What does it take to write a poem that captures a festival — and the internet — all at once?

In this episode of We, The Poets, Mark Grist and Leanne Moden sit down at Backland Studios with performance poet, educator, and Glastonbury’s Poet in Residence 2025, John Berkavitch.

Berkavitch reflects on the viral success of Here’s to Glastonbury — his love letter to the builders, dreamers, and grafters who make the festival happen — and what it’s like when a poem written in a muddy field reaches over 100,000 people. But more than that, he shares the craft behind the performance: how he maps gestures line by line, uses silence and rhythm to shift a crowd, and turns each gig into a genuine “happening.” Together, we explore how to make the most of your time on stage — whether you’re performing to fifteen people in a tent or thousands waiting for The Libertines.

Berkavitch also performs Find Me at Glastonbury, written during his residency, and joins Mark and Leanne for a funny, generous, and deeply honest conversation about presence, individuality, and building a sustainable creative life.

We’re also thrilled to feature two guest poets: Hazel Warren with Nest, a lyrical exploration of language and sound, and Helen Cross with The Final Apple Pie, a moving reflection on memory, endings, and the moments we never realise are our last.

Packed with insight, humour, and heart — this episode is a celebration of craft, connection, and what really happens when poetry meets a live audience.

🎧 Find more of Berkavitch’s work at www.berkavitch.com

📝 Find more of Helen Cross’s work at https://helencrosswriting.wordpress.com/
💌 Want to feature your work on the show? Email [email protected]