Libraries in Merton are getting ready for a series of performance poetry and contemporary music events as part of the fifth Lyrics in Libraries Festival between 22 – 29 March 2007.

This year’s line-up includes quirky pop-star Frank Sidebottom, comedian Simon Munnery, John Hegley and Lynne Truss (author of Eats, Shoots and Leaves) plus an open-mike cabaret event welcoming contributions from writers and performers within the Merton area and beyond.

Lyrics in Libraries is a partnership between London based arts activists, Openhaus Arts and the London Borough of Merton. It is a series of contemporary and alternative arts events that are not often associated with the stereotypical image of a library.

Praveen Manghani and Russell Thompson, from Openhaus Arts, explained the origins of Lyrics in Libraries:
“We’d been running a successful open-mike poetry event in Merton called Taking the Mike. It was essentially a platform for local creative types to step up to the mike and perform in front of a like-minded audience. It was in many ways a mini music-hall variety show which made for an entertaining, if unpredictable, evening’s entertainment!”

Councillor Maurice Groves, Cabinet Member for Community Services said:
‘Lyrics in Libraries is something a little bit different to enjoy in Merton’s libraries. Libraries are great venues to enjoy arts and cultural activities, as well as being the local centre of the community.”

Ends

Notes to Editor:

· Please contact us if you would like photos from the event.
· Thursday 22 March: Simon Munnery
Comedy and poetry from the (lunatic) Fringe favourite.
Donald Hope Library, Colliers Wood High St, 7pm, £4/£3 conc.

· Friday 23 March: An evening with Frank Sidebottom
Classic cult pop star with a papier mache head.
Wimbledon Library, Wimbledon Hill Rd, 7pm, £4/£3 conc.

· Monday 26 March: Lynne Truss
Author of “Eats, Shoots & Leaves” and “Talk to the Hand.”
Wimbledon Library, Wimbledon Hill Rd, 7pm, free event.

· Tuesday 27 March: John Hegley
Comedy’s Poet Laureate who specialises in dogs and vegetables.
Morden Library, London Rd, 6.30pm, free event, suitable for all ages.

· Thursday 29 March: Rockin’ Rhymes @ Raynes Park
Open mike cabaret, poetry and music. Bring your poems, raps, rhymes & songs – all styles welcome! Raynes Park Library, Approach Rd, 7pm, free event.