The Canada Black Music Archives presents an Evening of Spoken Word & Dub Poetry on October 3rd, at the City of Toronto Archives. This free event offers a night of discussion and powerful pieces from renowned poets in celebration of the city’s Poet Laureate, Lillian Allen.

Often praised as the “Godmother of Dub Poetry” Lillian Allen was one of several talented Toronto poets who helped carve out a home for the genre in the city, through live performances, festivals, publications, and education. Throughout its development she has remained a constant force in its message of resistance and upliftment. Opening the evening is panel discussion Perspectives on Dub Poetry’s History in Toronto, hosted by former CIUT FM radio personality and educator, Thando Hyman. The panel features academics, spoken-word artists, and culture critics, who will offer their unique insights on the development, influence, and impact of dub poetry and spoken word in Toronto. Panelists include Professor Michael Bucknor from the University of Alberta, Toronto music historian Klive Walker, Canadian spoken word artist and Order of Ontario recipient Dwayne Morgan, and award-winning author and Professor Natalee Caple of Brock University.

Following the panel, attendees will be treated to performances by an esteemed lineup of poets, including Dwayne Morgan, Andrea Thompson, Desiree McKenzie, Britta “Bee” Badour, and Mathew-Ray “Testament” Jones, the Poet Laureate for the Province of Ontario. The evening will culminate with a special performance by Lillian Allen herself, and is hosted by Toronto’s Youth Poet Laureate, Shahaddah Jack. Music will also be provided by the legendary DJ, Carl Allen.

Drinks and snacks will be available for purchase. Get your FREE tickets here now!