Aspiring spoken word poets, orators, and lovers of dramatic performance will have the chance to hone their craft at an exciting two-part workshop, Poetry Meets Performance, later this month.
Led by two of the Caribbean’s most celebrated dramatic performers, elisha efua bartels and Wendell Manwarren, the workshop will take place on Friday 22 and Friday 29 November, 2024, from 5 to 7 pm. Hosted in-person at The Writers Centre, registration is set at just TT$400.
Presented by the Bocas Academy, this workshop is a must-attend for anyone eager to elevate their performance skills and take their spoken word delivery to the next level.
Whether you are drawn to spoken word poetry, commanding oratory, or gripping monologues, Poetry Meets Performance will guide participants through essential techniques to boost confidence, captivate audiences, and enhance stage presence.
The workshop concludes the first term of the Bocas Academy, which has already seen overwhelming interest and oversubscription. The debut term featured a diverse lineup of workshops and masterclasses, including memoir writing with Ira Mathur and poetry writing with Shivanee Ramlochan and Olive Senior, highlighting the Academy’s growing influence within the literary community.
Both bartels and Manwarren bring a wealth of experience to the sessions. elisha efua bartels is a multifaceted artist — writer, performer, teacher, director, and stage manager — who has served as a head judge for the First Citizens National Poetry Slam and is a founding member of Metamorphosis Dance Company. With an extensive background in the performing arts, bartels has worked in Washington, DC, stage-managing for renowned companies and producing for The Kojo Nnamdi Show. Since returning to Trinidad and Tobago, she has uplifted the local arts scene through her work with 3canal, Lilliput Theatre, and other organizations.
Wendell Manwarren is a celebrated singer, writer, producer, and sound designer who has made a lasting impact on Caribbean theatre over two decades. A veteran of the Trinidad Tent Theatre and a mentee of icons like Peter Minshall and Derek Walcott, Manwarren is also a founding member of the pioneering Rapso group 3canal. He continues to push creative boundaries, driven by a commitment to cultural expression and artistic growth.
Participants can expect hands-on guidance through key performance elements such as body language, spatial awareness, and vocal delivery, including pitch and intonation. The structured approach ensures attendees leave with tools to make a lasting impact, whether performing at a slam, theatre, or any public venue.
Spots are limited. For more information or to register, visit academy.bocaslitfest.com or email
