In Gratitude - for MK International Festival

Here is just my impression of these ten amazing days:

I’ve embraced my inner arsonist and set the park ablaze.

Got muddied and ash-blackened

And I’ve seen the World Tipped,
Been wowed by acrobats and balancing acts,
Not a single one slipped.
I’ve imbibed in an Arabian tent,
Attempted a little Franglais,
Whilst ackee & saltfish, and the best damn burritos
Have spirited my soul away.

I’ve been catered for and cared for with generosity and flair.

And seen a happy public dig deep to donate
Whatever they could spare.
I’ve seen our concrete city
Illuminated by collective joy and surprise.
I’ve been eaten alive by mosquitos
And witnessed some stunning evening skies.

I’ve whooped and whistled in a hall of mirrors

Blessed by the weather, (except for a showery final day)
Experienced a steampunk junkyard orchestra,
And played some giant sculpture games.
Rocked out to some furious Bombay fusion beats
That shook us all out of our seats
Then some wild pyrotechnic dancers
Went stomping through our streets.

It’s been Ten Amazing Days for sure.

And I hope that all the artists, cast, crew, caterers, cleaners, technicians, security and everyone else involved in it,
I hope that you, like myself,
Have loved every minute.

Summer arrives... not a moment too soon!

I know I’ve been a long time away, but have definitely been busy on a few different fronts. Most important news is that I’ll be working as a volunteer at the Milton Keynes International Festival for a few events. Most notably, Compagnie Carabosse’s Fire Gardens from Friday 20^th, and “As the World Tipped” outdoor theatre show on Wednesday and Thursday.

I’ve still a few openings for poets if anyone wants to perform at Stony Paint Jam on 18^th & 19^th August, so please feel free to get in touch. There is also going to be a fundraising event at the Slug & Lettuce (Theatre District, CMK) on Saturday 28^th July too,  where there will be a lot of late-night music and painting.

Poetry-wise, the next event is Scribal Gathering at the World Picnic on Campbell park on Sunday afternoon, and as well as Paint Jam, there are going to be some events happening in Stony Library that I’m hoping to take part in and contribute towards. Look out for updates for details, and if you’re a poet, please get in touch to take part in some of the upcoming opportunities.

latest news

Off to Scribal Gathering at the Crown in Stony tonight. Hopefully I'll be able to grab an open mic spot there, and I must remember to talk about August's Stony Paint Jam, let people know it's happening and scope for some poetic talent for the Acoustic Stage!

I'll also be plugging this, and whatever else crops up on BBC 3 Counties Radio tomorrow morning. Mark Niel and I will be on air at about 8,20 for 10 mins or so.