Poetry Day

An Open Mic evening starting at 7pm featuring local poets including Mel Wardle Woodend, current Staffordshire Poet Laureate Emily Rose Galvin and Staffordshire's Young Poet Laureate Lily Massey, among many others. The new Poet Laureates for Staffordshire will be announced during the evening, along with many poetry contributions. Entrance is free, donations for delicious home made cakes gratefully received!

Performance, Library, Open mic

The Truth Will Out!

Members of the Wokingham Library Poetry Writing Group read from their work to celebrate National Poetry Day. Light refreshments wil be available

Performance, Free, Library

Tell Me The Truth About Life: Cerys Matthews and Michael Morpurgo in conversation

Celebrate the 25th anniversary of National Poetry Day with songwriter, singer and broadcaster Cerys Matthews, curator of this year's companion anthology Tell Me the Truth About Life, as she discusses the extraordinary range of the collection with special guest Michael Morpurgo.

Reading, Performance

Appledore Book Festival

National Poetry Day Ambassador Joseph Coelho is appearing on the Appledore Book Festival schools programme.  Schools looking to book can find out more here.

Reading, Performance

Joseph Coelho at the Somerset Literacy Network Conference

National Poetry Day Ambassador Joseph Coelho will be sharing poems at the Somerset Literacy Network Conference

Reading, Performance

Nothing but the Truth

Barton Muse has around attenders in Barton upon Humber. We meet monthly and encourage others to join in with an informal Open Mic. Attenders have written on the theme of Truth and these have been collected in the form of an anthology to be published on National Poetry Day. We hope to launch the booklet locally.

Performance

The Third Ripon Poetry Festival

Sue Hardy Dawson Performance from Where Zebras Go and Apes to Zebras in the Ripon Library. Free 12th October

lots of events with different poets 10th to 13th October

Performance, Library

Poetry Reading

On National Poetry Day 2019, our shortlisted Year 7-Year 9 pupils at Ibstock Place School, London, will perform the poems they have written about this year's NPD theme. Teachers will select a winner who will receive a ticket to hear Simon Armitage speak at Wimbledon BookFest.

Performance

Rachel Rooney at Bute House

National Poetry Day ambassador and award-winning poet Rachel Rooney is visiting Bute House Preparatory School to celebrate National Poetry Day.

Forward Prizes for Poetry: Northern Preview

In this unique event, jointly supported by Manchester Writing School at Manchester Met, and Forward Arts Foundation, we’ll whet your appetite for the Forward Prizes Ceremony by hearing from the poets shortlisted for the Best Collection Prize. Join us to celebrate the very best in this year’s poetry and hear what the poets have to say about their work, and the shortlist they’ve found themselves on. Featuring Fiona Benson, Niall Campbell, Ilya Kaminsky, Vidyan Ravinthiran and Helen Tookey.

Book your free tickets on EventBrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/forward-prizes-for-poetry-northern-preview-tickets-69025516177

Reading, Performance

A Literation

A Literation - Poetry, Prose and Performance
Thursday 3rd October 7:30pm to 11:30pm

Cellar Arts Club Worthing, bring you an evening of original Poetry, Prose and Performance.

Performance

Stephen James Smith live with special guest Tony Walsh

Dublin poet Stephen James Smith live with special guest Tony Walsh.

 

Reading, Performance

The Black Box presents Stephen James Smith & Tony Walsh

The Black Box is delighted to present Stephen James Smith & Tony Walsh

Reading, Performance

Stephen James Smith with special guest Tony Walsh

Stephen James Smith is a Dublin poet and playwright central to the rise of the vibrant spoken word scene in Ireland today. For this special reading at HomePlace he'll be joined by Manchester poet Tony Walsh.

Reading, Performance

Penzance Poetry Parlour

Penzance Poetry Parlour is back with poets Ann Gray and Sarah Cave, plus cava and popcorn. The event is hosted by Katrina Naomi.

Reading, Performance

Reading and open mic: Katrina Naomi at the Admiral Benbow

Poet Katrina Naomi will be reading at the Admiral Benbow pub with Sue Johns. Plus open mic.

