Dr John Cooper Clarke received an “honorary doctorate in the arts” in July 2013 in recognition of his 50-year career. The University of Salford praised the punk poet for bringing poetry to a non-traditional audience and influencing musicians and comedians. One of his best known poetry pieces “I Wanna Be Yours” was adapted by the Arctic Monkeys for their fifth album, AM, which was released in September 2013.
Support: Mike Garry
Mike Garry was a librarian for 15 years before becoming a poet. He began by reading his own poems to the hundreds of young people who attended his Library Homework Centre. They loved what they heard and encouraged him to perform them at live poetry events and slams, which he did, instantly winning fans and prizes throughout the UK. In 2010, Mike was hand picked to tour with John Cooper Clarke by his management. “I liked what he said and the way he said it”, said John reflecting on their five year working relationship performing in over 500 venues throughout the UK and Ireland.
Support: Toria Garbutt
Since bursting onto the scene in 2014, Toria has been a regular tour support for Dr John Cooper Clarke, most recently on his ‘Luckiest Guy Alive’ tour on which Toria performed her first European date. Toria has been involved in many projects including working with young people and prisoners, relaying the importance of having your voice heard no matter what your background and using poetry to turn pain into purpose.