This November, the quaint village of McGregor will play host to a distinctive event celebrating the tenth anniversary of its annual poetry festival.
In a departure from its traditional full-programmed format, the 2023 edition of Poetry in McGregor will offer an intimate showcase featuring poetry readings, immersive experiences and the launch of its latest anthology.
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Set within the serene gardens of Temenos, this year’s celebration, scheduled for the weekend of 17 to 19 November, encourages participants to engage in contemplative walks and introspective reflections.
The programme promises a blend of open mic sessions, musical performances and the enchantment of a magical fable reading.
Weekend highlights:
Anthology 2023 launch:
The festivities kick off at 5pm on Friday, 17 November. This free event, open to the public, marks the unveiling of the festival’s 2023 anthology.
- Date: 17 November | 5pm
- Location: Caritas at Temenos | Corner of Voortrekker and Bree Street
- Book: 023 6251 871
Open-mic session:
Hosted by Harry Owen, the open mic session at 10:30am on Saturday offers a platform for budding and established poets. Attendance is free, and no booking is required.
- Date: 18 November | 10:30am
- Location: Caritas at Temenos | Corner of Voortrekker and Bree Street
A celebration of poetry and music:
At 5pm on Saturday, a special concert will be held at Wahnfried. This event will feature performances by acclaimed artists Lynnelle Kenned and Elna Van der Merwe.
Tickets are priced at R150, including a glass of wine, and can be reserved via [email protected].
- Date: 18 November | 5pm
- Location: Wahnfried | 27 Bree Street, McGregor
- Book: [email protected]
Poetry immersion:
On Sunday at 9am the Little Way Chapel at Temenos will host a poetry immersion event.
This session is open for donations, with bookings available through the Temenos Office.
- Date: 19 November | 9am
- Location: The Little Way Chapel, Temenos
- Book: 023 6251 871
Book launch:
The weekend concludes with a book launch at 10:30am on Sunday at Caritas, Temenos.
This free event will introduce ‘The Naming of He-Who-Has-No-Name,’ a fable supporting The Cactus Foundation Africa’s mission for children’s, animal and earth’s rights.
No booking is required for this event.
- Date: 19 November | 7pm
- Location: The Little Way Chapel, Temenos
Special offers for poets
Poets attending the weekend festivities will receive a 10% discount on all meals at Out of Africa or Tebaldi’s Restaurants, with vouchers available at the Temenos Reception Desk.
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Picture: Supplied
