The Crying Cafe

Imagine somewhere
we could all be audibly bawling,
sharing our troubles,
sharing a table,
sat at a Crying Café.

Inspired by Dominic Berry’s poem ‘The Crying Café’, this will be an evening of poems to make us cry – whether with sadness, laughter or joy. Hosted by Dominic and Garrick regular Ali Davenport, the hope is to create a special gathering that will uplift and connect us in the winter months.

Dominic and Ali will be performing their own poetry. There are also a number of slots for participants to share a poem that means something to them. This might be their own or other’s work – whatever pulls at the heartstrings. These will be arranged in advance of the evening. If interested, send one poem to Ali at ali.davenport@talktalk.net, along with your reasons for choosing it. Ali can also be contacted through her website: https://www.soulsurvivalguide.co/contact

On the night, selected poems can be shared in whatever way is comfortable, whether that’s sitting reading at a table or giving a full-blown performance. It can also be read on your behalf.

Dominic and Ali are keen to stress that this is poetry not therapy: ‘It’s about being human and that means it’s okay to cry. We hope you will join us – but don’t forget the tissues!’

The bar will be open afterwards if you want to stay and natter.

Dominic’s new poetry book – ‘Yes Life’ – can be bought on the night for £10. There will also be a collection for a mental health charity.