As a fan of poetry and spoken word, I am always on the lookout for events in Squamish that showcase local talent. One such event that has caught my attention is the Poet Next Door, founded by Stephanie Moothu a couple of years ago.
Having attended a few of these events myself, I can say firsthand that they are a truly unique and inspiring experience. From the intimate and welcoming atmosphere to the diverse range of poets and spoken word artists who take the stage, Poet Next Door is a testament to the power of community and the importance of creative expression.
It’s remarkable to think that this event was born out of Moothu’s own desire to connect with other poets in Squamish. She recognized a lack of regular poetry events in town and decided to take matters into her own hands by starting Poet Next Door in July 2022. From humble beginnings in a friend’s backyard, the event has grown to attract 60-100 people in attendance and is now held at Zephyr Cafe.
What’s particularly remarkable about Poet Next Door is its inclusivity. As Moothu emphasizes, the event is a place for both emerging and professional poets to share their work. It’s a space where anyone, regardless of their level of experience, can feel comfortable and supported in expressing themselves creatively. And as someone who has witnessed the transformation of a writer’s work from page to spoken word, I can attest to the power of this event to foster growth and self-discovery.
Moothu’s belief that art, such as poetry, is meant to be shared is evident in the ethos of Poet Next Door. And with a majority of performers being emerging poets, the event provides a vital platform for new voices to be heard and celebrated.
But Poet Next Door isn’t just about the poets themselves; it’s also about the community that surrounds them. The event has become a gathering place for locals who share a love of poetry and spoken word. It’s a space where friendships are forged, ideas are exchanged, and connections are made. In this sense, Poet Next Door is a true embodiment of the Squamish community spirit.
If you’re interested in attending a Poet Next Door event or even performing your own poetry, I highly recommend checking out their upcoming events on Eventbrite. And don’t let the ticket price deter you; Moothu ensures that no one will ever be turned away for a lack of funds.
As we look ahead to future events, I am excited to see what new voices and stories will be shared at Poet Next Door. Whether you’re a seasoned poet or someone who’s never shared their work in public before, this event is an opportunity to connect with others, celebrate creativity, and witness the transformative power of spoken word.
