Matt Abbott spoken word show in Southend

September 18, 2018 by Ray Morgan

On Thursday 11 October, poet Matt Abbott is coming to Southend to bring a five-star show to Twenty One Gallery in collaboration with local organisation Sundown Arts.

You might recognise him from the Nationwide spoken word adverts, where he performed the brilliant poem 'This place is ours' - a love song to family life and the concept of home, from Dad-dancing to Mum's Sunday roasts.

This will be Matt's second time in Southend, after a successful performance in March at Metal's 'Essex Writers' House', where he showcased his deft skills in handling topics such as the refugee crisis, and Brexit.

He will be performing alongside Hull poet Matt Nicholson, and Leigh-on-Sea-based poet and activist Chloe Smith.

About the show: Matt Abbott was volunteering at the Calais Jungle refugee camp when his native Wakefield voted 66% Leave. Why did so many working-class communities like his support Brexit so strongly? How can the UK ignore a humanitarian crisis just 22 miles from Dover?

This is a powerful, personal and political spoken word show from one of UK poetry’s rising stars. He channels the human side of politics to look at national identity, preconceptions, class and anti-

establishment anger. Poetic flair and storytelling, with a unique insight into the summer that changed everything.

Press reviews for last summer’s Edinburgh Fringe run at Underbelly Cowgate:

★★★★★

The New European

★★★★★

Broadway Baby

★★★★

The Wee Review

★★★★

The Theatre Guide

“An artist with something to say, who knows how to say it” The Scotsman

“Classy; he talks politics from the heart & with humour” The Morning Star

Rated as ‘Highly Recommended’ by FringeReview

Matt Abbott: Two Little Ducks
Twenty One Gallery Southend
Thursday 11 October 7pm-1pm
£10 payable on the door or via Eventbrite (booking fees apply)

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/sundown-arts-present-matt-abbott-two-little-ducks-tickets-47675912939

Matt will also be hosting a free 'The People's Poetry' workshop at Metal Southend from 3-5pm on 11 October. This provides you with a chance to air your views and opinions on the issues of the day; be it social, political or completely random.

This workshop is open to writers of all ages, abilities and experiences. You'll have the opportunity to publish your work in an online book, which will grow as the workshops travel around the UK.

This is limited to 10 participants on a first come, first served basis, and you need to register ASAP here:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/matt-abbott-the-peoples-poetry-free-writing-workshop-tickets-50116909024