Michigan Humanities is thrilled to celebrate 20 years of Poetry Out Loud (POL) in our state and across the nation. In recognition of this milestone, we’ve invited Michigan POL alumni to share their stories and insight into their experience with the program.
Our next featured POL alumnus is Gabriel Blaikie, the Michigan POL State Champion in 2022. Gabriel was active in POL at Interlochen Arts Academy for one year, and currently lives in Liverpool, England.
Where are you now in your professional and/or educational career?
I am currently living in Liverpool where I am finishing up my third and final year as an acting student at Paul McCartney’s very own arts university, Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts (LIPA). While studying I’ve been able to truly hone my craft, build strong connections, and see some really good Shakespeare.
What advice would you give?
My advice would be to do it. The whole process of POL inspires a deep intrigue and love for poetry that lasts far past the competition. To this day I’m still always on the hunt for new poetry to share with my peers and inspire the work I create.
What poetry are you reading and listening to now?
I just read “Said the Shotgun to the Head,” by Saul Williams. The poem itself feels like Saul Williams was actively losing his mind while writing it, which subsequently has the reader lose their mind. It’s a wild ride. Anything by Kae Tempest is a must-read as well. “Brand New Ancients” has such a unique voice and is very special when read aloud. Kae is a great inspiration to follow for any aspiring spoken word performer.
Any views, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this blog do not necessarily represent those of the National Endowment for the Humanities or Michigan Humanities.