Published on April 10, 2024
Amplify Poetry: Poetry Open Mic Night
In the cozy and warm comfort of Confections Cake Co., with coffee and cake in hand, St. Albert’s young poets will take to the microphone at Amplify’s second Amplify Poetry: Poetry Open Mic Night.
“The atmosphere last year was incredible,” says Kathleen Bell, community cultural coordinator for the City of St. Albert and Amplify’s coordinator. “Every poet that went to the mic was greeted with a roar of supportive applause. It’s not easy to stand up in front of a crowd and share your words, but if there are young writers out there looking to share their work, this is a great place to do just that.”
Amplify, the City’s youth arts development program, is currently looking for poets in between Grade 7 to age 21 to participate in Amplify Poetry. In this open mic-style event, interested youth can sign up online in advance to secure their spot, or join night-of (based on availability) if they need to build up some courage.
“Often artists will come down and check out the atmosphere of an open mic before they sign up, just to check out the general vibe,” says Bell. “But I can guarantee all artists —whether it’s their first open mic or 30th— will feel welcome at Amplify Poetry. The organizing committee is set on creating an environment where art and artists can thrive.”
The evening will be capped off with a performance by featured poet, Medgine Mathurin. Haitian-born spoken word artist and advocate, Maturin is a person for whom the love of language and the alchemy of words is second nature. Her multi-lingual upbringing (French, Creole, English) not only prompted her to begin experimenting with the potential and magic of language but naturally compelled her into a deep love of poetry.
“Having a poet like Mathurin close the evening is really special,” explains Bell. “She is so supportive of young poets and the poetry community. And having someone like Mathurin perform demonstrates for these young artists new, exciting ways of playing with language. It’s truly inspiring.”
Date: Thursday, May 2, 2024
Time: 7 to 9 p.m.
Location: Confections Cake Co. (140 - 15 Perron Street)
If you are between grade 7 to age 21, sign up to share your poetry online here. All ages are welcome to enjoy the performances.
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Last edited: April 9, 2024