This Saturday: Linton Kwesi Johnson live at HOME

This Saturday, HOME hosts an evening celebrating Jamaican poetry. Linton Kwesi Johnson will be appearing live on stage to pay tribute the late Michael “Mikey” Smith, an erstwhile friend and fellow poet. Smith was known for his politically-charged poems that focussed on the struggles of everyday people. Johnston will be giving an introduction to Smith’s work, as well as reading some of his own work. He will also present the evening’s main event: a screening of the documentary Upon Westminster Bridge. Produced in 1982 for the BBC’s Arena series, the film focuses on Smith’s first visit to the UK, where he performed at many iconic London locations. Here, his work resonated with the political ranting poets of the era, as well as punk and reggae musicians. The event is part of Stand Up and Spit, a series of concerts, exhibitions, and talks which celebrate the ranting poetry scene.

Sat 23 July, HOME, 2 Tony Wilson Place, First Street, Manchester, M15 4FN, Tel: 0161 200 1500, 7.30pm, £10/£9 (conc.), homemcr.org