Sat Feb 16, 2019
1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
The Mystic Poet-Pairing Series with Allannah Dow and Leah Hokanson
Escape from a hectic stressful world to magic by the lakeside at Nanaimo’s Bethlehem Centre. Enjoy the beloved poetry of the late Ohio-born Mary Oliver, with music interludes and improvisation by popular Gabriola Island recording artists cellist Allannah Dow and pianist Leah Hokanson. From lyrical, meditative, light and playful, to pensive; the music explores the weaving of stories within Oliver’s powerful poetic artistry. The event takes place from 1:00-2:00 pm Saturday, February 16th, 2019. Admission is by donation at Nanaimo’s multi-faith retreat haven the Bethlehem Centre, located at 2371 Arbot Rd. on Westwood Lake.
Born Mary Jane Oliver (September 10, 1935 – January 17, 2019), Oliver was an American poet who won the Pulitzer Prize and the National Book Award. In 2007, The New York Times described her as, “far and away, this country’s best-selling poet.” Maxine Kumin refers to Mary Oliver in the Women’s Review of Books as an “indefatigable guide to the natural world, particularly to its lesser-known aspects.” After reviewing Dream Work for The Nation, critic Alicia Ostriker numbered Oliver among America’s finest poets: “visionary as Emerson [… she is] among the few American poets who can describe and transmit ecstasy, while retaining a practical awareness of the world…”
Enjoy cellist Allannah Dow and pianist Leah Hokanson’s spontaneous improvisational musings at this Poetry Pairing of poetry with music with a delightful tribute to the work of the renowned poetess Mary Oliver exploring beauty, joyful improvisations and wild, daring textures. Tuneful, folky, and with hints of Celtic lore; this remarkable music duo will soothe you with their melodious sonic canvas of meditations and improvisation. Mark this event on your calendar and join with us in remembrance, celebrating the memory of the work of one of North America’s greatest modern poets at Nanaimo’s tranquil lakeside oasis and community spiritual hub, the Bethlehem Centre. Don’t miss this special afternoon celebrating Oliver’s poetry. See you there!
