IT was an event in which comedy, music and poetry intertwined, and what an evening it turned out to be!

Mr Smooth, rocksteady singer Ken Boothe, got the adrenaline flowing and patrons, ignoring the cold, began dancing when he took centrestage at the Villa Gardens stage on Sunday at Poetry in Motion.

He was in fine form as he quickly set about doing what he does best — giving first-class entertainment. Boothe launched into his hit song Freedom Street, taking time out to remind the crowd of those who suffered and sacrificed their lives for the precious gift. Boothe then unleashed a slew of hits which included Silver Words, Don’t You Know, When I Fall In Love, Puppet On A String and Everything I Own.

The night, however, was not all about Ken Boothe — explosive as he was. Earlier in the evening, the poets entertained with some thought-provoking, inspiring and, at times, humorous pieces.

Ras Takura, of Royal African Soldiers, held the crowd captive with Di Plantain, before going into Meck Yuh Food Be Yuh Medicine. Yasus Afari’s daughter, Tanhoi, showed signs that she is ready to walk in her father’s footsteps.

Viv Marie Brown had the audience in stitches as she told the story of Miss Mama, a woman who was so mean that she didn’t even share prayers. Urging everyone to remember to share, she reminded them that it was good to help Haiti in crisis, “but remember, we have our own little Haitis here”.

Following some pieces from Mel Cooke, it was time for Joan Andrea Hutchinson. She was good, really good, as she did pieces from her books such as Mi Ready Fi Love Yuh, Kidnap and It Done, which were particularly captivating.

Yasus Afari showed why after all the years in the business, he is still very much in demand on the internationally as he did pieces such as Complex and Patois Bible.

Owen ‘Blakka’ Ellis, who flew in from Canada for this rare performance, made every minute count. His set ranged from classroom lessons to comedy to inspiration.

But the poem that really had the audience riveted was Gateman.

“Me is a gateman, keyman, security expert, everybody have to pass through me. Me nuh partial, cater or curry favour, everybody have to show ID…” he chanted much to the amusement of his listeners.

Poets who entered the Golden Tongue contest were also awarded on Sunday. The Early Bird Award went to Ryan Haynes; Marion Johnson received the award for the person who best understood the concept of the theme.

First-place winner in the competition was Crystal Garell, who unfortunately could not come in person to collect her laptop award and certificate as she lost her mom the Saturday before the event.