In 2008 Melbourne was crowned the world's second 'city of literature' by UNESCO (the first being Edinburgh in Scotland), a well-deserved title due partly to the city's thriving poetry scene. Now in its ninth year the
'Overload Poetry Festival' will showcase some of the unique poets that have helped put the city of Melbourne on the map.
Featuring readings and performances from over 80 poets both local and international, the range of literary creativity is enough to inspire you to pick up your own pen and craft a few lines. The festival will run from 10th to 19th September in venues all across the city, ending with the
Surprise Showcase where awards will be given to the best performers.
Many of the events are free, with most others costing under $10. For a full program visit the
website which includes all times and venues (including an unusual reading in the
Eltham Courthouse).
As part of the festival two master classes will be held at
The Wheeler Centre for those looking to brush up on their written and aural skills. Also, be sure to keep an eye out at Federation Square for the west-facing wall which will be turned into a moving billboard for poetry thanks to the digital scrolling text screens.
Submissions for the wall are open to the public, so it's a great way to share with the world that haiku or short poem you've been secretly writing.
