Words Out Loud returns for 2020 with the theme of “Great Southern Land”.

Wordsmiths are invited to explore the theme or simply ignore it altogether.

Note that January’s edition is a week later than usual, but we hope to maintain the schedule of the 3rd Thursday of the month for the rest of the year (except December).

This is a great opportunity to road test new material, celebrate a success or share some inspiration, or simply enjoy a diverse range of spoken word — poetry, prose or storytelling; read or recited; your own work or someone else’s.

Date: Thursday January 23

Time: doors open about 6.30pm, words from 7pm

Venue: the Printers Room, in the basement of Sebastiaans at the corner of Mair and Lydiard streets, Ballarat. Enter from Mair. Note: the venue is stair-free. Take in the air in the beer garden. Enjoy the show from couches, the tables or a seat by the bar.

Performances: Sign up on the night – a maximum of 5 minutes each.

Eat and drink: The full menu is available, as well as a $20 two-course meal deal, with bar service.

Cost: Free, with a gold coin donation appreciated.

Keep in touch: at facebook.com/wordsoutloud or join our mailing list.