In the 1880s the streets of Byron Bay (named after Vice-Admiral John Byron) were mistakenly named for English writers and philosophers by a Sydney clerk who had the romantic idea that the town was named after the sailor’s grandson George Gordon Byron (poet).
Nonetheless, there are those who have taken the idea and run with it and this Sunday Marvell Hall will host a tribute to some of the street-named fellows with poetry, music and portraits as a fundraiser for the hall.
Readers from the Dangerously Poetic Press will share the poetry and dramatic backstories of four famous poets.
In honour of Marvell Hall, 37 Marvell Street, Echo astrologer Lilith Rocha will recite a poem by Andrew Marvell. Deborah Lilly will recite a bush ballad by Henry Lawson, Susan Hayward will read Dorothea Mackellar ,and Byron Shire’s young Citizen of the Year Mia Thom will read her favourite poet Oodgeroo Noonuccal. Interludes of violin music will be performed by Vindi Ferguson.
Three portraits of the Australian poets have been donated by a local artist and will be unveiled to hang in the hall.
Refreshments will be available to celebrate. This is a fundraiser for Marvell Hall and entry is by donation, this Sunday, May 16, from 2pm.
