Poetry workshops inspired by 'environment and culture' of Helmsdale to be held
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A series of poetry writing workshops inspired by 'environments and cultures' that have shaped the village of Helmsdale will be held at Timespan in February and March.
The Helmsdale based arts centre is set to launch the new series led by the Caithness poet and playwright George Gunn and by the archaeologist, ethnologist, and poet Cait McCullagh.
The event forms a part of a new programme of free heritage events for the local community, which will also include a community heritage library and a series of archival film screenings.
RELATED: Community heritage library and film archive launched in Helmsdale
Held on Saturday February 18, Gunn’s workshop will focus on the story and language of poetry. It will include an afternoon open-air poetry reading at selected archeological sites in the Strath of Kildonan; and an evening poetry reading performance with the musical accompaniment of world-class piper Robert Aitken.
A three-week free poetry course led by Cait McClullagh will be held on the mornings of Friday February 17, 24, and March 3, offering experienced poets and beginners the opportunity to develop new skills and practice poetry writing inspired by the environments and cultures that have and are shaping Helmsdale and district.
The writing workshops will culminate in an 'open mic' night on March 25 at Timespan.
Christine Cowie, a local resident and former member of Timespan Board said: "Our world is changing fast, and many old stories, tales, customs, and traditions are disappearing. It is proper then that we should have them recorded and catalogued before it's too late, and made accessible to our community in their homes.
"Timespan has done just that and, hopefully, the PMA will grow with the community around it for this reason, as well as for the appeal those old tales and stories ought to have for those close to home and abroad, whose family roots are planted in Sutherland."
