Takoma Park is looking for applications from area poets to give future poetry readings as part of the 2022-23 Takoma Park Arts cultural series, officials announced.
“Poets must submit their own original poems for consideration. Publication of some poems is a plus, but it isn’t required,” the announcement reads. “Selected poets are required to promote the reading through emails to their contacts, social media, and posting of city-produced community flyers.”
The readings will be held at the Takoma Park Community Center at 7500 Maple Ave. on Thursday evening about eight times a year between September 2022 and June 2023. The events usually include three to four poets reading original works for about 10-15 minutes.
Poets do not have to live in Takoma Park but will be expected to travel to the event at their own expense; there is no compensation for participation.
Applications may be submitted online. The deadline to apply is July 17.
The city is also accepting applications for the Takoma Park Poet Laureate program, which honors a local poet.
The selected person must live in or work the city of Takoma Park as will be expected to serve “as the city’s ambassador in promoting public appreciation of poetry, supporting a creative community of local poets, and encouraging people of all ages to write poetry,” according to the announcement.
The Poet Laureate acts as the chair of the selection committee for the above-mentioned readings and usually acts as emcee for the programs.
“The Poet Laureate will propose and complete at least one public project each year that promotes poetry or literature in Takoma Park,” the announcement adds. “The Poet Laureate may be asked to read poetry or speak at City Council meetings and public venues.”
The selected person serves a three-year term with the possibility of a second term and will receive a $3,000 honorarium each year.
The application may be submitted online and the deadline is July 17. Questions about either of these opportunities should be directed to Arts and Humanities Coordinator Brendan Smith at [email protected].
Takoma Park graphic