Submissions are now open for Poetry NOW: 6th annual Battle of the Bards, presented by IFOA and their long-time media partner NOW Magazine. Just in time for National Poetry Month, this popular poetry competition celebrates Canadian poetry by showcasing 20 upcoming and established writers for a night of readings on Wednesday, April 2, 2013. One poet will win an invitation to read at the 35th annual International Festival of Authors (October 23–November 2, 2013) and have their book advertised in NOW.
Twenty poets will be selected by random draw from all eligible submissions and invited to read for a maximum of five minutes. A jury comprising IFOA Director Geoffrey E. Taylor, Artistic Associate Jen Tindall and another judge to be announced will select the night’s winner.
In keeping with IFOA’s mandate to promote new literature and new voices, participants’ books must have been published within the past five years and be currently in print with a trade publisher.
Submissions should be made by a poet’s publishing representative by Monday, March 3 at noon. For full submission criteria and guidelines, publishers and poets may click here. Please note that IFOA will forgo the usual stipulation that participants refrain from participating in local events for seven days before and after the engagement, as we realize it is National Poetry Month and several events will be taking place throughout April.
Tickets to attend the event are $10 (free for supporters, students with ID and youth 25 and under). IFOA is pleased to offer a 50% discount to members of the League of Canadian Poets, Writers’ Union of Canada and Playwrights Guild of Canada.
For more information and to purchase tickets, the public may visit ifoa.org or call the Harbourfront Centre Box Office at 416-973-4000.