About this event
Come and join us at Spotland Library for a very special afternoon of poetry and spoken word.
- Who is this event suitable for? For adults.
- Booking required: please book your place by Friday, 6 February 2026. Book your place online through Eventbrite
- Directions: Get directions to this event from Google Maps
- Contact: library.service@rochdale.gov.uk
- Event organiser: Rochdale Borough Council
We’ll be putting the mic firmly in the hands of powerful Northern voices, and exploring what identity means to us in 2026.
Hosted by Rochdale’s Poet Laureate Sammy Weaver, this event is part of a borough-wide series celebrating bold new poetry and creative voices. Expect striking words, bold and creative Northern perspectives, and performances that will stay with you long after the final line.
The theme of identity invites a range of stories and styles, from playful to profound, from personal to political.
Performers
Confirmed performers include:
- Hafsah Aneela Bashir, award-winning poet, playwright, and performer
- Mike Garry, poet and poet-librarian
- Alende Amisi, young poet in residence
- Local poet Yasmin Hussain
- Local poet Sid Calderbank
Poetry exhibition
And don’t forget to dive into the poetry exhibition featuring writers from across the borough. You can even and meet some of the poets, who will have books available for sale.
This event is part of a partnership between Rochdale Borough Libraries, Rochdale Borough Council, and Rochdale Development Agency, funded by Arts Council England and Flexible Funds, and forms part of Greater Manchester’s Town of Culture programme for 2025/26, celebrating Rochdale’s role as the region’s cultural heartbeat.
Together, we’re creating space for Northern voices to inspire and connect our community, so why not get yourself a ticket, come along and catch the poetry bug.
Disclaimer
Events and activities are not organised by Rochdale Borough Council unless stated otherwise. Neither is Rochdale Borough Council responsible for the accuracy of the information provided. If you are under 18, ask your parent/guardian before taking part in any event or activity.