Word Central

Word Central Open Mic Poetry and Spoken Word.

Presented by Flapjack Press and Manchester Libraries. Hosted by Tony Curry with special guest Oliver James Lomax.

Tuesday 29th October, 6.00pm – 7.45pm. Doors open 5.40pm and free entry.

October’s special guest Oliver James Lomax is a poet, educator and trustee of Salford’s Working-Class Movement Library, whose poems are now taught in schools. He has published 5 collections including The Dandelion Clock and Burial of the Cameo (‘Dammed fine poems, full of emotional resonance and vivid imagery.’ Ian Rankin). Oliver has written poetry for film and television, and in 2019 released his first spoken word single, described by Tom Robinson (BBC 6 Music) as ‘An unholy hybrid of John Cooper Clarke and Mark E Smith.’ In 2023 he released his debut album, Working-Class Love Poem, which he is currently touring across the UK.

‘Poems that dance with originality and are tenderly unafraid of love and belonging.’ Mark Thomas

‘Beautifully written poems from a unique voice of integrity and spirit.’ Maxine Peake

Event host Tony Curry is a poet, playwright, and workshop facilitator who runs literature-in-the-community projects with a specific leaning towards mental health and wellbeing. His work has been exhibited at Manchester’s museum and art galleries, and his play, The Teddy Bear, was staged at Contact Theatre. Tony’s solo spoken word shows include Brit Boy, Complicit Relations, Moving and The Odyssey, performed at Manchester’s Royal Exchange Theatre. In 2024 he will be touring his new show, Tall Tales for All Men, adapted from his collection Tall Tales for Tall Men Who Fall Well Short [Flapjack Press, 2012].

‘Tony’s words make great music for the mind. Modern, understandable, smart, real.’ Neil Bell

‘This is our poetry, these are our poems. They smell of home and friendship.’ Tony Walsh

Book your open mic slot from noon on Tuesday 15th October via mail@flapjackpress.co.uk.

N.B. Open mic slots are 3 minutes per performer – it is essential that you stay within this timeframe.

Performance slots are allocated on a ‘first come first served’ basis from the stated booking time. If they are already filled you will be offered a place on the reserve list.