Poetry Africa Festival at UJ Arts Centre

Name: Poetry Africa Festival at UJ Arts Centre
Start: 2024-10-03
End: 2024-10-03
Location: UJ Arts Centre Theatre

Thursday Oct 3 19:00–20:00 … UJ Kingsway Campus, Auckland Park

Catch the Poetry Africa Festival at UJ Arts Centre. Photo: UJ Arts & Culture.

Experience the vibrant world of poetry with Poetry Africa Festival at UJ Arts Centre. Photo: Supplied.

Poetry Africa Festival poster. Photo: UJ Arts & Culture.

The 28th Poetry Africa Festival starts on Thu, Oct 3 with the Keorapetse Kgositsile Memorial Lecture, celebrating the legacy of one of Africa’s most influential poets. On Fri, Oct 4, the Slam Semi-finals will feature the top 10 Poetry Africa slammers competing for a spot in the final showdown. Sat, Oct 5 brings two events: The (R)evolution of Words, a dynamic poetry show exploring South African poetry, and Somehow We Survive, a performance with an international line-up of poets.

Experience the vibrant world of poetry with Poetry Africa Festival at UJ Arts Centre. Photo: UJ Arts Centre.

Thu, Oct 3 – Keorapetse Kgositsile Memorial Lecture

Celebrate the legacy of one of Africa’s most influential poets with reflections and discussions on Keorapetse Kgositsile's lasting influence. Keorapetse William “Bra Willie” Kgositsile, South Africa’s first Poet Laureate, significantly influenced poets worldwide by blending South African and African-American literary traditions and advocating for pan-African liberation. Presented by Dr Uhuru Phalafala and hosted by Siphindile Hlongwa, with responses from Afurakan, Makhosazana Xaba, Frank Meintjies, and Sarah Godsell. This lecture is a unique opportunity to delve into the profound impact of Kgositsile’s work on African literature and culture. Attendance is free but booking is essential, RSVP here.

Fri, Oct 4 – Slam Semi-finals

Witness the top 10 Poetry Africa slammers compete for a spot in the final showdown. The semi-finalists will showcase their most compelling performances, vying to be crowned Poetry Africa Slam Champion. This event is a thrilling display of talent and passion, highlighting the vibrant spoken word scene in South Africa. Tickets are available at R80 for students and R100 for general admission, buy yours here.

Don’t miss this celebration of poetry and culture. Photo: UJ Arts Centre.

Sat, Oct 5 – The (R)evolution of Words

A dynamic poetry show exploring the South African poetry canon and contemporary voices. Written by award-winning poet Lebo Mashile, directed by Jade Bowers, and performed by UJ Art Academy students. This performance bridges the gap between classic and modern poetry, offering a rich educational experience for students and poetry enthusiasts alike. Tickets are available at R80 for students and R100 for general admission, book yours here.

Sat, Oct 5 – Somehow We Survive

A poetry performance featuring an international line-up of poets, including Claudio Pozzani (Italy), Lefifi Tladi (South Africa/Sweden), Yamorai (South Africa), Miksi Brower (Belgium), Vuyokazi Ngemntu, and Linda Sibande (Zimbabwe). Hosted by Quaz Roodt, this event promises a diverse and powerful showcase of global poetic voices, making it a must-see for anyone passionate about poetry and cultural exchange. Tickets are available at R80 for students and R100 for general admission, book yours here.