Rogovka to mark fifth anniversary of Latgalian poetry slam in September

On September 12 at 7 p.m., the Nautrēni Culture Centre in Rogovka, Rēzekne municipality, will host the fifth edition of the Latgalian-language poetry slam “Rogovkys dzejis voga.” The event is organized by the Nautrēni Association administration and the Rēzekne Municipality Culture and Tourism Department together with the Latgalian culture movement “Volūda.”

Up to eight Latgalian-writing poets will compete this year across three rounds, with the winner chosen by a five-member jury together with audience voting. Poets wishing to take part can apply online until August 30.

The evening's musical program includes a premiere performance by the band “Kei-Rei,” setting to music the words of poet Valija Platace, along with performances by musician Kārlis Kazāks and the band “Baritoni.” Following tradition, new compositions are created each year using the words of the previous year's slam winner; this year's works were prepared by “Kei-Rei,” whose members include Kate Slišāne, of the folklore group “Upīte” and the band “Tautumeitas,” and actor Dominiks Slišāns. Ethnomusicologist Ēriks Zeps will host the event.

The poetry slam in Rogovka began in 2022 to popularize this form of poetry performance in the Latgalian language. Past winners include Mārīte Slišāne, Annele Slišāne, Vinsents Kūkojs and Valija Platace. Inga Vigule, who originated the event's concept, says it has grown into an annual tradition that introduces new voices to Latgalian literature.

The winner will receive a cash prize, and the works of the three finalists will be published on the lakuga.lv portal, which will also stream the event live on September 12. In 2027, the winner will be offered a ten-day writing residency at Lūznava Manor and the chance to compete in the Latvian National Poetry Slam Championship.

Earlier that morning, a musical poetry event called “Gulguošona” will also take place in Pleikšņi, Rēzekne municipality. Admission to all events is free.