Content of this page:

United Kingdom

Charlie Dark . 'The UK is home to a thriving spoken word scene, which is strengthened by its cultural diversity. The different spoken word styles (including hip hop, performance poetry, traditional storytelling) successfully co-exist and fuse with one another to create a competitive, constantly innovative and exciting world.
 
In particular, the performance poetry and storytelling circuit in the UK goes from strength to strength and showcases diverse personalities and talent. Performers such as Benjamin Zephaniah,  John Hegley, Lemn Sissay, Patience Agbabi, Francesca Beard, Jan Blake and Roger Robinson are widely enjoyed by audiences across the country, in venues ranging from trendy bars and clubs to secondary schools and prisons. There are also countless open mic sessions around the country, which draw big crowds and give new faces the chance to try out their skills.
 
Power in the Voice. We know that the secret to maintaining a successful arts scene is to provide inspiration and opportunity to the upcoming generations. With Power in the Voice, we hope that established artists will share their influence with young performers and that the close work between Southern Africa and the UK will bring creative strength and vitality to both regions'. Lottie Oram, British Council Literature Department

 

 

COPYRIGHT INFORMATION: All rights reserved. No part of this website may be reproduced, stored in or introduced to a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form, or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise) without prior written permission of the British Council. Any person who does any unauthorised act in relation to this publication may be liable to criminal prosecution and civil claims for damages.