LIVE!

The PTC has a long-established relationship with the Somali community, who are arguably the most poetry-obsessed people on earth! We are delighted that, in partnership with Somali Week Festival 2011, we'll be hosting a series of readings of Somali poetry across the UK.

Caasha Luul Mohamud Yusuf is regarded as one of the most exciting poets in the UK Somali diaspora. Her vivid poetry, infused with precise and beautiful imagery, has had an enthusiastic reception. Caasha has been co-translated by the young British poet, Clare Pollard, who'll be reading alongside Caasha.

We were hoping that Maxamed Xaashi Dhamac 'Gaarriye', one of the most popular and dynamic of our poets would be taking part in the tour. However, sadly, Gaarriye is seriously unwell and so he will not be able to travel to the UK.

Nevertheless, his outstanding poetry will be celebrated and read at events in Swansea and Leicester in Somali by Maxamed Xasan 'Alto' and by his translator, poet W N Herbert, whose nuanced and powerful co-translations have been widely praised.

In addition, PTC Director, Sarah Maguire and Maxamed Xasan 'Alto' have co-translated three visiting Somali poets, Axmed Shiikh Jaamac, Jamaac Kadiye Cilmi and Saado Cabdi Amarre and Sarah will be reading with the poets during the Somali Week celebrations.

1. Somali Week Festival 2011 Launch

   Saturday 22nd October 2011

   The Somali Week Festival 2011 will be launched with a spectacular series of readings by visiting poets Jaamac Kadiye Cilmi, Saado Cabdi Amarre...

2. Somali Week Festival 2011 Women's Evening

   Wednesday 26th October 2011

   A special celebration of the vital role played by Somali women, especially poets and artists, in promoting peace and development with poet Saado...

3. Caasha Lul Muhamud Yusuf and Clare Pollard at Off the Shelf in Sheffield

   Saturday 29th October 2011

   Leading Somali poet, Caasha Lul Mohamud Yusuf, reads alongside poet and translator, Clare Pollard, for the very first time.

4. Caasha Lul Mohamud Yusuf and the Poetry of Gaarriye with Clare Pollard and W N Herbert in Swansea

   Tuesday 8th November 2011

   Caasha Lul Mohamud Yusuf reads alongside her translator Clare Pollard and the poetry of Gaarriye is read by Maxamed Xasan 'Alto' and W N Herbert...