Have you ever dreamed of performing spoken word at an open mic event?

Throughout this two-part workshop, led by acclaimed writer and performer Jan Cornall, you’ll not only learn to write compelling performance poetry but also step onto the stage to bring your words to life! Drawing inspiration from a rich tradition of international and local poets, you’ll join a safe, supportive space where you can explore tools and prompts to create your own dynamic works.

Whether your focus is personal or political, or you’re eager to play with metaphor, rhythm, repetition, or sound, these workshops encourage experimentation with various forms. Testimonial, confessional, freestyle, humour, nonsense, rap, sung poetry, even traditional sonnets—everything has a place here.

No experience necessary—just a love of words and a desire to give voice to what’s inside.

A TWO-PART WORKSHOP
Session 1: Saturday 22 Feb 1pm - 4pm
Spend some time learning and putting your poetry together

Session 2: Sunday 23 Feb 2pm - 4pm
Friends and family will be invited to watch you perform on the PAC stage at the end of the session
------
Price inclusive of both sessions
Open to ages 16+
------
About the facilitator:
Jan Cornall is an acclaimed writer and performer with a career spanning over four decades. Beginning at Melbourne’s iconic Pram Factory with her celebrated musical Failing In Love Again in 1979, Jan has since received numerous grants and fellowships. She has authored plays, musicals, screenplays, a novel, travel memoir, story and poetry collections, and three song albums.

Based in Newtown, Sydney, Jan holds an MA in Cultural and Creative Practice and has taught writing at institutions like UTS and WSU, as well as leading international writing retreats. She has performed spoken word at festivals across the Asia Pacific and is a mainstay in Newtown's vibrant poetry scene.