Sharjah, UAE – The Sharjah Cultural Department has announced the commencement of the highly anticipated International Poetry Festival, bringing together renowned poets, literary scholars, and enthusiasts from around the world. This prestigious event, which celebrates the power of poetry as a form of cultural expression and dialogue, is set to feature a diverse lineup of performances, panel discussions, and interactive workshops.
A Global Celebration of Poetry
The International Poetry Festival, hosted in the heart of Sharjah, aims to promote cross-cultural understanding through the art of poetry. Poets from different linguistic and cultural backgrounds will present their works, reflecting themes of heritage, identity, and the shared human experience. This year’s festival carries the theme “Voices of Unity,” emphasizing the role of poetry in fostering peace, harmony, and global solidarity.
His Excellency, the Chairman of the Sharjah Cultural Department, highlighted the significance of this festival, stating, “Poetry has always been a cornerstone of cultural heritage. Through this festival, we hope to provide a platform for poetic voices from across the world to be heard and appreciated, further reinforcing Sharjah’s position as a global hub for literature and the arts.”
Festival Highlights
The event will feature poetry recitals by internationally acclaimed poets, each bringing their unique style and perspective to the stage. Audiences will have the opportunity to witness live performances in multiple languages, with translations available to ensure accessibility for all attendees.
A key highlight of the festival is the “Poets in Dialogue” segment, where poets from different countries engage in discussions about the evolution of poetry, the impact of technology on literary expression, and the role of poetry in social movements. These discussions are expected to offer valuable insights into the changing landscape of global literature.
The festival also includes interactive workshops designed to engage aspiring poets and literary enthusiasts. Sessions will cover topics such as poetic forms and structures, the art of spoken word poetry, and the impact of digital platforms on contemporary poetry. Emerging poets will have the opportunity to present their works and receive feedback from established poets and literary critics.
Honoring Literary Excellence
As part of the festival, Sharjah will honor distinguished poets with the prestigious “Sharjah Poetry Award,” recognizing their contributions to the literary world. The award ceremony will be a momentous occasion, celebrating the enduring influence of poetry in shaping culture and intellectual discourse.
Furthermore, the festival will showcase a unique exhibition titled “The Journey of Poetry,” which explores the evolution of poetry from classical to contemporary times. Rare manuscripts, audio-visual presentations, and digital poetry installations will provide attendees with a deep appreciation of poetry’s transformation through the ages.
A Cultural Hub for Literary Arts
Sharjah has long been a leading force in promoting literary arts and cultural heritage. Designated as UNESCO’s World Book Capital in 2019, the emirate has continued to foster literary initiatives that encourage creativity, reading, and artistic expression. The International Poetry Festival is one of the many literary events that reaffirm Sharjah’s commitment to supporting and nurturing global literary talent.
The festival will take place across multiple venues, including the Sharjah Cultural Palace, libraries, and universities, ensuring wide participation from students, scholars, and poetry lovers. The event will also feature a virtual component, allowing audiences from around the world to join via live-streamed sessions and interactive online forums.
Bridging Generations Through Poetry
A special segment of the festival is dedicated to young poets and student participants. The “Youth Poetry Forum” provides a space for young writers to showcase their talent and share their perspectives on contemporary issues through poetry. By involving the younger generation, the festival aims to inspire a new wave of literary talent and ensure the continued vibrancy of poetry in modern society.
Schools and universities in Sharjah are actively participating in the festival, with poetry competitions and literary discussions integrated into their academic programs. This initiative seeks to encourage students to engage with poetry, both as readers and as aspiring writers.
Looking Ahead
As the International Poetry Festival unfolds, it is expected to leave a lasting impact on attendees and participants, reinforcing the importance of poetry in cultural dialogue and artistic innovation. With its commitment to celebrating and preserving the literary arts, Sharjah continues to set an example as a leading center for poetry and cultural exchange.
The festival is open to the public, with free entry to all events, making it an inclusive and enriching experience for everyone. Literature enthusiasts, students, and poetry lovers from all walks of life are encouraged to attend and immerse themselves in the world of poetry.
Through this remarkable gathering of poetic minds, the Sharjah Cultural Department reaffirms its dedication to fostering a global appreciation of literature, one verse at a time.
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