1968 was the year that brought about a seismic shift in socio-political attitudes and changes. Spurred on by the civil rights and anti-war movements, in addition to fiercer activism for feminism and the LGBT community – 1968 signified the beginning of a new era. Right at the forefront of this new dawn was one of the 20th and 21st century’s most prolific poets: Maya Angelou. Through her poetry and activism, Maya Angelou healed a nation, changing the narrative around race and identity politics on a vast scale. The next addition in Wilton Music Hall’s ‘The dream of a common language: The Women Poets Who Changed 1968′ series will amass different women’s voices from different generations and nations; celebrating Angelou over a night of discussion, poetry and live music – fifty years on from this pivotal time.
Maya Angelou’s UK editor Lennie Goodings will be sharing insights into Angelou’s fascinating life and her fondest memories with the poet; writer and broadcaster Afua Hirsch shall discuss Angelou’s enduring legacy and her immense influence on millions of young women to-date. There will also be readings from actress Sheila Atim (Girl from the North Country) and some of London’s finest young jazz players, led by Miryam Solomon, reanimating the sounds of Maya Angelou’s America. A must for any Angelou fan.
