Saturday 8 November
3pm – 5pm
Allama Iqbal Centre, 157 Cromwell Road, PE1 2EL
Free
Share your poetry, or the poetry of others, in a friendly, supportive community atmosphere. Join us for an afternoon of poetry from across the globe.
This event is part of our Allama Iqbal Weekend, a creative weekend in celebration of “the philosophical founder of Pakistan”, poet Allama Iqbal. Iqbal wrote and shared poetry in multiple languages, and wrote poems inspired by his life, travels, and studies around the globe. We want to celebrate Iqbal’s poetry and poems from all around the world.
You can share your own poems, or read your favourite poem from Iqbal or another poet from around the world. All languages welcome!
Sign up to our family-friendly open mic on the day, or guarantee your slot by emailing charley.genever@neneparktrust.org.uk
What to Expect
Like a mini craft fair or community fun day, expect a buzz of family-friendly things to have a watch, play, make and experience. As well as the open mic, there will be creative workshops happening 12pm – 4pm.
Headlining our World Poetry Open Mic is Zain Awan, who will be sharing new poems created while in residence at the Allama Iqbal Centre. Taking inspiration from Allama Iqbal, users of the community centre, and the landscapes of Peterborough, Zain’s poems will form part of a collection of new works to be put on permanent display at the centre.
Featuring a special performance from The Beeches Primary School students, who have been working on a new group piece after a workshop with The National Literacy Trust and poet Imran Hafeez.
Following on from this we will have an open mic poetry zone, which will be a chance for anyone to share their own rhymes or musings. All languages welcome! Or, if you’d prefer, you can share your favourite Iqbal verse, or another favourite. As long as it’s suitable for a family-friendly audience, anything goes!
This event is part of The Allama Iqbal Project.
Join us for the whole weekend by coming along to Chand Ali Khan Qawwal & Party on Sunday 9 November!
About Allama Iqbal
Allama Iqbal (1877 -1938) was a philosopher and poet, recognised as the national poet of Pakistan. His poetry explores themes of community, nature, social justice, khudi (self-realisation), imagination, and spirituality. In Pakistan, 9th November is celebrated as Allama Iqbal Day every year. Just like Shakespeare or Wordsworth, Iqbal is not only a household name, but an influential writer whose works are still relevant to all generations today.
Access Information
The Allama Iqbal Centre has step-free access and an accessible toilet.
Parking extremely limited – please walk or use public transport. The nearest pay & display car park is a 5-10 minute walk from the centre: Queensgate.
The nearest bus stop is on Craig Street.
Activity will take place inside: most activities will take place on tables and chairs. Limited chairs with arm rests available – please bring your own if you prefer.
The classroom will be dark and feature projections on the wall.
Refreshments provided.
Children must be accompanied by adults.
Expect some noise and commotion – we will have a set of ear defenders and focus toys available for those with sensory requirements, and please bring your own if you prefer.
