WHIDBEY ISLAND-Writers and readers are invited to nominate their favorite poet to share the stage with celebrated poets at the Burning Word poetry festival on April 26, 2008 at Whidbey Island's scenic Greenbank Farm.

The nomination period runs from Friday, November 23, 2007 through January 15, 2008.

The festival is in its fifth year and is a program of the statewide Washington Poets Association.

“From traditional to experimental, from haiku to rap and mixed-media presentations, we're looking for work and poets representing diversity in all its forms,” said Sue Ellen White, Burning Word director. “Poets will have an opportunity to perform or lead a workshop and mix with our internationally recognized headliners, Anne Waldman, Jose Kozer, Lionel Kearns and Mark Weiss.”

“We're looking for regional and local poets, established and emerging, as well as inspiring workshop leaders to help make the 2008 festival live up to its reputation as a dynamic and fun-filled event,” said White.

To nominate a poet, use the online nomination form. The nomination period begins Friday, November 23, 2007; the deadline is January 15, 2008. Poets may not apply directly, but must be nominated by another person. Nominations are open for performers and for workshop leaders.

To provide greater opportunity to all Northwest poets, those who appeared at the 2007 festival are ineligible to perform or teach at the 2008 Burning Word.

Poets will be selected by a committee of the Washington Poets Association, the state's largest organization of poets. Letters of invitation will be sent to selected poets, who will be offered an honorarium for their participation. Performers and workshop leaders also will be invited to special Burning Word events and will enjoy the warm hospitality of Whidbey islanders.

For more information:

• Visit the Burning Word web site.
• See the contact page for email information.
• Call (253) 753-6328 or (360) 341-2434.