Valerie Bloom Performance

For the final week of our 2021 Autumn Tour we were treated to a morning of performance poetry with the legendary Valerie Bloom MBE, on stage at The Grand in Wolverhampton.

With a mischievous smile and softly spoken words Valerie began introducing herself and her poetry to the children, explaining patois and getting the children to speak the words with her. Once she had the children warmed up and on her wavelength, Valerie performed many of the poems from her new book. We welcomed the new baby with her, dared not to laugh (we did) when Grandad sings with her and knew exactly why Mum was in such a stew at Nothing to Do. Lots of sighs from the children when Valerie performed the beautifully poignant Best Friends - ‘… If you were a cup I’d be a saucer And let you rest on me And we will be best friends from now to Until eternity.’

For the final course we had Pinda Cake, with Valerie impersonating the stance of the skilful cake seller with a large rucksack balanced on her head as she moved around the stage, Pinda! Pinda Cake! Pinda! Pinda Cake! The children joined in and listened attentively throughout the show, seeing themselves in the poetry and so enjoying the glimpse into other cultures and new experiences.

To finish lots of excellent questions from the children, all answered so thoughtfully by Valerie. Then back to school for the children with a brand new copy of Stars With Flaming Tails for every child to take home and keep. What a joy!