The ambiance was accented with a sense of avid anticipation. A deep-seated interest gripped the audience as they kept their eyes glued to the “stage”. One by one the ten talented adult contestants recited their delicately crafted pieces of poetry on storms — with particular reference to the dreadful effects of the 2017 notorious villain, Madam Irma.
The event was the annual Malliouhana Poetry Competition held on the evening of Thursday, May 3rd, at the Anguilla Public Library. Now in its 9th year, the competition is staged under the auspices of the University of the West Indies Open Campus, in collaboration with the Anguilla Library Services, the Department of Youth and Culture and the Anguilla Community College. The evening’s proceedings were proficiently chaired by the University’s Manager, Dr. Phyllis Fleming-Banks.
According to Ms. Fleming-Banks, “The Malliouhana Poetry Competition was first launched in 2007. It was conceptualized to encourage literacy and artistic expression, as well as to promote an ethos of social, cultural and political awareness. Over the years, the competition has attracted over two hundred and fifty submissions from poets from all age ranges, many of whom have been featured in various publications, as well as the annual Anguilla Lit Fest.
“The Competition which was re-launched in 2015, after a two-year hiatus, now forms part of the activities to mark Anguilla Day. This year’s theme: “Neighbors Beyond Storms”, underscores the dissonance of connection and separation within national boundaries and across international borders as humanity grapples with the challenges and upheavals that characterize our modern world. Poems may refer to any experiences arising from natural or man-made hazards, personal or social friction, their impact and opportunities for healing and recovery. The subject matter of the poems can range widely and may include topics such as the environment, disasters, migration, communication, social media, politics, community cooperation, loss and human rights.”
The competition was opened to two categories: adults and juniors. A total of 32 poems were submitted. Juniors’ submissions were on written page only, but adults had the opportunity to recite in performance or to simply submit their written work. Ten adults performed, and twelve presented written pieces. Ten junior entries were made.
For the performance section, the winning results in the junior group were: 4th place (honorary mention) Tasheki Adams; 3rd place, Tyjanique Seepersaud; 2nd place, Draidahn Lico; and taking 1st place pride was Rhonicia Connor, with her poem entitled “Temporary Neighbors”.
For the performance section, the winners in the adults’ category were: 4th place (honorary mention) Eulah Bartlette; 3rd place, James Harrigan; 2nd place, Sheldon T. John; and the 1st place position was captured by the multi-talented Alexis Ryan with his work entitled “After the Storm”.
In the adults category for the written page section: 4th place (honorary mention) went to Sharon Lake, while 3rd place was won by Vanessa Croft-Thompson. Timothy Hodge won 2nd place, and Claushaun Richardson won 1st place honors.
The evening also saw honor-worthy presentations awarded to three “Malliouhana Culture Bearers”. These included Cultural Activist, Ms. Lana Gumbs, for her work in local poetry and writings on Anguilla’ s culture; Mrs. Bernice Fahie-Richardson for her literary works in Anguilla’s folklore; and Mr. Felix Fleming, as a renowned local playwright and theatrical director.
The opportunity was taken, as well, to honor an outstanding entity with the “Good Neighbor Award”, in recognition of the resilient role played with regard to stormy Irma’s passage. This prized entity was none other than our courageous and versatile neighbour, Anglec Ltd. The CEO of Anglec, Mr. David Gumbs, was on hand to accept this highly deserved recognition, and Ms. Marva Richardson did the honor of accepting the presentation on behalf of the entire Anglec team.
The Malliouhana Poetry Competition Committee wishes to thank the sponsors of the event which include: Anguilla Social Security Board, ANGLEC, DIGICEL, FLOW, Anguilla Development Board, Coral Reef Bookstore, Gadget City, and the Anguilla Literary Foundation.
The Anguiilian highly applauds the Malliouhana Poetry Competition Committee for staging yet another successful annual display of local literary talent.
