Lively poetry performances, Say Owt Slam are back with a punch in 2018. A number of events lead up to a debut appearance from Sara Hirsch on 3 February at The Basement.
Say Owt is committed to building a local scene of powerhouse poets, as well as bringing some of the best acts from across the country to prove performance poetry is a genre you need to experience live. Say Owt was recently name-checked in The Guardian as part of York’s cultural landscape.
Sara Hirsch won the 2013 UK Slam Championship, and was ranked 3rd in the World Slam Championship 2014. From Glastonbury to the Edinburgh Fringe, Sara has toured consistently throughout the UK. This will be her first ever gig within the walls of York. Her work features sharp story-telling and beautifully crafted lyrical poetry. Sara is an poet not to be missed, with a spicy political edge and a passionate personality.
In addition to this incredible poet giving her best performance, we have the traditional Say Owt Slam, where poets vie for a cash prize. They have 3 minutes each to wow the audience and be crowned Say Owt Champion! It’s fast and frantic and a cracking night out.
Before the special Say Owt Slam there will be two events. On 21 January at 12.30-3.30 at York Explore Library Say Owt have a Scratch Club for people to bring new poems to share for constructive feedback in a friendly environment. This is totally free and everyone is welcome, regardless of experience and will feature Keiran King and Ella Gainsborough. They two run Evidently, Salford’s best poetry night and one of the best in the UK. They will also be at Dusk bar (North Street, 8 New St, York YO1 8RA on 25 January running a free open mic.
Sara Hirsch will also be running a writing workshop 4th February for anyone of any experience, 1-2.30pm at York Library for a mere £5.
For more info on Say Owt’s upcoming programme of workshops, open mics, slams and full-length shows visit their brand new website: www.sayowt.co.uk.
Say Owt is supported by Arts Council England.