Reading, Open mic

An Evening of Poetry and Music

Children will recite favourite poems and read their own poems - ballads, spoken word and monologues - with musical interludes under the theme of truth. Town Close School., Norwich

Performance, Free

Celebrate Local Poetry

Details to follow. A number of local poets will be visiting the Rabbit Hole throughout the day.
Times to be confirmed.

Performance, Free, Prize, Exhibition

National Poetry Day 2019

The Soulful Group is an emerging social enterprise based in Leicester with an international footprint. We are hosting a COMPLIMENTARY gathering which promises to be intimate, supportive and relaxed in honour of NATIONAL POETRY DAY 2019 ! Join in the fun and bring an existing poem or original work to share with us on the day. Email us hello@soulfulgroup to reserve a 5 minute open mic slot.

Performance, Free, Open mic

Our Truth @Alsop

Open Mic Lunchtime Library

All Day: Poetry Event with poets
1. Hilary Walker
2. Phil McNulty

Student performance throughout the day with visiting poets.

Performance, Free, Library, Open mic

Charles Bennett: Cloud River

Charles Bennett is the Associate Professor of Poetry at the University of Northampton. His latest book Cloud River is a book of lyrical landscape poetry set in the Cambridgeshire Fens. The startling originality of the book stems from its mission to revise and overturn the impression of a flat, dull and featureless Fens. A light supper is included at our wonderfully atmospheric venue.

Venue: The Old Barn, Mill Lane, Wadenhoe PE8 5XD
Time: 7.00 - 8.30pm
Tickets £10 available from the Oundle Box Office, 4 New Street, Oundle.

Performance

Poetry & Prayer

A poetry-writing workshop grounded in the truths we find in prayer and inspired by Mary Oliver’s poem, ‘Praying’. Designed for people new to writing poetry but also suitable for more experienced poets seeking writing time and inspiration. The day will start and end with a 10-minute service of worship but you don’t have to be a Christian to come. It is being run by Helen Evans on behalf of the Parish of Central Exeter. There are seven spaces available.

Healing Words Poetry Competition

Have you experienced mental health problems, or are you a family member or friend of someone who has?

We’re inviting you to enter our poetry competition, Healing Words, which is back for its second year.

Creativity is known to help people express themselves during the darkest days of their mental illness and throughout their recovery. It helps support self-understanding of mental health conditions.

We want to celebrate the recovery journey by sharing this creativity with a wider audience to help improve understanding, tolerance and respect of mental health problems.

You can write, record or film your poem (we know some people prefer to record the spoken word or film their entry instead of writing it down). Your poem should be a maximum of 25 lines and only one entry per person.

The closing date is Sunday 8 September 2019, 5pm.

Free

BBC Scotland Authors Live

Ahead of National Poetry Day, Gray Crosbie speaks to Dean Atta and Rachel Plummer about LGBTQ identities in poetry. (For S1-S6 pupils).

Reading, Performance, Free

Banned Book Weeks: Truly Uncensored? LGBTQ+ Young Adult Literature

As part of Banned Book Week 2019, we explore the challenges facing LGBTQ+ Young Adult literature with a panel of authors and experts. What are the invisible barriers to expression and publication? And how do editors, publishers, teachers, librarians, parents or even authors contribute to unofficial censorship around LGBTQ+ issues?

Featuring Robin Stevens, author of the Murder Most Unladylike Mysteries series and Polari-shortlisted poet Dean Atta.

Reading, Performance, Library

Sydenham Arts: Dean Atta

Performance, Q&A plus book signing

Reading, Performance

What Words Are Ours

A tongue-twisting, thigh-slapping, tear-jerking poetry-cabaret show.  This sell-out, text-based variety show features a kaleidoscope of performances, from comedians, cabaret artists, visual vernacular performers, to rising stars of the spoken word scene.

Performance, Spectacular

Coast Is Queer Festival, Dean Atta & Niven Govinden In Conversation

Join writers Dean Atta and Niven Govinden for a conversation about their new books, which, in different ways, are both about standing up in pursuit of the truth – your own personal truths, or the buried facts surrounding the persecution of your community.

