What began as a seemingly drunken conversation between like minds has now evolved into a highly successful and dynamic project that is set for take-off. What began as a seemingly drunken conversation between like minds has now evolved into a highly successful and dynamic project that is set for take-off.The Literatti, Auckland's leading performance poetry group, was formed in 2006 after founder and initial creative director Shane Hollands got to talking about poetry with current creative director, Miriam Barr over a few drinks.

The next day, Hollands showed up on Barr's doorstep and reeled off the list of poets who had signed on, and the rest is history - The Literatti had begun.

The idea was to bring poetry out of the library, shake off its dusty, academic reputation and show people what poetry can become: something evocative, dynamic, interesting and entertaining - something anyone can enjoy and relate to.

Now, two years on, they are gathering a strong following and are set to send a contingent to The Ubud Readers and Writers Festival in Bali at the end of September.

The six-piece group unite poetry, music and aspects of theatre in a poetry-minestrone that takes poetry by the hand and pulls it well outside of the box. Each literartist brings a unique flavour and richness to this fusion experience in a true triumph of the poet's soul. They combine multiple voices in an innovative, collaborative display of spoken word that is rarely seen elsewhere.

If you haven't already seen them you can catch The Literatti in action later this month.

When: 14 September 2007
Where: The Wine Cellar, St Kevin's Arcade, K' Rd, Auckland
Tickets: Earlybird $5, $10 on the door.
Bookings: mims_53@hotmail.com

All proceeds go to The Literatti World Domination Fund towards sending a contingent to the Ubud Readers and Writers Festival.

5/9/07