Internationally acclaimed poet Robert Bly will appear at the University of Colorado at Boulder's Macky Auditorium on Tuesday, May 4, at 7:30 p.m.
Bly, the author of "Iron John," "The Sibling Society" and "The Maiden King," is known for transforming his poetry readings into artistic performances. He will be joined on stage by Marcus Wise playing tabla and David Whetstone playing sitar. His visit to CU-Boulder will raise funds for the University Libraries cultural events project.
Bly has been the author, editor and translator of more than 80 publications and he emphasizes connections that run through all cultures. He may be best known for his exploration of the male role in modern American culture. As an advocate for knowledge and shared learning, he introduces young poets and translates works of international poets, inviting many to teach with him at his conferences.
"Robert Bly gives vibrancy to literary form," said Melissa Gray, public information assistant for the University Libraries. "We are bringing him here to reconnect the cultural and intellectual aspects of the library to the community."
A library-sponsored seminar and workshop in creative writing, poetry and art featuring Bly will be offered to the public on May 3. In addition to Bly, artists Susan Aaron-Taylor, Rita Shumaker and George Kokis will give workshop participants varied approaches to the creative process and demonstrate the value of collaborative work.
The artists have worked with Bly throughout the last 30 years. Their exhibit, "Codices," on display in the Third Floor Gallery of Norlin Library, features work derived from images that coincide with Bly's poetry.
Tickets for the performance are available through Ticketmaster by calling 303-830-8497 and can be purchased at the University Memorial Center box office. Prices range from $12 to $18. For more information or to make reservations for the workshop, call 303-492-1462 or send e-mail to: graym@colorado.edu.
The performance and workshop is sponsored by the University Libraries, with grants from Continuing Education and the Center for Humanities and the Arts.