Reading, Performance

Edinburgh International Book Festival, Speaking Up: Dean Atta & Elizabeth Acevedo

Two powerful verse novels about identity and self-acceptance are unlocked by National Slam Poetry Champion Elizabeth Acevedo and BBC Young Writers’ Award judge Dean Atta.Get ready to learn the secrets to finding your voice.

Reading

National Trust Poetry Reading

A poetry reading to raise funds for the National Trust. Come to The George Inn in Southwark at 6pm on National Poetry Day to listen to poems from some of the nation's best-loved poets. Opportunity will also be given to recite or listen to one of your favourite poems in exchange for a donation.

Performance, Free, Open mic

Poetry to Defend Our NHS

Wirral campaign group Defend Our NHS hopes that people who share our concerns that the NHS is being 'slashed, trashed and privatised' will join us to add a poetic voice to our more usual campaign strategies. The event depends on YOU!

Free, Open mic

New Forest Poetry Retreat

This November, schools in the New Vision Trust family will be taking part in a Poetry Retreat in the New Forest, led by Jonny Walker and Adisa the Verbaliser. Through wandering around in nature and reflecting on our East London lives, we will interrogate and write on the theme of truth(s), before sharing our work in an anthology and recital in December.

Participating Schools: Elmhurst, Nelson, Vicarage, Gallions

Performance

Simon Armitage – Reading from Sandettie Light Vessel Automatic

Simon Armitage will read from his latest collection of poetry, Sandettie Light Vessel Automatic, along with others from his varied career as a musician, poet and playwright.

Reading

First Thursday Presents Simon Armitage

First Thursday presents Simon Armitage for an evening of poetry

Performance

Poet in the City presents The Black Flamingo Cabaret

Dust down your feathers for a night at The Black Flamingo Cabaret, a sumptuous display of wordplay and gender-defying drag featuring black and queer performers. Hosted by poet and drag queen Dean Atta as The Black Flamingo, the evening will feature a collection of spectacular artists subverting gender through spoken word and poetry. The evening’s line-up will include performance artist, poet and LGBTQ+ activist Travis Alabanza and Sea the Poet, an artist whose work aims to empower marginalised people, whilst dismantling oppression. Prepare for a night of spellbinding cabaret you won’t want to miss!

Performance, Spectacular

Birmingham Literature Festival

Sue Brown, Suhaiymah Manzoor-Khan, Jessica Mookherjee, Jacqueline Saphra, and Julia Webb at Birmingham Literature Festival.

On National Poetry Day, Birmingham Literature Festival will gather some of the most exciting female poets working in the UK today, for a special performance of their latest collections. Five poets, each with a different story to share about place, relationships, activism, feminism, faith, love and womanhood.

Just one of the highlights on a packed programme.

Reading, Performance, Spectacular

Ilkley Literature Festival with Simon Armitage

Simon Armitage Poet Laureate will be opening the 2019 Ilkley Literature Festival with a reading of poems from his new collection, Sandettie Light Vassel Automatic, at the King’s Hall on the evening of Friday 4 October.

The full Festival programme will be announced on 14 August.

Tickets go on general sale on 27 August but Festival Friends will be able to book from 19 August.

Reading, Performance

Settle Sessions: competition, results and readings

BBC Local Poet Jane Routh will announce the winning poems of the 2019 Settle Sessions Poetry Competition which she has adjudicated, followed by readings from Jane and from Lancaster poet and publisher Mike Barlow.

7.30 pm
Friends Meeting House

Tickets £6

Performance, Prize

Poetry at South Outlook Tower

Suffolk Poetry Society members will meet a 12:30 at South Outlook Tower on Aldeburgh beach under the kind auspices of Caroline Wiseman. Poems will be read from the spiral staircase and we will be joined by passersby and the seagulls.

Performance

BHP PRESENTS SOUNDING OFF

Celebrating 25 Years of National Poetry. BLACK HORSE POETS & FRIENDS & MUSICIANS present an evening of Poetry & Music. This combined Charity Event is on FRIDAY 4th OCTOBER at the RED SHED WAKEFIELD 7 pm to 10.30PM

Tickets are £5 on EVENTBRITE All money raised going to local women’s & men’s mental & physical health local charities. Our Theme is TRUTH ABOUT MEN & WOMEN, poems about relationships of all kinds.

