Poetry in Action
On Monday, 28th July, students in Grades 8 and 10 attended performances from Poetry in Action.
The Grade 8 show titled Muse It or Lose It! explored the challenges that artificial intelligence poses to authentic self-expression through poetry and creative writing.
In the play, the Muses had to prove their value to Zeus and inspire works of art, or risk losing immortality. Students were engaged in following many zany characters in a high-energy comedy that explored music and poetry, with pop culture references from Eminem to Justin Bieber. The show examined different poetic styles from sonnets to slam poetry, linked classic literature with contemporary works, and showcased techniques such as metaphor, symbolism, and intertextuality.
The life and poetry of Wilfred Owen was the subject of the Grade 10 show titled Words of War. This was a highly engaging and informative play that showcased the powerful poetry of Wilfred Owen, including “Dulce et Decorum Est” and “Anthem for Doomed Youth”. These poems were performed and explained with students gaining valuable insights into poetic techniques such as imagery, irony, and rhythmic schemes while reflecting on the brutal realities of World War I. This show inspired critical thinking about war through the lens of one of history’s greatest war poets, linking text and context to support students in their study of War Poetry.
All students were commended by the performers for their engaging participation as an audience to what were two high-quality and informative productions.
Ben Gadsby
