Voices on Fire at this year's Poetry in McGregor

English poetry from the young awesome talents of Elisa Galgut and Vangile Gantsho to well-known poets James Matthews, Patricia Schonstein, Kobus Moolman, Khadija Tracey Heeger and Harry Owen.

In the Afrikaans section we have the heart-warming and inspiring Margot Luyt (“Vers en Klank” on RSG), Koos van der Merwe, Daniel Hugo, Diana Ferrus and Lara Kirsten. Last year’s winner of the Poetry Competition, Louise Westerhout will also be taking to the stage.

Exciting groups that are coming are UWC poets, Lingua Franca Spoken Word Movement and Mothertongue. There are also immensely entertaining poets including Margaret Clough and Stephanie Saunders who will have you rolling in the aisles as they look at the lighter side of life. For a complete list of all the participating poets visit Poetry in McGregor.

McGregor is the perfect venue for a celebration of poetry. All the venues are in gentle walking distance from one another and include the soulful gardens of Temenos, the homely backyard D’Amphitheatre, the unique Wahnfried theatre, artist Edna Fourie`s Gallery, Flora’s Eating House and Gallery, The Green Room and The Lion House. The local social spot ‘Carol’s Pub’ will be hosting Voices On Fire. While you relax and savour a local red, poets in attendance will ring a bell and read their poetry. A great way to end a stimulating and inspiring day.

As usual, a number of Open Mic sessions will take place during the “Poetry in McGregor” weekend. These sessions are hosted by Hugh Hodge and no tickets or bookings are required. Anyone wishing to read or recite their poetry is welcome – from the well-known to budding, new poets! On entering the venue, you will be issued with a numbered card and when your number is called, you will have a few minutes to read or recite one of your poems. Time permitting, you may get a second or even a third turn. There is no feed-back other than applause from the audience. Everyone is welcome to attend, to take part or just to listen, so please check the programme carefully for details.

Whether you write academic poetry, slam, rap or haiku about how much you love coffee - your words are welcome. Come to Poetry and McGregor and enjoy a wide range of poetry from the renowned voices of some of our top poets to up and coming young ‘Voices on Fire.’ Take time out to attend our Open Mic sessions. Laugh and cry and be taken by surprise. Be mesmerized and amazed. Delight in what it is to be human and celebrate your love for the written
word.

Tickets available from Computicket.