The Silverton Poetry Association will host the 11th annual Silverton Poetry Festival March 26-April 3, presenting poetry readings, performances and workshops over two weekends in settings around Silverton. Free presentations by published poets, an evening of poetry with jazz, open microphone readings, and poetry writing workshops encourage participation by poetry lovers of all ages.
The festival kicks off on Saturday, March 26, 11 a.m. with the Favorite Poem Project. Co-hosted with Silverton People for Peace at the Earth Café on Main and Water streets, the gathering is based on the national project initiated by thenpoet laureate Robert Pinsky in 1997. Participants are invited to share a favorite published poem and comment on the poem’s personal significance.
That afternoon from 1-4 p.m., poet and teacher Ingrid Wendt will lead a free Inter-generational Poetry Workshop at Silver Falls Library, 410 S. Water St. A hands-on workshop for children and accompanying adults, young poets over 12 may come on their own. Space is limited; call 503-873-4476 to reserve a place.
Featured poets Brian Doyle, Ralph Salisbury, and Ingrid Wendt will read new and published poems that evening at 7p.m. at Frank Lloyd Wright’s Gordon House, next door to The Oregon Garden. A reception follows. As with all festival readings, admission is free.
Poetry meets jazz on Sunday, March 27, 3 p.m. at the White Steeple Gallery, 314 Jersey St. Master of jazz poetry Dan Raphael will share the stage with sax master Rich Halley and percussionist Carson Halley.
All ages are invited to share original poems at an Open Microphone Reading on Wednesday, March 28, 7 p.m., at the Creekside Grill, 242 S. Water St. Food and beverages will be available from the bar before, after, and during the break.
Featured poets David Hedges, Lars Nordström, and Jan VanStavern will read poems on Friday, April 1, 7 p. m., in the Christian Science Society Church, 110 S. Third St. Poet Christopher Howell will lead a Poetry Writing Workshop on Saturday, April 2, 1-4 p.m. at Silver Falls Library, 410 S. Water St. Registration advised, $30 fee, go to: silvertonpoetry.org.
That evening at 7 p.m. Howell will be joined by poet Elizabeth Austen in “Talking Poetry,” a reading and moderated discussion of the practice of poetry. It will be held at the Gathering Spot, 106 N. First St. Refreshments will be available from the café.
The finale will be the Feast of Poets on Sunday, April 3, 2p.m., Silver Falls Vineyards, 4972 Cascade Hwy SE. It will be a bounty of fine food along with poets Ed Higgins, Carter McKenzie, John Morrison, Anita Sullivan and Ron Talney.
