This past week Linisa George posted to the Expressions Poetry in the Pub facebook group, an open mic series that has brought many new voices forth over the past seven years, that they were taking a break. The series is produced by August Rush – a professional and artistic partnership between George and Zahra Airall. But they both need a break to pursue other projects. I can relate and the best answer at such times is, I understand. Below is George’s full message (reposted here with her permission).
Linisa George.
Hey Expressions’ Poets, Patrons, Friends and Family,
We know many of you have been waiting with baited breath for the new season of Expressions: ‘Poetry In The Pub’ to begin. We are eternally grateful for the continued support that both performers and audiences have shared. This is why, with a heavy heart, we announce that we have decided to delay Season 8 of our open mic night. We will be embarking on personal creative projects that will prevent us from efficiently managing Poetry In The Pub over the next year.
We’ve been back and forth on the issue as we struggled with whether to bring Poetry In The Pub to a complete end or turn over the franchise to another entity. We started Expressions because we were passionate about developing and exposing the authentic and unique talents of writers, poets, spoken word artists, musicians, visual artists and other creatives that stretch across the island. After 8 years, we are still committed to that goal.
We would like to shout out Shirlette Thomas and her team at Heavenly Java 2 Go for not only providing us with a home for Expressions, but for also going above and beyond our expectations. Java 2 GO has been our home away from home, and the hospitality and support from Shirlette and her staff fuels that comfort. August Rush would also like to thank Fred and the rest of SpillingInk for providing the sound system equipment for Expressions for the past two years.
We would also like to thank EVERY performer that has stepped on stage, especially our regulars who’ve been with us from the beginning. We’ve watched so many of you step up to the mic and find your light and voices. From becoming authors of multiple publications, to gracing the stages locally and regionally, to branching off and developing your own creative initiatives, it brings us immense joy to see each of you flourish. We remain forever committed to supporting and spotlighting your amazingness. To the attentive audience members that show up every month to cheer on the artists in addition to our numerous supporters and private sponsors and donors, you form part of the development of the art and culture scene in Antigua and Barbuda. Your support is invaluable.
Expressions Poetry In The Pub will return on Tuesday 9th October, 2018. During that time our Facebook page and Twitter will remain active sharing literary news and happenings from across the island. Our Expressions: Poetry In The Pub group will remain open to all the blogger, poets, spoken words artists who want to share their work. All three pages will still be managed by us.
Although we will be on hiatus for a year, there are still many opportunities for you to get your creative fix. Please don’t forget to support the Wadadli Pen Open Mic which happens ever 2nd Saturday in the month at The Best of Books Bookstore. Do check out The Captain’s Monthly Wine-tasting & Poetry at the Captain’s Quarters Restaurant & Bar which begins on Wednesday 29th of November, where you can enjoy performances from many of our Expressionists. We are also looking forward to the 5th anniversary of Soothe happening early 2018.
Thank you all for your patience as we made the decision to take this year break. Your understanding is greatly appreciate. We will be back, better than ever, with an even greater experience for everyone.
‘Til then, continue to make loud and beautiful Expressions!!!
Linisa x Zahra
August Rush Productions Co-Founders
Wadadli Pen 