Guildford Poets Shine at Surrey Poet Laureateship’s End-of-Year Showcase

Published on: 9 Dec, 2024
Updated on: 10 Dec, 2024

Sharron Green reads her poem

Among the highlights of the Surrey Poet Laureateship’s End-of-Year Showcase was the contribution of Guildford poet Sharron Green, who performed her poem featured in the recently published First Surrey Poetry Anthology.

Sharron’s work, which has already captivated readers of the anthology, resonated with the audience on the night (November 30) at the ACT Theatre, Kingston College.

Adam Gary, founder and inaugural Poet Laureate, said: “Her performance was a proud moment not just for her but for Guildford’s poetry community, as several other poets from the area are also featured in the anthology.”

The anthology itself marks a milestone for the Laureateship; it showcases voices from across the county, celebrating Surrey’s landscapes, history, and the diverse perspectives of its poets. The book is part of the laureateship’s mission to make poetry accessible and engaging for all.

Reflecting on the significance of Guildford’s representation at the showcase, Gary said: “It was a privilege to see Sharron perform her poem from the anthology, which represents such a rich tapestry of voices from Guildford and beyond. Her work, along with that of the other Guildford poets, highlights the incredible talent in the area and how poetry can bring communities together.”

Adan Gary founder and inaugural Poet Laureate

The evening featured a mix of performances, including contributors to the anthology, ambassadors from the laureateship’s poetry hubs, and poets from the Laureate’s Lounge Open Mic Night. Dignitaries such as Spelthorne Mayor Med Buck and Cllr Tim Hall (vice chairman of Surrey County Council) were also in attendance to celebrate the event.

The event, launched in May 2024, has rapidly become a hub for creative expression and community engagement across the county. With plans for a Surrey Poetry Library, more poetry hubs, youth programmes, and heritage projects in 2025, the organisation is set to expand its impact even further.

Guildford continues to play a key role in this growing movement. The recently launched Guildford Poetry Hub, meeting every Thursday morning at Guildford Library, offers a welcoming space for poets of all levels to connect, share, and grow their craft.

For more information about the anthology or upcoming events, visit www.surreypoetlaureateship.org.