WORD PLAY

Celebrate World Poetry Day with us in Sadler’s Yard.

Do you ever struggle to find the right words?

Well, look no further, because for one day only, they’re all gathering in Sadler’s Yard. Join us for playful poetry, wilful wordiness and a gentle reminder that language is something you can get creative with.

TALKAOKE

We hadn’t heard of TALKAOKE until recently either. But now we’re into it!

Talkaoke is a pop-up talk show where anyone can sit at a glowing round table and join the conversation. It sounds odd. It is a bit odd. It’s also brilliant. This is the Manchester debut of this cult format, so come and have your say, (or just listen in and enjoy the ride).

POETRY FOR PERFORMANCE WORKSHOP

10am–12pm

A free workshop led by Manchester Cathedral’s Writer in Residence, Tom Branfoot. Arrive with nothing but a notebook and leave two hours later with a jaw full of verses. You’ll explore rhythm, voice and confidence and maybe surprise yourself.

Speaking of which…

PERFORMANCE POETRY STAGE

An afternoon of live performance from some of Manchester’s best spoken word artists, alongside open mic slots for anyone brave enough to step forward. First-timers welcome. Seasoned pros welcome. Poems made up on the spot also welcome.

ALPHABET SOUP

We’re cooking up a large pot of minestrone with alphabet pasta. Eat your words quite literally. Free for all attendees, with donations encouraged for local children’s literacy charities. Come for the consonants, stay for the carbs.

FONT WORKSHOP

Back to basics. In this drop-in clay workshop, you’ll sculpt your own letterform and learn simple techniques for shaping type by hand. Every character made on the day will become part of a collaborative alphabet, which we’ll digitise and share once complete. A typeface built in public.

CUT-UP POETRY

You’re a poet and you didn’t know it.

Join Jot Bookshop to slice, shuffle and reassemble fragments of text into brand new poems. If it was good enough for Bowie it’s good enough for us.

JOT BOOKSHOP

Your local independent bookseller will be in Sadler’s Yard all afternoon with a carefully curated selection of contemporary fiction, poetry and small press gems. Browse, chat, and take something home.

Poetry for Performance Workshop: 10am–12pm

All other activities: 12–6pm

Free to attend. Family friendly.