Performance

The Poetry of London

Join artists and poets exploring how London inspires them.

Born in Soho, William Blake delved into the bright and dark sides of London throughout his life. This special panel discussion brings together contemporary artists and poets to consider how Blake’s vision of London has inspired their own work, and how they imagine the city today. Contributors include the poet Chris McCabe and poet and artist Sophie Herxheimer.

Reading, Performance, Exhibition

Tears in the Fence festival

This year’s Tears in the Fence Festival runs 20th to 22nd September 2019 on the theme of ‘Transitions’ at the Stourpaine Village Hall.

This will be another stimulating and inspiring weekend with a strong sense of community and engagement where everyone has an opportunity to read and speak on what matters to them. Poets taking part include Alison Winch, Simon Collings, National Poetry Day ambassador Sophie Herxheimer and many more.

Festival Weekend tickets are £35
Festival Friday tickets are £15
Festival Saturday tickets are £25
Festival Sunday tickets are £15

Reading, Performance, Open mic, Exhibition

Ripon Poetry Festival market stall

Just a week ahead of the start of Ripon Poetry Festival, we'll have a stall on Ripon market - encouraging people to talk to us about poetry (including their own), ask us about the festival, and get tickets for events.

Exhibition

Ripon Poetry Festival

A bumper weekend of pop-up poetry, poetry readings, poetry-inspired art, performances, workshops, book launches, poetry with wine and cheese, open mics and more. Over four days, the festival offers something for everyone of all ages: poetry-lovers, poetry-writers and even the doubtful explorer. Find us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Performance, Free, Open mic, Exhibition

Poetry Pharmacy: Grand Opening

You are cordially invited to a special preview event & opening of the Poetry Pharmacy for National Poetry Day.

From 4 to 7pm with a poetry reading at 6. There will be sherbets, sodas, seltzers & poetry potions for your refreshment.

Please bring along a single poem to read for the occasion.

Performance, Free, Open mic

Poems from the Edge of Extinction

The launch of a groundbreaking anthology of poetry from around the world written in endangered languages.

Edited by National Poetry Librarian Chris McCabe, Poems from the Edge of Extinction brings together poets from each continent to highlight the pressures their languages are placed under and to celebrate their work as poets and activists. The anthology brings together some of the most dynamic and engaging poets at work around the world today whose languages are under threat for reasons as diverse as political upheaval, climate breakdown, genocide, war and the enduring impact of colonialism.

Reading, Performance

Booka Bookshop presents An Evening with Gyles Brandreth

Gyles Brandreth – raconteur, former MP, One Show reporter, Just A Minute star, and author of the best-selling word-lover’s companion, Have you eaten Grandma? – has a passion for poetry. His brilliant new book – Dancing by the Light of the Moon – is both a celebration of the best-loved poems in the English language and a unique guide to the value and power of learning poetry by heart. With the secrets of how to improve your memory (whatever your age) and poetry that’s by turns funny, sad, and moving, Dancing by the Light of the Moon is a book designed to lift your spirits and change your life.

Reading, Performance

An Evening with Gyles Brandreth

Topping and Company are thrilled to be hosting the launch of Gyles Brandreth’s new book, Dancing By the Light of the Moon, both a celebration of the best-loved poems and a unique guide to the value and power of learning poetry by heart. With the secrets of how to improve your memory (whatever your age) and poetry that’s by turns funny, sad, and moving, Dancing By the Light of the Moon is a book designed to lift your spirits and change your life.

Reading, Performance

The Truth About Objects with Matt Abbott – Home Educators Session

Join us at Wakefield Museum to celebrate National Poetry Day 2019 with poet Matt Abbott.

Using our collections as inspiration we will try to discover the truth about objects. Meet a professional poet who will guide children through creating a piece of original work. Images will be taken by your child/children on iPads to record which objects inspire them to create poetry – images will be sent via email to each family for post visit work.

