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Library News

Burlington Lyrics & Poetry Festival Lineup Announced

April is National Poetry Month and Burlington Public Library (BPL) is celebrating with its second annual Burlington Lyrics & Poetry Festival

Festival Highlights 

This year’s lineup offers an exciting schedule of performances, workshops, and activities for all ages, including a feature presentation by hip-hop singer-songwriter LTtheMonk. Represented by Sonic Unyon and known for his lyrical wordplay, LT will showcase his poetic talent on BPL’s stage before answering audience questions.

His is one of seven live performances in the festival lineup, which also includes a showcase by award-winning slam poet Lisa Shen, samples of Verdi’s La Traviata with Southern Ontario Lyric Opera, and a family-friendly presentation of theatrical prose by The Travelling Stage.

Fans of the spoken word will also get their turn in the spotlight during the festival’s capstone afternoon, which includes an open mic event, along with poignant readings by poetry powerhouses Desiree McKenzie and Catherine Graham.

Learn About the Power of Words

The festival is as educational as it is entertaining, with several poets and songwriters offering intimate workshops and presentations on their writing processes.

"We are excited to have a lineup of artists from diverse backgrounds presenting a diverse selection of spoken word and music," says Lita Barrie, CEO of Burlington Public Library. "The goal of the festival is to connect people with the power of words, and we hope everyone will find something that ignites their passion for poetry."

All events are free to attend, whether or not you are a library member. Registration opens at noon on March 15th. So, bring your curiosity, creativity, and imagination—and come along on this month-long exploration of lyrics and poetry.

View the full lineup at bpl.on.ca/burllpfest