For 2021, in conjunction with Art at the Kent’s 20/20 Hindsight exhibit, Words Out Loud highlights a half dozen Vermont authors presenting their work at the Old West Church, an historic 1823 meetinghouse, just up the road from the Kent. Please join us for Sunday afternoon readings in Calais this Fall. Unplug and listen as these six engaging wordsmiths share what they’ve wrought & written—words forged into fiction, memoir, poetry, and more.
For the continued well-being of our community and yours, we ask all Words Out Loud attendees to please abide by our current safety protocols. Masks will be required inside the Old West Church, except for presenters while speaking, and masks are strongly encouraged on the grounds outside, particularly when distancing is not possible.
Tickets are not necessary for the readings, only to enter the exhibit before or after.
Readings take place at the Old West Church, 758 Old West Church Road, Calais, VT 05640
Book signings and a chance to meet the authors follow the readings.
This year’s readers…
3 Sundays @ 3 o’clock p.m.
September 19th
September 26th
October 3rd
Presenting Words Out Loud in tandem with Art at the Kent juxtaposes the visual and literary arts of today, allowing for cross-pollination between the two, bringing contemporary creations alive in fresh ways in a unique Vermont setting.
Books by Words Out Loud authors on display in a cozy corner of the Kent General Store.
Jane Shore and Howard Norman reading, September 2017.
In the unplugged and unheated historic Old West Church, its wavy-paned, divided-light windows illuminate the space while those in attendance bring their energy and warmth to the interior. This jewel of a place allows listeners to truly tune in with the spoken word and reconnect with community in an uninterrupted and thoughtful atmosphere. It’s a rare gift these days, but it’s one that this old meetinghouse has been giving for very nearly 200 years now.
“What an incredible community Kents' Corner is—home to the Kent Museum and Words Out Loud at the Old West Church—the place to be in the fall when an impressive lineup of Vermont artists and writers present their magic! Art at the Kent and the Words Out Loud readings are at the top of Vermont's standout events. Not to be missed.”
—Sue D. Burton