First ever Poetry Slam inspires future events

The event was hailed a huge success with entrants taking part in a three round knock-out competition by performing an original work from memory in less than three minutes.

The evening was hosted by award winning Dublin born poet, Stephen James Smith, who also performed from his book, Three Men Talking, which is currently being adopted for film.

The quality of the performances on the night was extremely high, which made the judges’ task very difficult.

After much deliberation the judges crowned Rory Jones from Belfast the first Dungannon Grand Slam champion.

A special audience vote went to Dungannon woman Dymphna Ferran.

The Upbeat Club would like to take this opportunity to thank all the poets and spoken word artists who took part in the slam.

The Club would also like to give a very big thanks to the audience also, who gave each performer a warm and rapturous reception, and Dungannon Council who part funded the event.

The response to the Poetry Slam performances has encouraged a number of local people to come forward and express an interest in a similar event.

An “Open Mic Poetry Night”, open to all forms of spoken word is being scheduled for Dungannon in the not too distant future.

If you are interested in poetry and the spoken word and would like to get involved in one of the events, simply email [email protected]

The Upbeat Club’s next venture in The Square Box Dungannon is on Friday, April 5, when it presents The Linley Hamilton Jazz Trio with the American soul singer Dana Masters.

The Club is also looking for local jazz musicians who would like the opportunity of playing alongside Linley to email at the address above, or call 07717353268.