It’s that time of year again! Pens down, pins out, slap on some sunscreen and join Spork! Poetry for glorious Summer Special in Rougemont Gardens. A sun-drenched hour (and a bit) of sumptuous spoken-word, poetry, silliness, and songs, featuring some of the best Wordsmiths around. With comedy punk poet TS Idiot and multiple award-winning Sophie Dumont. Hosted by the ever sweaty Chris White.

Sophie Dumont is a poet, editor, and copywriter. Her debut poetry collection, Sculling, explores her relationship with bodies of water, has been described as “a book of watersheds – love, death and rivers” and has featured in The Guardian, Financial Times, and The Sunday Times. Sophie won the Brian Dempsey Memorial Prize and the John Brooks Award, and has held writing residencies along Bristol Harbourside and at Exeter Custom House.

T.S. IDIOT is a queer post-punk poet. A self-taught writer and performer who cut their teeth on DIY punk gigs and have since written and produced work for BBC Arts, UNESCO and the Tate. Shortlisted for the 2023 Outspoken Prize for Poetry in Film and the Pomegranate Poetry Prize. Their debut collection Back To The Fuchsia was published by Arkbound / Palavro Press in 2024. They’re a regular on the UK spoken word scene, and have supported punk poetry icons such as John Cooper Clarke.

This performance will take place on a sun-dappled bank in Rougemont Gardens, out the back of Exeter Phoenix. You’re welcome to bring your own blankets, cushions and folding chairs, or just sprawl out in the grass. You’re also welcome to purchase refreshments from the Exeter Phoenix Cafe Bar.

Additional information
Duration: 75 mins
Age guidance: 14+
Content warning: This is an adult oriented show with some strong language and adult themes.
Please note this performance takes place outside. You may bring your own chair, blanket or cushion to sit on and refreshments can be brought into the park. In the event of wet weather, the performance may be moved into Exeter Phoenix and bookers will be contacted. The seating area is on grass. For access enquiries, please contact the Box Office.

Pre-show meal offer at The Dinosaur Cafe

Book your pre-show meal at The Dinosaur Cafe and get 20% off food!

Book between 5pm and 6.30pm on the day of the performance, and show your ticket to receive your discount (offer excludes drinks).

Address: 5 New North Road, Exeter EX4 4HH

Photography credit: Southwest Theatre Photography.