Poetry in motion!
The 39th annual Oldham Primary Schools Poetry Festival, organized by Oldham Metro Rotary Club, was held at Queen Elizabeth Hall, featuring exceptional performances by over 2,600 children from 38 primary schools. Awards and commendations were presented, with notable support from local dignitaries and sponsors.
Young Poets Shine at 39th Oldham Primary Schools Festival
The Queen Elizabeth Hall echoed with dramatic verse and enthusiastic applause as 2,600 children from 38 primary schools gathered for the 39th annual Oldham Primary Schools Poetry Festival and awards morning, organized by Oldham Metro Rotary Club.
Nine cups, 16 Certificates of Commendation and four Special Commendations were presented to young performers who transformed classic and contemporary poetry into theatrical spectacles featuring squawking chickens, rapping grans, walking iguanas, masks, shields and elaborate costumes.
“The standard of performance was exceptional,” declared adjudicator Hilary Henderson, who awarded the inaugural Hilary Henderson Trophy for outstanding school contribution to Greenacres Primary School. “This festival has truly been a celebration of excellent spoken word, teamwork and artistic expression not to forget the incredible hard work and dedication from the teachers and staff who have inspired and worked tirelessly with their children.”
The Worshipful Mayor of Oldham Dr Zahid Chauhan OBE, FRCGP presented The Infant Trophy to perennial winners Higher Failsworth Primary, who also received The Ann Warr Trophy. Matt Bulmer, Director of Education Early Years and Skills, presented the Audrey Carter Trophy, praising how the festival “shines an excellent light on Oldham.” The event featured works from literary giants including Rudyard Kipling, Lewis Carroll and Spike Milligan, with many parents recalling their own childhood performances as they watched children aged 3 to 11 command the stage with newfound confidence.
Source: Read original article