Library

Places of Poetry: The Kia Oval

Places of Poetry’s final stop is the Kia Oval, for the 5th Test Match of the 2019 Ashes series between Australia and England. Life-long cricket fan Zaffar Kunial is poet-in-residence. Zaffar will be producing cricket-based poetry and reading one of his poems during Test Match Special on BBC Radio 5. Places of Poetry will be running a flash sports-themed poetry competition – all you have to do is pin a sports based poem onto our map (dates for entries will be announced week commencing 2nd September, so keep an eye on the website).

Reading, Performance

Oundle Festival of Literature

Prize-winning poet Charles Bennett reads from his new book Cloud River, a book of lyrical landscape poetry set in the Cambridgeshire Fens.

A light supper is included, and you may take your own drinks or purchase hot or soft drinks at the venue.

Tickets £10 available from the Oundle Box Office, 4 New Street, Oundle.

Open hours: 10.00am – 4.00pm Mon to Fri: Tel 01832 274734, online at www.oundlefestival.org.uk

Reading, Performance

Poetry Month

A whole month dedicated to the wonders of Poetry. Including Poetry Pick and Mix, Our Favourite Poem, displays and poetry events throughout the month.

Free, Library

Allie Esiri presents Shakespeare for Every Day of the Year

Following the resounding success of her intimate poetry evenings at the National Theatre and Bridge Theatre, Allie Esiri’s latest show celebrates her new anthology: Shakespeare for Every Day of the Year, published by Macmillan this autumn. The evening will feature powerful and timely readings from Christopher Eccleston and two further actors, to be announced shortly.

Reading, Performance, Spectacular

The Good Life Experience

A festival of discovery and fun, curated by Cerys Matthews and featuring a line up of star poets including Salena Godden, Raymond Antrobus and Helen Mort.

Reading, Performance, Spectacular

Reading the Nation’s Favourite Poems

We will choose as many poems as possible in the time available to be read aloud and discussed in a relaxed atmosphere.

Ticket: £5 to include a glass of wine/tea/coffee.

Age: 12+

Ring the library to reserve a place on
0116 3053523

Reading, Performance, Library

National Poetry Day Celebrates Creativity

1. House tutor to read their favourite poem.
2. Watch NPD clips from the website.
3. Houses to make a display of a NPD recommended poem for display in corridor.
4. Creative writing club to run a poetry competition through Houses.
5. Poetry lines hunt.

Library, Prize, Exhibition

Poetry writing competition at Bodelschwingh Gymnasium

The pupils are invited to write their own poems and hand them in to the English Room at our school. These poems are judged, exhibited for the whole school to read, and prizes and certificates are awarded. This will be our third year of taking part in the National Poetry Day here at the Bodelschwingh Gymnasium in Herchen, Germany. The pupils love it and are always thrilled with the typically English prizes they receive, such as tea or Union Jack pencils!🇬🇧

Free, Prize, Exhibition

Dancing With Words

Dancing with Words explores the relationship between poetry and dance. Three dancers and three poets have taken inspiration from the NDP theme of Truth and worked in pairs to create a trilogy of exciting new work. The performance will be followed by a Q&A with the artists.

Kala Sangam Arts Centre at 7.30pm

Pay what you decide

Performance

Festival of Poetry

Join us in a celebration of poetry at the Chatterbox Tea Room in Oxton Grange Care Home on Bidston Road, Wirral. Bring a favourite short poem or one you've written. Everyone welcome!

Reading, Performance, Free

Paul Henry | Crickhowell Literary Festival, ‘The Glass Aisle’ with Rev Margaret Williams

Explore the stretch of the Monmouthshire & Brecon canal above Crickhowell, which inspired Henry’s long poem, 'The Glass Aisle'. Including readings from the poem and talk from local historian Margaret Williams.

Time: 2 - 4pm
Tickets: £15

Buy tickets from: https://cricklitfest.co.uk/event/paul-henry-the-glass-aisle-with-rev-margaret-williams/

Performance

Katherine Stansfield | Poetry Upstairs at the Hen & Chicks Abergavenny

Katherine will be reading alongside Frank Olding and John Jones at this monthly poetry happening organised by Ric Hool.

