StAnza 2006

StAnza is Scotland's only regular festival which is dedicated entirely to poetry. This year's festival runs from 16-19 March and the themes are Land and Ecology and Celtic Links.

International in outlook, the festival is held in the ancient university town of St Andrews and each year presents world- class poets and writers over four days packed with readings, special events, participation events, a children's programme and much more.

What's on?

Many readings are planned and will be grouped under Two Nations, Celtic Links, Translated Poets, Pamphlet Poets and Voices of Scotland as well as some stand-up sessions.

Other events will include 'Poems, Pies and Pints' sessions, Music and Word events, workshops, masterclasses, Open mic sessions, poetry slams and a poetry pamphlet fair.

This year's Poet-in-Residence is Valerie Gillies, one of Scotland's best-known contemporary poets who has received three Scottish Arts Council Book Awards and a Creative Scotland Award. Valerie will be appearing throughout the festival.

Several visual arts events are planned, including Working the Land: Local Artists and Poets which will make use of visual art material and framed original verse, with works by recognised local artists and Fife-based published poets.  Works will also be up for sale.

For more information about other exhibitions taking place, please visit the StAnza website.

The children's programme will include a workshop called Puppets and Poems where children will be able to create their own animal fables through puppets and mask-making and another workshop entitled Don't...!  - your big chance to have some mischievous fun with words and ideas. There will be many other events for children, including other workshops, school visits and a poety competition.

Supported by the National Lottery through the Scottish Arts Council.