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Woking Library, Friday 20th September 2024
The Surrey Poet Laureateship, a dynamic initiative that has been enriching lives across Surrey since its inception earlier this year, has expanded its reach with the launch of a brand-new Poetry Hub at Woking Library. Following the success of its hubs in Staines and Kingston, the Woking hub marks the latest addition in the Laureateship’s mission to bring the transformative power of poetry to the heart of Surrey’s communities.
Launched on Friday, 20th September, the Woking Poetry Hub offers a welcoming space for individuals from all walks of life to come together, explore their creativity, and share their passion for poetry. The hub is beginner-friendly and designed to encourage participants, whether they are seasoned poets or trying their hand at writing for the first time, to engage in guided poetry activities and collaborative exercises.
At the event, the Deputy Leader of Surrey County Council, Denise Turner-Stewart, who was the official guest, expressed her support for the initiative, saying:
“I was delighted to attend the launch of your latest poetry hub in Woking on Friday 20th September. I was really encouraged to hear of the growing appetite and enthusiasm for poetry as part of the rich cultural offer in Surrey, and it was great to see the creative session in action. I was impressed to learn about the origins of this initiative and witness the enjoyment of the participants. I wish the Laureateship every success and thank you for bringing poetry into the hearts of our communities in Surrey.”
Growing Enthusiasm for Poetry in Surrey
The Poetry Hubs have become a vital part of Surrey’s creative landscape, with similar hubs in Staines and Kingston providing spaces for people to connect, create, and explore the emotional and therapeutic benefits of poetry. The Woking hub aims to build on this success, offering residents the opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of poetry every Friday morning.
Adam Gary, founder of the Surrey Poet Laureateship and inaugural Laureate, spoke about the positive impact the hubs have had:
“We’ve seen the immense impact that our Poetry Hubs have had in Staines and Kingston – they’ve become not just a space for poetry, but a space for community. People return week after week, finding comfort and connection in the words they write and share. Poetry has this incredible ability to bring people together, and we are thrilled to continue expanding this initiative.”
One of the participants at the launch, Naino Masindet, shared her experience of the session:
“I really appreciated being given the time to clearly formulate my ideas and write something I was happy with. I also really enjoyed the poetry analysis too. It's a lovely creative space.”
A Hub for Creativity and Wellbeing
In addition to fostering creativity, the Surrey Poet Laureateship places a strong emphasis on the mental health benefits of poetry. Workshops offered by the Laureateship are designed not only to enhance literary skills but also to provide a safe, supportive environment where participants can explore their emotions and thoughts through writing.
The Woking Poetry Hub will run every Friday from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM at Woking Library. It is open to all, regardless of experience, and provides a welcoming, nurturing space for anyone with an interest in poetry.
Looking Ahead
The launch of the Woking hub is just one of several exciting initiatives from the Surrey Poet Laureateship. The organisation’s monthly open mic night, Laureate’s Lounge, held at Thames Side Brewery in Staines, has become a popular fixture on the community calendar. Additionally, the Laureateship’s upcoming school outreach programme will bring poetry workshops to students across Surrey, encouraging young minds to engage with the art form.
For more information about the Woking Poetry Hub and other upcoming events, visit the Surrey Poet Laureateship website at www.surreypoetlaureateship.org or follow them on social media @SurreyPoetLaureate.
Get Involved
The Surrey Poet Laureateship invites local residents and poetry enthusiasts to join their growing community. Whether you’re interested in attending a session, performing at an open mic night, or volunteering, there’s a place for you in Surrey’s poetry community.
To find out more about how to get involved, visit www.surreypoetlaureateship.org.
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