Ghanaians, in the past, have shown much interest in poetry as a form of entertainment and education. Many occasions could not happen without a poetry recital, either by adults or children. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said today, as this aesthetic and rhythmic quality of language has seen a sharp decline.
To bring back the love for poetry, Outback Hotel has collaborated with Asab Poetry to hold a special event, the Syp And Soak Poetry Show.
The show, which took place at the hotel premises at Taifa Gye Nyame Street in Accra, brought many industry players, some of whom are poets and musicians.
Mr Fred Kwasi Nteku, the Manager of Outback Hotel, said in an interview with the media that the name of the hotel, Outback, was chosen due to its location. He said the hotel is committed to promoting the talents of the youth who avail themselves to exhibit them.
He showed admiration for the performers at the show, adding that this show will be replicated on the last Friday of every month. He used the opportunity to invite the general public to patronise it.
Arnold Sallas Adjei Bekoe, referred to as Asab in the industry as a spoken word artist, said the main reason for the show is to create opportunities for spoken word artists to be known and also to promote reading.
He said the new event known as Poetry and Hundred Books, which will be held in the basic schools, will help to inculcate the habit of reading in the young people.
He added that they aim to make the show a global one where many will have the opportunity on the last Friday of each month to enjoy the arts.
His message to the entertainment industry was to see poetry as a difficult craft and that funds should be committed to it just like music.
One of the performers of the show, Evan Kofi Owusu, known in the industry as Abotreh, said the show is a great platform for him to portray his music and poetry to the world.
The poet and guitarist added that the major challenge for the industry is a lack of support, but he was quick to express his belief in the leaders ability to change the situation. He thanked the organisers for coming up with a show like that.
Another musician who performed at the event, Tiffany Dillard, shared her journey in the music industry. She advised the youth to pursue what their hearts desire and enjoy their talents.
She asked Ghanaians to change their perception of music, adding that the craft can be profitable and change lives, so it should be supported.
