Radio Laria Poetry with Sharon Lee and Gemma White

Radio Laria is going to end 2026 on a high with Sharon Lee and Gemma White. Sharon is a much-loved Radio Laria regular and we have witnessed her wonderful journey from a singer and poet to a songwriter and lyricist. We have been knocked down by her songs on the open mic and we can’t wait to hear the full set. Gemma is poet and poetry mentor with a unique insight. Like life, Gemma’s poems never quite turn out how you think they will, but you still can’t help but smile. We also have ten open mic spots where you can share in front of the magical, shining bookshelves at Library Portal (opposite no. 11 Hawthorn Rd, Northcote).

Doors open 7pm and the live poetry kicks off at 7:30

Everyone is welcome to share on the open mic, there's a five-minute limit, sign up on the night and arriving early is recommended for sign up. The audience is very supportive, and we welcome new readers. Men are welcome to share on the open mic, but please be mindful that this is a night to promote women and women-identifying poets, so we ask that you behave respectfully. If you have another form of performance art, writing or storytelling that could be shared in five minutes, then we’d love to hear it!

Library Portal is a grassroots community centre run by volunteers for passionate readers and art groups. There is free tea, but there is no licensed bar. We are allowed to BYO drink/food as long as we are mindful that it is not a party space (and if you do drink tea, probably safest to bring your milk of choice as there is not always milk there. There are also coffee making facilities if you want to bring your own coffee along). This space is also right next to an apartment block, so we need to please leave quietly at the end of the night.

Location: Library Portal is opposite no. 11 Hawthorn Road at the back of a large, brick orthodox church. It is easiest to find from Hawthorn Road rather than approaching the church from the front. If you approach from opposite no. 11, there is a gateway in the fence (which is a little hard to see in the dark until you are right opposite no. 11). Once you have entered this fence gap, you will walk up a driveway with apartments on your left and then cross a green lawn. You will then see some hills host washing lines to your right and the doorway to Library Portal is to the left of those up a ramp.

Accessibility: Front entrance and performance space are wheelchair accessible.