Library announces speakers at free annual festival throughout April
In April, during National Poetry Month, Burlington Public Library pays tribute to poets, singers, songwriters, and musicians during our fourth annual Burlington Lyrics & Poetry Festival.
Whether you’re a poetry lover or simply curious about the power and charm of words, this festival has something for you. This year’s events are as educational as they are entertaining, with writers offering intimate workshops and presentations on their creative processes.
“We’re excited to showcase a lineup of remarkably talented artists who each bring a distinct voice and creative energy to this year’s festival,” says Lita Barrie, CEO of Burlington Public Library. “This event celebrates the power of words — through poetry, spoken word, or lyrical storytelling — and we hope everyone is inspired in some way that lasts long after the festival ends.”
All events are free to attend, whether or not you are a library member. Registration opens at noon on Wednesday, March 19. So, bring your curiosity, creativity, and imagination — and come along on this month-long exploration of lyrics and poetry.
Festival highlights
This year’s lineup features an exciting array of presenters, workshops, and activities for all ages, including a special presentation by internationally renowned author, and playwright Emma Donoghue. She’ll discuss poetry, musicals, and her latest novel with culture writer Sarah Laing. Donoghue’s breakout novel, Room, has sold nearly three million copies worldwide and inspired both a critically acclaimed film and a stage adaptation.
The Festival offers a stimulating evening with award-winning spoken word performer and poet Eddie Lartey, whose powerful performances have mesmerized audiences around the world. He’ll discuss his creative processes and share selections from his recently published collection of poems, Barcode, winner of the 2024 Hamilton Literary Awards – Poetry.
There’s also plenty of opportunity for everyone to create poetry during the Festival, too. For those looking to tap into their own creative expression, Lisa Shen offers a practical workshop on how to produce a published collection of poems. Shen, a spoken word artist and the Youth Poet Laureate of the City of Mississauga, recently published her debut collection, A Story Ending in Redwoods. The Festival is also thrilled to welcome back Lynda Monk, to help you explore poetry as a tool for reflection, mindfulness, and personal growth during her virtual workshop.
This year we introduce two friendly, guided writing sessions designed to spark your creativity and boost your poetic confidence. No experience needed — just bring your love of words and curiosity.
Southern Ontario Lyric Opera Artistic Director Sabatino Vacca, a perennially popular presenter at Burlington Public Library, explores the importance of lyrics, or the libretto, in operatic storytelling.
And families, get ready for a magical springtime treat! Children’s performer Pete Moss will have everyone singing and dancing with a lively musical celebration of the season. Plus, our library storytellers are bringing extra fun to storytime with playful rhymes and cheerful songs—perfect for little ones to enjoy!
Create a poem, present a poem
Poetry is everywhere all month at BPL! Whether you’re a seasoned poet or just love playing with words, unleash your inner poet at our branches and create a super-sized poem on our windows. We supply the words—you craft the poetic masterpiece!
If you’re already a creator (or enthusiast) of lyrics and poetry and want to share your art with an appreciative audience, mark your calendar for Wednesday evening, April 30, when it’s your turn in the spotlight at the festival’s finale, Lyrics & Poetry Open Mic.
