Ipswich poets create new free stage for undiscovered talent

Why it matters: The free event aims to give Ipswich's poets a stepping stone between open mic nights and full performances, helping local talent develop their craft and reach bigger audiences.

The details: The launch night takes place at Bin93 Wine Bar on Monday, 7 September, with doors at 19:00 and performances running from 19:30 to 21:30.

Organisers David Mustill and Michael Bamber will take turns performing and hosting each event, with five poets at various stages of their careers each delivering a set to showcase a range of styles.

The first line-up features Nancy T, a "funny confessional poet" from Chelmsford; Sany, a "thoughtful Lebanese/English poet"; Ipswich-based Brendan Wilson, who "writes tenderly of family history, memory and love"; David Mustill; and Michael Bamber. Entry is free, though contributions are welcomed to cover costs.

What they're saying: Michael Bamber said the event grew out of a successful book launch at Bin93 for "Ten Poets Volume Three", the Earth Island Books anthology that brought him and Mustill together.

"We decided that we enjoyed it so much that we would put together a similar event to give new poets a chance to deliver a twenty-minute set to a warm audience," he said. "More experienced poets would complete the bill. There would be a diverse mix of poets – something for all listeners."

Amy Wragg, of SoapBox Spoken Word CIC, which is supporting the event with printing, press and publicity, said Ipswich has a "burgeoning" poetry scene.

"This has unearthed some amazing talent that may have never been found, but they have often languished at the open mic stage," she said. "The new Five Poets event from David and Michael creates the next step for new talent, an event where they can develop their skills, craft longer sets, and build their audience. SoapBox Spoken Word CIC is delighted to support this brilliant new event, which will be an asset for our town."

What's next: A second Five Poets night is planned for Monday, 16 November, and will feature Wragg herself. Copies of Ten Poets Volume Three will also be available to buy on the night.

The bottom line: Five Poets gives Ipswich's growing spoken word scene a new home, offering emerging performers room to grow beyond the open mic stage – for free.

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