Join us for a captivating evening of boundless poetry with Padraig Ó Tuama and the Dean of Southwark

Join us for an unforgettable evening of poetry and conversation at Southwark Cathedral.

On 14 March, immerse yourself in the captivating words of renowned poet Padraig Ó Tuama, as he takes the stage alongside the Dean of Southwark.

Experience the power of language as these two brilliant minds share their insights, stories, and reflections through the art of poetry. Prepare to be moved, inspired, and transported to new emotional depths as they explore themes of love, loss, faith, and the human experience.

Located in the heart of Southwark, the historic Southwark Cathedral provides the perfect backdrop for this intimate gathering. Its awe-inspiring architecture and serene atmosphere will enhance your connection to the spoken word, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the magic of the evening.

Don't miss this unique opportunity to witness the synergy between two exceptional talents. Whether you're a poetry enthusiast or simply curious about the power of words, Poetry Unbound promises to be an evening that will stay with you long after the final verse.

Poetry Unbound is an inspiring collection, curated by Pádraig Ó Tuama who presents fifty poems about what it means to be alive in the world today. Each poem is paired with Pádraig’s illuminating commentary that offers personal anecdotes and generous insights into the content of the poem.

Engaging, accessible and inviting, Poetry Unbound is the perfect companion for everyone who loves poetry and for anyone who wants to go deeper into poetry but doesn’t necessarily know how to do so.

Pádraig Ó Tuama is an Irish poet and theologian. Having worked in conflict resolution for many years, he now presents the podcast Poetry Unbound with On Being Studios, which has amassed over thirteen million downloads since its launch in 2020. He splits his time between Belfast and New York City.

The Very Reverend Dr Mark Oakley was ordained at St Paul’s Cathedral in 1993 and served his curacy at St John’s Wood Church. He was later appointed Chaplain to the Bishop of London and after four years was made Rector of the Actors’ church in Covent Garden. He has subsequently served as an archdeacon in the Diocese in Europe, Chancellor of St Paul’s Cathedral and Dean of St John’s College, Cambridge. Mark holds a PhD in English Literature and is an admired author of several books on poetry and spirituality. He is well known as a speaker and preacher and has been awarded both the Michael Ramsey Prize for theological writing and the Lanfranc award, by the Archbishop of Canterbury, for education and scholarship. Mark has a strong commitment to human rights and has served on the board of Liberty and the Civil Liberties Trust, as well as being awarded one of the first ‘Upstander’ awards for his work with hate crime victims. King’s College London awarded him a Fellowship in recognition of his work and ministry. Mark was installed as the Dean of Southwark in early December 2023.

This event is in-person only and will not be streamed or recorded.

Copies of Poetry Unbound will be available to purchase on the evening.