Poets Out Loud slam returns in June

FILIPINO-Australian poet Andrew Cox will headline the June edition of Poets Out Loud, held at M|Arts in Murwillumbah on June 16.

Event organiser Sarah Temporal said she was thrilled to welcome the Canberra-based poet to the Northern Rivers.

“Andrew is the first of three renowned Australian poets I have invited to visit us on tour this year,” Temporal said.

“We met when we were part of a poetry slam that pitted four poets against ChatGPT – thankfully, the humans won.”

The night will include a limited open mic and poetry slam for attendees to share original work.

The slam has a two-minute time limit and comes with the chance to win a $50 voucher from Pulp Fiction books.

“Like myself, Andrew believes poetry should be shared in spaces that welcome everyone,” Temporal said.

“I was fortunate enough to feature at Canberra Slam on my tour recently, and I’m excited to bring Andrew to the Northern Rivers in turn.

“I adore his warmth, passion and unfettered emotion, and I know Poets Out Loud audiences will too.”

Temporal said Poets Out Loud aimed to expand regional access to arts and culture by hosting the best spoken-word artists from Australia and beyond.

“It’s easier said than done, as touring to the regions is costly and risky, for both the artist and the host, and there are virtually no funding options available,” she said.

“I’ve decided it’s time to take a leap of faith and bring these artists to the Northern Rivers, as we have a strong supporter base and an excellent venue in the M|arts Cafe and Bar.”

Local feature poet Mekhala Kopsidas (aka Maeve), who won the 2024 Nimbin Poetry World Cup, will also perform. Doors open at 6 pm for a 7 pm start, and for information, visit poetsoutloud.org/event/poets-out-loud-marts-7