Celebrate your inner diva: UK poet and perfomer Rommi Smith visited Southern California this winter as our UK Writer-in-Residence at California State University, Los Angeles. From February 20 to March 17, Rommi taught and gave public readings and performances at Cal State L.A. and throughout Southern California.

• As a British Council USA UK Writer-in-Residence, Rommi joins other contemporary British literary stars as part of an ongoing literature initiative at major American universities. Read more about the program in our special feature.
  
• Learn more about Rommi Smith including her published work and her dynamic spoken word and musical performance career.
  
• Read an excerpt from Rommi's poetry.
  
• Find out more about Rommi's stay in the Los Angeles area in our residency recap.
  

Public Events

FREE PERFORMANCE

Blues, Boats and Hurricanes
Saturday, March 4
7:00 p.m.
Music Hall, Music Building, Cal State L.A.

Rommi joined a collaborative performance of music, poetry and dance featuring special guests James Ford of the Luckman Jazz Orchestra and Cal State L.A. music and creative writing students. This free event focused on creative responses to Hurricane Katrina and offered a tribute to the international influence of New Orleans' music.

FREE READING

Wednesday, March 8
6:30 p.m.
Fine Arts Gallery, Fine Arts Building, Cal State L.A.

Rommi shared her poetry at Cal State L.A. in an event that was free and open to the public.

• Don't forget to check out what's on for other great UK arts events we’re bringing to a city near you!