Translation Required: Dr John Cooper Clarke with Special Guest

Poet; Tv & Radio Presenter; Cultural Commentator

Literary phenomenon John Cooper Clarke is a British cult hero. Known as the 'Godfather of Punk Poetry' and the original people's poet, John's cultural influence spans literature, music and fashion. From creating some of the most iconic poetry of the modern era, including "I Wanna Be Yours" (recently celebrating over 3 billion streams in its incarnation as a hit record by the Arctic Monkeys) to sharing his life story through his 140k selling memoir of the same name.

The recent release of his new best-selling poetry collection "WHAT" which is full of John's much-loved sardonic wit and hilarious ponderings on modern life. WHAT reached number 4 in the Sunday Times bestseller list.

John is referenced as a major influence not just by the Arctic Monkeys but also by artists across the globe including, The Sleaford Mods and Plan B. Whilst his legendary number "Evidently Chickentown" plays out the penultimate episode of The Sopranos. Watching John Cooper Clarke perform is an opportunity to see a living legend at the top of his game.

John Cooper Clarke shot to prominence in the late 1970s. Captivating audiences with his unique poetry and delivery style, he clawed his way up from working mens' clubs and cabaret venues in his native Salford and Manchester, to become one of the most prolific figures in punk. His work, as it grew in popularity, was put to music by legendary producer Martin Hannett and a collection of Mancunian icons including Buzzcocks' Peter Shelley and The Durutti Column's Vini Reilly. Seminal tracks such as Beasley St and Evidently Chickentown featured on his hit album Snap, Crackle and Bop, establishing John as one of the most important artists of the Punk era.