The 2016 competition to find the Manx Bard is now open. Sponsored by Isle of Man Arts
Council and supported by Manx Litfest, this exciting initiative launched in 2014 and every
year sees the Island’s most worthy poet appointed as Manx Bard via an open competition.

In recognition of our proud poetic heritage, the first Manx Bard, T.E. Brown, was appointed
posthumously in 2014. The first living Manx Bard, Stacey Astill, took on the mantle in
September 2015, making her inaugural appearance at Manx Litfest.

‘Stacey has been very busy making the role her own this year,’ said Bridget Carter, who
heads up the Manx Bard Committee, supported by Hazel Teare and Di Benson. ‘In the spirit
of engaging people with poetry, she has organised and hosted numerous events and
featured prominently in the media. We are really looking forward to receiving poets’
applications for this year’s competition. Our magnificent Bardic chair, staff and robes – on
permanent display in the Legislative Buildings – are ready and waiting for the next Bard,
who will be unveiled at a special event at Manx Litfest in the autumn.’

The prestigious role of Manx Bard carries a stipend and expenses to cover attendance at
cultural events both on and off the Island. The next Bard will be selected through an
application and audition process over the coming months. The competition is open to
anyone aged 18 or over who lives full-time in the Isle of Man. The winner will be selected by
a panel of judges, with entrants being judged on their written poetry, their performance and
on the initiative they can bring to this high profile role – as outlined in a proposal as part of
the application. All entries must be received on or before the closing date of 8 July 2016,
and selected entrants will be invited for audition and interview in August.

Bridget added, ‘It’s important that the chosen Bard has some understanding of Manx
heritage and the Celtic tradition of the Bard. Poetic skill, creativity and an ability to engage
and inspire the community in poetry will all be crucial elements of The Bard’s remit.’

For an entry form and competition rules, please see www.facebook.com/ManxBard or
request a copy by emailing bridgetcarterpoetry@mcb.net. Entry forms can also be found in
central locations such as the Legislative Buildings and the Henry Bloom Noble Library in
Douglas.