Four Hive poets at Off the Shelf

We’re delighted that four Hive poets will be taking to the stage for this special Off the Shelf event, celebrating some of the North’s exciting emerging poetry talent and marking the end of Beth Davies’ two-year tenure as Sheffield Poet Laureate.

Beth was appointed Sheffield Poet Laureate in 2024, following in the footsteps of fellow Hive poets Warda Yassin and Danae Wellington. To mark the end of her tenure, Off the Shelf has commissioned Beth to write a new poem, which will premiere on the night.

Joining Beth, for an evening of vibrant readings, will be emerging Hive poets Nathan Graham, Molly Knox and Safa Maryam, all recognised in the 2026 Northern Writers’ Awards.

Tickets and more info: here

About Off the Shelf Festival

Off the Shelf is Sheffield’s annual Festival of Words, bringing together writers, poets, performers and audiences for a programme of readings, talks, performances and events across the city. Established in 1991, it has grown into one of the UK’s best-known literary festivals, celebrating both established names and new and emerging voices.

About the Sheffield Poet Laureate

The Sheffield Poet Laureate is the city’s civic poetry award, celebrating an outstanding local poet who serves as an ambassador for poetry, creative writing and literary culture across Sheffield.

Sheffield’s first Poet Laureate, Otis Mensah, was appointed in 2018 by then Lord Mayor Magid Magid. Since then, the role has been held by Warda Yassin, Danae Wellington and Beth Davies, each for a two-year tenure. The Sheffield Poet Laureate is a Sheffield City Council initiative.