Time: 8pm
Entry: £5 on the door

Flannel Street, Abergavenny NP7 5EG

Performance

Katrina Naomi | Reading at the Loose Muse, Winchester

Katrina will be reading from her new pamphlet 'Typhoon Etiquette', published by Verve Poetry Press.

Time: 7:30-9:30pm
Tickets: £6 on the door

Performance

Inspire Poetry Festival 2019

Featuring celebrated poetry stars, regional favourites and cutting-edge newcomers, and with styles ranging from the formal lyric to freestyle spoken word, this year’s festival promises a plethora of poetry delights at venues around the county.

Reading, Performance, Library

Lincolnshire Schools Poetry Competition 2019

Competition for a poem on the subject of - “TRUTH” open to pupils of Lincolnshire Schools in the following groups:- Key Stage 1 (5-7 years) 2 (7-11 years) 3 (11-14 years) 4 (14-16 years). Entries will be judged by Chris Martin, Stamford Poet Laureate and winners will be invited to read their poem at a Prize-giving Evening on Friday 29th November 2019.
Entries via the website or by post.

Free, Prize

National Poetry Day Celebration with Chrissie Gittins

National Poetry Day Ambassador Chrissie Gittins will be performing her poems and running workshops at St Margaret's School, Hampstead.

Performance

Visit from Poet and Illustrator Chris White

A visit by poet/illustrator Chris White. More later ...!

Performance, Library

St Bartholomew’s Church

We are running a competition for our young parishioners for the best poem.

Prize

The Quality of Mersey

Contributers to the Quality of Mersey anthology will be reading their odes to our great river at the fabulous Museum of Liverpool.

Performance

An Interactive Poetry Performance with John Hegley

National Poetry Day is the annual mass celebration of poetry and all things poetical. This year’s theme will be Truth. Many a true word is spoken in jest – No Nonsense Poetry!

For primary school years 4, 5 and 6, enjoy the rhyme and rhythm of a mandolin playing poet, acclaimed as one of the greatest and wittiest wordsmiths in the UK.

Accompanied by the many keyboard voices of the fascinating Clare Elstow, with music ranging from the Blues to Baroque and Roll.

Performance

Celebration of National Poetry Day

Poetry Cafe will be putting on a staged showcase of local poetry to celebrate the day. Admission £2
East Sussex based poets are invited to take part.
If you would like to perform your poems based on the theme 'truth' at this evening event, please submit your request for a slot of 5 minutes maximum. Email to poetrycafeugt@aol.com

Performance, Open mic

National Poetry Day with The 1000 Monkeys

An evening of Open Mic with local guest readers at the Cranleigh Arts Centre, with Janice and Dónall Dempsey hosting. Performers will be announced nearer the date, by email to subscribers to our newsletter at our website and on our facebook and twitter pages.

Performance, Free, Open mic

National Poetry Day Nook Lane

An annual National Poetry Day event. It culminates in an extended assembly of live poetry readings by children and links to published poets. I prepare a poetry anthology which is read in classes in the weeks leading up to NPD and the children vote on their favourite poem in it. We also launch our poetry competition, The Nooker Prize, which takes place one month after the NPD event, where poetry based on the NPD theme is written and judged, and prizes awarded.

Performance, Prize

Henley Literary Festival

Celebrate National Poetry Day at the Henley Literary Festival. The line up includes two National Poetry Day Ambassadors - Michael Rosen and Roger Stevens. Tickets on sale now.

Reading, Performance

National Poetry Day celebration with Joshua Seigal

A special celebration with National Poetry Day Ambassador Joshua Seigal

National Poetry Day celebration with Michaela Morgan

National Poetry Day Ambassador Michaela Morgan will be leading the celebrations at Bute House School with poetry performances and workshops.

Discover Literature: Schools National Poetry Day Live

Get wordy with your class at a day of workshops and performances on National Poetry Day 2019.

After an introductory performance from SLAMbassadors and former winners of the Foyle Young Poets of the Year award, pupils take part in two poet-led workshops on the 2019 theme of ‘truth’ to develop their writing and poetry reading skills. Workshop leaders include Raymond Antrobus, Dzifa Benson and Young People’s Laureate for London Theresa Lola.

