Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Achill Open Mic Poetry & Music Night & All Ireland Poetry Day Pints & Haikus Session

I am very pleased that over the past few months here on Achill Island, myself and my wife, Eileen, have managed to establish 'Open Mic Poetry & Music Nights'.
These evening provide the opportunity for emerging/established poets; singer songwriters/musicians; sean nos singers/dancers; seanchai (storytellers); and actors/playwrights to perform to an appreciative audience.
They will be held monthly throughout the year on Saturday evenings, and advertised in the 'Local Notes, Achill File' section of 'The Mayo News' weekly newspaper.
They have proved very popular and both participants and audience are growing steadily in numbers.
The next event is at Ted Lavelle's, Cashel, Achill, Saturday, 26th September. All performers need to register between 8.30 and 9pm. The performances are then from 9 - 10.30pm.
All are welcome and admission is free.
Nobody is under any pressure to perform. If you prefer to sit back, watch and listen, that is entirely your choice. At these events the audience is just as important as the performers.

All Ireland National Poetry Day is fast approaching (Thursday, 1st October)and, feeling that I should give something back to poetry for all it has given to me in life, have decided to hold a 'Pints and Haikus' lunchtime session on the day between 12 midday and 2pm, (again at Ted Lavelle's pub, Cashel, Achill). All welcome, free admission, but you will need to buy a drink and perhaps lunch too.
We shall be composing fun haikus on beermats together. Emphasis is on informality and fun - no experience neccessary - examples provided for inspiration. We shall be 'working' in the bar so the atmosphere should be great.

These events are about 'Art for All' - as well as doing our bit to assist emerging artists in the Achill area - they are about Poetry being accessible,inclusive,fun, and worthwhile.

Hoping to see you there.

Have a good week!