Overview
Join us for an epic celebration of National Poetry Month, raising critical funds for Queer and Trans youth arts programs in Calgary.
Welcome to Roots to Sky: Poetry, Story & Song at Knox United Church!
Join Juno nominated artists and award winning writers on April 11, 2026, for a magical moment in celebration of National Poetry Month.
Roots to Sky: Live Revue! | April 11, 2026 | 7:00 - 9:00 PM
Join Audrey Lane Cockett, Skylar Kay, Shone Thistle, Samantha Whelan Kotkas, Sheri-D Wilson, and John Wort-Hannam for an immersive, poetic and musical offering.
Featuring light projections by Mackenzie Bedford and live performances, this gathering invites audiences into a night of language, rhythm, and shared wonder.
Roots to Sky: Writers Retreat | April 11, 2026 | 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM
During the retreat, you'll have the opportunity to ground yourself creatively during our opening circle with social artist and host of Calgary's Oratory, Priscilla Cherry and National Arts Centre's Samantha Whelan Kotkas, who's work in orchestrating a better world is sought after by schools and orchestras from coast to coast to coast.
Then dive in to a full day of written exploration!
Write Through It with Poet Laureate and Stonewall Porchlight Honouree, Shone Thistle. Rooted in spoken word traditions and a spirit of curiosity, this workshop encourages writers of all levels to follow your instincts, centre your experiences and discover that the words are waiting for you to own your story and claim your place in any moment. You'll leave this workshop with repeatable activities that build writing momentum through any moment.
Everyone Has a Story – A Songwriting Taste-Test invites participants on a guided journey through the art of songwriting, exploring ideas and creative trailheads drawn from John Wort Hannam’s acclaimed two-day workshop. Led by the Canadian folk music icon, Alberta Artist in Residence, and Church of the Longgrass storyteller, this session offers a glimpse into the craft of turning lived experience into song. No musical or songwriting experience is necessary—just curiosity and a story to tell.
Lean in with Skylar Kay by Getting in Touch with, and Writing, the Body. Recognized by the Lieutenant Governor of Alberta Arts Awards as a powerful voice and emerging artist in 2024, Kay's work continues to earn accolates including a shortlist nod for the Gerald Lampert Memorial Award for Poetry, and winning the BPAA’s Robert Kroetsch Award for Poetry. With a warm and grounding facilitation style, Skylar guides writers of all levels to reconnect with the body as a source of language, memory, and creative insight.
Last, explore Poetry Without Borders or limits with Poet Laureate Emeritus Sheri-D Wilson as she invites us to dive into the art of hybridity, fusing forms and genres that awaken new modes of thinking. With 15 books and 4 albums to her name, Wlson has received many awards and honours, including the Order of Canada, honorary Doctor of Letters – Honoris Causa from Kwantlen University, Poet Laureate Emeritus of Calgary, and Stephan G. Stephansson Award for Poetry.
Play, write, and ignite your imagination. There are limited spots for the retreat, so don't miss out on this unique experience that will leave you feeling inspired and motivated to write-onward.
Included with the retreat are light refreshments, but Sanctuary Coffee will also be open throughout the day and serving deliciousness in baked goods and refreshments. Writers retreat tickets do not include attendance at the evening performance, please purchase evening tickets separately.
Mark your calendars and join us for a day of creativity and connection at Roots to Sky!
Looking for barrier free tickets to Roots to Sky - Live Revue, drop us a quick note and we'll make sure you're in the house!
Proceeds from Roots to Sky support programming for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth in Calgary.