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The inaugural Kingston Poetry Week got its start on Sunday under the theme A Celebration of Caribbean Voices and Verse and is set to end on Saturday.
The observance is put on by JAIKU, in partnership with CARICON, to showcase “the diversity, creativity, and resilience of the region’s literary community”.
“In an exciting fusion of tradition and modern expression, Kingston Poetry Week will bring together poets, storytellers, and creatives from across the globe, all in honour of World Poetry Day on March 21,” Kacy Garvey, founder and managing director of JAIKU, told The Gleaner.
“With a series of dynamic events, workshops, and performances, this inaugural celebration promises to be a feast for the senses, one that illuminates the beauty of Caribbean culture through the power of poetry and storytelling.”
The open mic goes live on Wednesday at 7 p.m. with Pensoul, hosted by Rica G., at 74 Lady Musgrave Road, Kingston 10, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. On the same night at 8, Poetry Business Meet-up takes place on Zoom, featuring poetry business coach Christoph Jenkins.
Poetry, art, and music will collide inside Olympia Gallery at 202 Old Hope Road as artist Judith Salmon opens her exhibition, Home to Self: Explorations & Introspections in Mixed Media at 6 p.m. Musician Royan Willis and poet Kacy Garvey perform live. Dr Honor Ford-Smith is the guest speaker.
On World Poetry Day, Friday, March 21, The CARICON Poetry Slam, taking place for the first time ever in the Caribbean, unfolds at the Edna Manley College for the Visual and Performing Arts (EMCVPA) in association with JAIKU and Ntukuma at 1 Arthur Wint Drive, at 6 p.m. Typically hosted in Los Angeles, California, it will feature competitions between local and international poets.
Ockouri Barnes, Dujan ‘The Prophett’ Crossfield, Fabian M. Thomas, Javoneil Trowers, Kerece Williams, Randel Williams, and Britton Wright will be slamming under the patronage of Dorrett Campbell, interim principal, EMCVPA. Rica G. and Ras Takura will make guest appearances while the proceedings will be compèred by Dr Amina Blackwood Meeks.
At the Talk di Tings – Poetry & Storytelling Show on Saturday, March 22, much will be said at Jamnesia at Bull Bay, featuring award-winning storytellers from What’s Your Story, Jamaica?, as well as professional poets from JAIKU’s network.
Wright, Chantelle Laws, Inkosi, Simone ‘Fruittree’ Dewar, Joel ‘Jawara’ Ellis, Kwame McPherson, Garvey, Frederick Roberts, Crossfield, Suzette Shaw, Maria Barrett, and Kenneth Grant are the main mouthpieces for the evening.
Garvey shared that Kingston Poetry Week is for more than lovers of poetry.
“Kingston Poetry Week isn’t just for poetry enthusiasts. It’s for everyone who wants to be a part of the vibrant cultural conversation happening across Jamaica and the Caribbean,” she said.
What makes it different from other poetry events?
“While many poetry festivals focus solely on poetry readings or performances, Kingston Poetry Week distinguishes itself through its unique blend of tradition, modern expression, and immersive cultural experiences,” Garvey shared.
“Kingston Poetry Week stands out by celebrating Caribbean poetry and culture, fostering collaboration among creatives from around the world, offering immersive cultural experiences, and providing educational opportunities for emerging artists.”
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