Powell River Public Library is hosting a spoken word Poetry Slam competition on Saturday, April 23, its first since prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, with the theme: The Language of Trees.
“It feels so good to be bringing back this event,” stated Mel Edgar, the library’s teen services coordinator, in a media release. “There is such a vibrant and energetic poetry community here who care deeply about this place. I know that they will have a lot to say.”
This year’s theme is deeply intertwined with the qathet region’s community history, according to Joëlle Sévigny, program and education manager at Powell River Historical Museum and Archives.
“Inhabited by Coast Salish peoples since time immemorial, the natural resources of this area, like cedar, sustained and provided much for humans to thrive; in the 19th century, it is also what attracted settlers,” stated Sévigny. “The forestry industry of qathet directly contributed to its development. With changing values towards this industry, sustainability and concern of old-growth trees is now a prominent issue globally. What do the trees have to say about this? Tell us at the poetry slam event.”
Performers must have at least three poems ready that are under three minutes each and will be docked points for presentations that go over the limit. Poems do not have to be memorized, but it is encouraged. Organizers are aiming for three rounds, up to a maximum of 10 to 12 poets.
Jehjeh Media’s Amira Abouelalla, who has performed spoken word at open mic nights in Toronto, where she is from, will host the event.
Abouelalla moved to Egypt with her family when she was 12, where she lived and went to school for five years, learning Arabic and reconnecting with her Egyptian culture; she moved to the qathet region last year. She is also Ojibway from Keeseekoowenin First Nation in Manitoba and has black ancestry from Nova Scotia.
According to the release, Abouelalla’s goal has always been to work in education to change, understand and prevent further injustices against Indigenous peoples in Canada, and poetry is always something that resonates with her.
“It’s how I see and move through the world,” she stated.
The poetry slam starts at 1 pm. Participants are welcome to compete, listen to poetry or sign up as judges. Register at the door or go to prpl.ca to preregister. For more information email edgar@prpl.ca.
“All ages are welcome, all skill levels are encouraged,” stated Edgar. “Come compete or come enjoy.”
One poet will be selected as the reigning word warrior and presented with a medallion. The top poets go home with prizes.
