At a previous poetry evening in Kilbixy, (from left) Avril Walsh providing musical entertainment; and Watson Mills and Oliver Higgins reading.

Preview: Kilbixy Poetry evening

The Kilbixy Poetry Evening returns on Friday August 30 for its sixth year. Westmeath Rural Arts continues in its mission to promote the arts in rural communities and welcomes again an array of poets and poetry-lovers to the atmospheric setting that is Kilbixy Hall, adjoining the historic Kilbixy church.

A spokesperson for the organisers said: "We all need to nurture the aesthetic side of our being and, in everyone’s soul – psyche, call it what you will – there is a tiny corner which responds to poetry.

"The words the poet has crafted evoke thoughts and feelings that often resonate with our own musings and experiences. Poems awaken a variety of emotions within us; sad poems stir our sympathies, joyful ones lift our spirits, and funny verses propel us into spontaneous laughter."

The format of the Kilbixy event diverges slightly from the usual poetry reading, where only poet recite their own creations; here, along with the experienced and the amateur poet, any member of the audience can recite a poem. It may be one that they have composed themselves or a favourite poem, so bring along those long-remembered verses from your schooldays or those beloved lyrics that have lingered in your mind over the years.

Alternatively, just come along, sit back and listen, and be entertained by poets, well-known and amateur.

In previous years, visitors have been regaled by Pat Carton, Marty Mulligan, Brian McLoughlin and Michael McDonald, whom we hope to welcome again, as well a host of many other excellent and highly entertaining poets and performers.

The poetic contributions are always diverse and encompass the full spectrum of emotions: happy and sad, funny and serious, sombre and gay, many decidedly quirky.

This promises to be a lively evening, a delightful event in historic surroundings, a real example of art in the community.

Facilitated by Westmeath Rural Arts, admission is free and any donations on the night will go to North Westmeath Hospice, an organisation well deserving and needing our support.

For further details, contact Betty 087 9480940 or Eleanor 087 7992682.