Poetry and music will blend at The Novium
The Novium Museum is playing host to A Celebration of Poetry on National Poetry Day on Thursday, October 7 starting at 7.30pm.
This year’s theme is
Choice and a cast of poets and musicians will gather, overlooking the Roman ruins, to be inspired by words and music and raise a glass of prosecco to toast creativity and imagination.
Heading the bill is Bloodaxe poet, playwright and creative writing tutor Stephanie Norgate plus Festival of Chichester co-ordinator
Barry Smith and classical guitarist Linda Kelsallbarnett.
The event is organised by Chichester Poetry and the South Downs Poetry Festival.
There will also be an open mic for poets to share their own poems and a complimentary glass of wine to toast National Poetry Day.
Barry Smith said: “We’re really looking forward to getting together for this very special live event as we had to miss out last year because of the pandemic. The Novium is a big airy space to gather and we will of course follow sensible anti-covid precautions.
“We usually hold this Celebration of Poetry event in Chichester library but we’ve had to move over the road this year because of building works. We hope our regular supporters and all those who enjoy the magic of words and music will come along and join us.”
The event marks the national launches of new books of poetry by Stephanie Norgate and by Barry Smith.
Stephanie’s new book is
The Conversation, Barry’s collection is Performance Rites.
Barry added: “‘I’m absolutely delighted to be able to share this launch with my fellow South Downs poet Stephanie Norgate.
Until recently, she was the MA in creative writing course leader at Chichester University where she inspired a generation of writers. She has published two highly praised previous collections, Hidden River and The Blue Den, as well writing drama for broadcast on BBC R4.
“My own collection was inspired by the notion of life as performance and in it I draw upon my experience of directing plays, including productions for Edinburgh, Chichester Festival Youth Theatre and the Cathedral. I also describe encounters, some real and some imaginary, with famous people like Poet Laureate Ted Hughes.
“Stephanie and I hope that writers and poetry lovers will join us for this unique celebration – and if they wish, also share their own poems. Those who prefer to sit back and listen are equally welcome!’
The music is provided by Chichester Festival regular performer, Linda Kelsallbarnett, who brings her extensive experience of entertaining audiences to the event.
“There’s something very moving about the blending of the sound of the guitar with imaginative words,” Barry said.
A Celebration of Poetry on National Day, The Novium, 7.30pm, Thurs, October 7. Tickets £7.50 from The Novium, 01243 816525, www. thenovium.org/boxoffice