This ProArts@Noon concert features a Calgary Spoken Word Festival tribute to the all-inspiring Gerry Thurston whose presence in Calgary helped shape the arts community and bend culture into the thriving hub it is today. Come celebrate this great man!

Gerry Thurston taught for many years in the Department of Drama at the University of Calgary, but is best known for his work in the community, fostering many local artists. He originated  and conceptualized Performance Creation  Canada  as a website, and donated all info and site name etc to steering  committee, after the inaugral meeting.  His specialization is in Pedagogies related to creation of  original performances. He has 20 years association  with Michael Green and is currently an artistic consultant with Bubonic Tourist and other like-minded artists creating  community through performance.

Although many Spoken Word artists are published in the conventional book or printed magazine formats, much of their work extends beyond the boundaries of the printed page. Most Spoken Word Artists share the view that poetry must be read aloud, or lifted off the written page. In fact, all poetry must be read aloud.