On the 15th of March, there is a poetry night at Six Highland Road cafe/bar and I spoke to Caroline Brennan about this event and what it means to have a platform like this in Portsmouth.
Caroline wrote some words about this and this is what she said….
Pompey Poetry Party is an immersive spoken word experience that showcases the raw talent of Portsmouth’s vibrant poetry scene.
Through powerful and thought-provoking performances, a colourful line-up of artists set out to inspire and engage at monthly meetings which take place at Six Highland Road, Southsea. From personal anecdotes to social justice issues, Pompey Poetry opens the stage to unique stories and perspectives through the art of the spoken word.
ABOUT POMPEY POETRY PARTY
Pompey Poetry Party was founded by local writers Cecily Holland and Caroline Brennan who wanted to create a platform which amplified a diverse range of voices. Combining a mix of featured artists and open mic, Pompey Poetry welcomes all levels of poets, enabling both seasoned professionals and complete beginners the chance to share their work in a supportive and lively social environment.
Pompey Poetry is a social and community-based project with a mission to forge new connections and offer encouragement to other writers. More than that, both Cec and Caz hope this creative space will carry a real power to uplift and transform.
THE BENEFITS OF POETRY
Cecily is well-known for championing undocumented LGBTQ+ History, playing a pivotal role at the grassroots of the gay rights movement. As a former presenter for Diversity Radio in Lancaster, she produced and presented her own poetry show exploring issues such as women’s rights, FGM, sexual assault and racism. Cecily is a strong advocate for mental health awareness and has hosted many ‘Open Mic’ events allowing performers to use poetry as a vehicle to unpack emotions and improve well-being.
This can be transformative. Poetry is often a mindful and meditative experience, lending language to the topic of mental health and providing a gateway to heal from suffering. At Pompey Poetry, performers are provided with a safe environment in which to say what otherwise may be left unsaid. This sometimes involves broaching difficult topics such as mental illness, trauma and violence.
MAKING POETRY ACCESSIBLE FOR ALL AGES
One of the energies behind the project is the drive to make poetry accessible to all ages and abilities. Although Portsmouth boasts a thriving writing community, both writers were saddened to discover there were limited opportunities for children and seniors to participate and perform. Pompey Poetry runs a bi-monthly multi-generational event at The Havelock Centre which allows for all ages to ‘have a go’ and learn different skills from each other.
Caroline has campaigned widely for the rights of children, including those from a disadvantaged background. She hopes through the medium of poetry children will have more of a voice in local and global matters which affect them.
UNLEASHING TALENT
Although for some, the idea of performing in front of a room full of strangers sounds daunting, it’s a great way to sharpen your skills. Not only does it provide an avenue for feedback but builds community and a regular audience base. Caroline, who was part of the Literacy Live team at Victorious Festival, believes poetry events like these are key to discovering exciting new talent. Having previously worked with authors, musicians, DJs and film producers, Caroline says,” some of the most profound and moving performances take place at Open Mic. Small, intimate venues where the words are raw and the feelings are powerful. You never know who could be in the audience. One night can change your whole career.”
DETAILS
Pompey Poetry Party hosts free monthly Spoken Word events at Six Highland Road
7.30pm-10pm. Featured Poets. Open Mic. Creative Discussion.
All Ages Poetry takes place bi-monthly at the Havelock Centre.
3pm-6pm Poets. Musicians. Bands. Magic. Storytelling. Open Mic.
