From great explorers to talking clothes, the 2019 Poetry Competition certainly had some marvellous content for the pupils to showcase their poetry reciting skills.
Ed Cousens, Head of Drama, sums up the day:
We were very fortunate to welcome back Miranda Powell, a lady who had the near impossible job of declaring winners amongst a hugely talented field. Miranda was transfixed by a superb range of poetry as children from Year 3 to Year 8 bravely took to the floor in front of a packed audience and delivered poems that both amused and moved. Pupils were judged in both their charismatic facial expressions and their delivery of the poem with bespoke, personalised feedback from the judge given to every performer. Well done to the Year 7/8 pupils for writing their own poems on the themes of ‘conflict' and ‘time’. Congratulations must go to the winners and performers, but also to every child at Westbourne for entering what was a fabulous contest.
Imogen Marley, Year 8 winner, on the experience of performing:
Four finalists from each year group participated in the 2019 Poetry Competition, with Mrs Powell as the adjudicator.
The day started with Year 3; a very nervous Year 3 I could imagine. When your name is called out and you know it is your turn to perform, a whole new level of nerves strike your body. You can often hear your own heartbeat. Yet the sensation of knowing you are the one to fill the Millennium Hall with your wonderful words is amazing.
Anyone who has the chance to perform poetry will enjoy it because it is a fantastic way of expressing yourself for others to enjoy, as well as you.
After the competition ended, with a powerful and passionate poem from Tallulah P, the choir stood up and performed Laudate Dominium. It was another amazing way to fill the theatre hall with beautiful sound, whilst Mrs Powell chose the 2019 winners. What a tough job it must be to decide who should be crowned poetry winner when all the poems were exceptional.
Overall the Poetry Competition 2019 was a huge success with a brilliant selection of talented pupils contending. I hope that next year will be as enjoyable.