The day is followed by a performance from all the workshop leaders plus Daljit Nagra, which is open to additional school groups.

 

Performance

Forward Prizes for Poetry 2019 Ceremony

The Forward Prizes for Poetry 2019 will be awarded at the Southbank Centre on Sunday 20th October 2019.

See the nation’s most coveted poetry prizes awarded live on stage by the chair of the jury Shahidha Bari, and hear readings from the 15 poets shortlisted.

Performance, Prize

Sweetshop of Words

This sweetshop of conceptual confectionary offers each member of the public a small gold coin which they can spend on just one thing at the counter and it explores the notion of choice in our lives - “Choose well. Your choice is brief, and yet endless” as Goethe says.

NPD Ambassador Sally Crabtree will then invite visitors to design a sweet wrapper for the confectionary that will fill a PinARTa which is hanging on the stall. The PinARTa can be ‘bashed’ at a spoken word event called GOBstopper where all the ‘goodies’ are shared out.

Performance, Exhibition

Great Malvern Primary Poetry Festival

In its second year, the Great Malvern Primary Poetry Festival will be launched this year by none other than 2018 CLiPPA Award winner and National Poetry Day Ambassador, Karl Nova. This year, the school community will be celebrating rhythm and rhyme in a blockbuster week of all things poetry related!

Performance, Free

Caswell Chat

In celebration of National Poetry Day Caswell Clinic Patient Magazine, the Caswell Chat, has brought all the poems ever published in the magazine together into one place.

Between now and National Poetry Day the posters are placed around the clinic and now await responses that will be published in the magazine.

Some patients are too unwell to leave the clinic or interact with the outside world so outside encouragement is welcomed on many fronts.

Free

Bath Children’s Literature Festival Poetry Slam

Schools from across Bath and the surrounding area will be coming together on National Poetry Day to perform on the festival stage and to compete for the title of Slam Champion!

Performance

Poetry at George’s

Patients in hospital at St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust write poems.

Free

A day of poetry at the Place Theatre

The Place Theatre is giving over the whole of the 3rd of October to a mini-festival of poetry. Workshops in the morning, networking at lunch, readings in the afternoon and performances in the evening.

Performance, Open mic

Her 100 Cerdd

To celebrate National Poetry Day, Literature Wales has once again challenged four poets to compose 100 Welsh-language poems in 24 hours. Each poet will need to compose at least one poem every hour in order to complete the challenge in time. Past teams have reached the deadline with only seconds to spare. Will this year’s fabulous four follow suite and finish as the clock strikes twelve?

Free

Brave Poets National Poetry Day

We hold curated open mics - invitees are welcome to read a poem of their own.

Date: Thursday 3 October 2019
Location: Soho
Theme: Truth

Poets, writers, singers, rappers perform original work of their own, of any genre, in exchange for audience feedback. We include a live band in the second half. email:bravepoets@gmail.com or see facebook/bravepoets or instagram @bravepoets for more details.

Performance

Truth in Nature

Verses in the veg patch, and stanzas in the leaves!

Come along to community allotment PLOT 22 in Hove to discover some poems that explore Truth in nature.

This two hour workshop will facilitated by Story Chaplain, a social enterprise that encourages moments of connection through 'words for wellbeing'.

Reading, Free

Poetry Breakfast

Breakfast followed by workshop.

A.F.Harrold Creative Writing Club

Performance poet and all round wonderful author, A.F.Harrold, will be joining us for Creative Writing Club.

There's no need to book.
£5 each, age 6+
Saturday 5th October, 4:00pm-5:30pm

Performance

Poetry Slam

Join us on National Poetry Day for a poetry slam!
You can bring along your own verses to share, recite a well-loved poem or simply be part of the audience.
This is suitable for poetry lovers of all ages and abilities.
Book your free place to avoid disappointment.

Performance, Free

National Poetry Day

Come along to Waterstones Gateshead and share your poetry about Truth with us 3rd October from 5pm

Reading, Performance, Free