About
Presented by Border Lines in association with Poetry Ireland / Éigse Éireann and in partnership with Foyle Pride
Border Lines returns for a special Pride edition celebrating LGBTQ+ voices in poetry, spoken word and storytelling.The day begins with a two-hour poetry workshop led by acclaimed Derry poet Mícheál McCann, followed by an evening of readings featuring Mícheál McCann, Sam Ó Fearraigh, host Cat Brogan, and an open mic showcasing queer writers from across the North West and beyond.
Evening Reading
7.30pm
Cultúrlann Uí Chanáin
Featuring
Mícheál McCann is a poet from Derry City. His debut collection, Devotion (The Gallery Press, 2024), was Highly Commended in the Forward Prizes and named a Book of the Year by RTÉ and The Irish Times. His second collection, Lives of the Saints, was published in May 2026. He is poetry critic for The Irish Times and lives and works in Belfast as a secondary school teacher.
Sam Ó Fearraigh
Originally from Gort a' Choirce in Donegal, Sam Ó Fearraigh writes primarily in Irish for page, stage and screen. His work has appeared in An Dearcán, Comhar and The Poets' Republic, and has been anthologised in Cruinneachadh, Green Carnations and Taking Back the House.
He lives in Derry, where he spends his time acquiring books, neglecting houseplants and enjoying the lovely sound of deadlines whooshing past his ears.
Cat Brogan is an award-winning poet, performer and producer from Omagh. A former Ulster Poetry Slam Champion and BBC Edinburgh Fringe Slam winner, her work has been widely published and performed internationally. She represented Dublin in UNESCO's Slamovision and is the founder and host of Border Lines.
Open Mic
The evening will also feature an open mic for LGBTQ+ writers and allies.To reserve a slot, email catbroganpoet@gmail.com. Places are limited and will be allocated on a first come, first served basis.
Whether you're a regular poetry lover or simply curious, Border Lines offers a warm and welcoming space to celebrate queer writing and community as part of Foyle Pride 2026.
Everyone is welcome.
