Cormac Fitzgerald Crowned All Ireland Poetry Slam Champion 2024
The new All Ireland Poetry Slam Champion Cormac - https://www.instagram.com/p/DDA03gNMrJD/
The All Ireland Poetry Slam Final took place on 30th November at Pearse Street Library, where 11 poets from across the island captivated an audience in a night of unforgettable performances. The competition, which showcased the very best in spoken word and poetry, culminated in the crowning of Cormac Fitzgerald as the new All Ireland Poetry Slam Champion.
The event featured a stellar lineup of poets who delivered performances of the highest caliber, weaving beautiful words into electrifying moments. The initial 11 poets were eventually narrowed down to six semi-finalists: Sean Walsh, Emmet O’Brien, Cat Brogan, Holly Hughes, Kev Kennedy, and Cormac Fitzgerald.
Adding to the evening's magic, All Things Eve provided musical interludes, and 15-year-old Virginia Paun moved the audience to the brink of tears with her poignant and heartfelt poetry. Her talent set the stage perfectly for the semi-finals, where the six poets elevated the night to even greater heights.
After much deliberation, the judges selected the final three: Holly Hughes, Kev Kennedy, and Cormac Fitzgerald. Outgoing champion Anna D delivered a mesmerising feature spot before the finalists took the stage for the final round. Each poet gave a stunning performance, but it was Cormac Fitzgerald who triumphed, earning his title as All Ireland Poetry Slam Champion. Holly Hughes placed third, with Kev Kennedy taking second.
The event was managed by MCs Leon Dunne, Sheila Ryder, and Damian O’Brien, with the support of judges Alvy Carragher, Damian Donnelly, and UNESCO's Ann-Marie Kelly. Gratitude was extended to Axis Ballymun, Poetry Ireland, UNESCO, and Pearse Street Library for their support in making the night a resounding success.
Cormac Fitzgerald's victory capped off a remarkable evening, proving that he is not only a deserving champion but one of the finest poets of his generation.