Local poet and solicitor Ian Henery launched his latest collection of poetry last weekend at a 48 hour spoken word event for charity at The Cave, Kingfisher Shopping Centre in Redditch.
The collection, Double Act, is a collaboration with photographer David Moore based on a social history project called The Grid project - In Search Of Urban Happiness - which had an exhibition at the Birmingham Central Library between January - April 2025.
Ian was doing spoken word one night in Halesowen and was invited to perform at the Creative Arts Showcase 25 at The Artrix Theatre between Saturday 8th & Sunday 9th November and funded by UK Government and Bromsgrove Council. The aim of the festival is to make creativity in all its diverse forms accessible to the community.
The festival organisers also did a review of Ian and David`s book Double Act:
Book Review by Dee Hirst (Creative Art Showcase - Charity ) & husband Keith Hirst CBE - Former Chief Executive of Metsec PLC
With both of us having strong connections into industry in Birmingham and the Black Country it was touching to see the combined photographs by David Moore and Ian Henery creating a snapshot of diversity, in the beating heart of Birmingham. The creative life of Britain’s second city needed to be showcased and put on a public platform for all to see and enjoy and this book really does it. If you have ever worked in this city this book will remind you in an elegant and inclusive way of the people and places, we all know. Beg, steal or borrow this book you’ll love it. Or why not invest in it for you and your reception area to share the love!
Dee & Keith Hirst
Other events include Bromsgrove Standard editor Tristan Harris (Saturday) and local comedian Fat Theo (Sunday), who will compere this year’s flagship weekend, promising to make it a real splash of an event.
Worcester Words Open Mic (hosted by Dave James, aka The Coach) – ensuring a lively and engaging flow.
From the new refurbished venue of the Artrix Theatre this will be explosively different and encompass:
· A carefully curated selection of artisan stalls, including leather, textiles, jewellery, ceramics, hand produced glass, locally produce including food and drink. A must for all those early stocking fillers! Stallholders Registration Open Now please visit the Craft Stalls tab to access the link to submit your application.
· Outside market zone with hot food and a seating area also featuring seasonal outside goods and gifts.
· Indoor Craft – book an experience zone, including painting, pottery, geode smashing and many other activities, book as a family, or treat yourself! Bookings open soon.
· Afternoon of Community Performance, Got to Sing Choir, Theatre Train and many other local Groups take to the stage to entertain you all afternoon.
· The premier showing of Young Creators exhibition on the Main Screen and the Winners ceremony and prizes. See Young Creators Event for further information.
Impromptu music in the Foyer, Barty buzzing about entertaining people, Dave James and team compering – it’s going to be a blast! Why not book a luxury VIP package and enjoy a fabulous, curated and hosted experience with the best seats in the house, a backstage experience and a meal and drink package all inclusive.
To register early interest in VIP packages email us at info@creativeartshowcase.org – places are limited!
The biggest most interactive celebration of Creativity and your talent is here on your doorstep for everyone’s enjoyment!
For more information:
@creativeartsshowcase.org
Registered Charity No 1198055
