John Cooper Clarke

An Evening with John Cooper Clarke at The Waterside Theatre, Aylesbury

About the Event

Prepare for an unforgettable night of razor-sharp wit, poetic prowess, and pure punk-poetry brilliance as the legendary John Cooper Clarke takes to the stage at Aylesbury’s esteemed Waterside Theatre on Sunday, 23 November 2025. This isn’t just a poetry reading; it’s a full-throttle immersion into the mind of a true iconoclast, a craftsman of words whose influence spans generations and artistic disciplines. In an era often saturated with fleeting trends, an evening with JCC is a steadfast anchor to authentic, uncompromising artistry. His presence alone electrifies a room, transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary with every syllable. Witness firsthand the man who has captivated audiences worldwide with his inimitable delivery, his searing social commentary, and his surprisingly tender observations on the human condition. This promises to be a night of intellectual fireworks and lyrical lightning, a rare opportunity to experience one of Britain’s most cherished national treasures in an intimate setting.

About John Cooper Clarke

John Cooper Clarke, affectionately known as the ‘Bard of Salford’, is a phenomenon. Born in 1949, he emerged from the gritty industrial landscape of Manchester in the 1970s, quickly establishing himself as the preeminent voice of punk poetry. His distinctive style, a rapid-fire delivery of complex rhyme schemes and often surreal imagery, set him apart from his contemporaries. Clarke’s work is characterised by its anarchic wit, its keen social observation, and its unflinching honesty, often tackling themes of poverty, alienation, and the absurdities of modern life with a darkly humorous edge.

His early career saw him gain significant notoriety, sharing stages with punk rock royalty like The Sex Pistols and The Clash, and releasing a string of influential albums including ‘O Desolato’ and ‘Disguise in Love’. He became a fixture of the burgeoning alternative scene, his performances renowned for their electrifying energy and his captivating stage persona. Beyond his musical collaborations, Clarke’s influence has been felt across various art forms. He penned lyrics for artists such as Elvis Costello, penned an autobiography, ‘I Wanna Be Yours’, which was adapted into a BBC documentary and a hit song of the same name recorded by Arctic Monkeys, and penned a children’s book, ‘The Sneezing Ant’.

Despite the passage of time, John Cooper Clarke’s relevance has only grown. He continues to tour extensively, his live shows selling out across the globe, proving that his unique brand of poetry remains as potent and engaging as ever. His notable ‘hits’, if one can call them that in the traditional sense, are the spoken word pieces that have become anthems for a generation and beyond: “Gimmix!”, “Beasley Street,” “The Twat,” “Kung Fu International,” and, of course, the universally beloved “I Wanna Be Yours.” These are not merely poems; they are sonic landscapes, meticulously crafted narratives that resonate with a powerful, enduring truth. His ability to dissect the human experience with such precision and humour is a rare gift, making him a truly indispensable figure in British culture.

Venue Information

The Waterside Theatre in Aylesbury is a vibrant hub for arts and entertainment, providing a welcoming and state-of-the-art setting for a diverse range of performances. Boasting excellent acoustics and comfortable seating, it offers an ideal environment for audiences to fully immerse themselves in the spoken word. Whether you’re a seasoned theatre-goer or attending your first live poetry event, The Waterside Theatre provides a superb backdrop for an exceptional cultural experience. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

An evening with John Cooper Clarke at The Waterside Theatre is far more than a mere recitation of verses; it is a masterclass in performance art. Prepare for a relentless, yet utterly engaging, barrage of words delivered with the distinctive rhythm and cadence that have become his trademark. Clarke’s performances are a potent brew of the hilarious and the profound, often swinging from laugh-out-loud observational humour to deeply poignant reflections on life’s complexities within the space of a single stanza.

While his setlist is always a delightful surprise, audiences can anticipate hearing cherished favourites that have cemented his legendary status. Expect iconic pieces like the blistering social commentary of “Beasley Street,” the darkly romantic plea of “I Wanna Be Yours,” and the energetic, almost manic, storytelling of “Kung Fu International.” He has a remarkable ability to weave together topical observations with timeless human experiences, ensuring that each performance feels fresh and relevant. You might also be treated to excerpts from his more recent works, showcasing his enduring lyrical dexterity and his continued sharp eye for the absurdities of the contemporary world.

Clarke’s performance style is electrifying. He is a whirlwind of energy on stage, his wiry frame and intense gaze commanding immediate attention. His delivery is a percussive force, each word precisely placed, each rhyme landing with surgical precision. He punctuates his verse with a characteristic flick of his wrist, a sardonic smile, or a sudden, impactful pause. It’s a performance that is both intellectually stimulating and viscerally thrilling. He doesn’t just recite poetry; he embodies it. The show typically runs for approximately 90 minutes to two hours, with a short interval, allowing ample time for Clarke to delve into his extensive repertoire and engage with his audience on a deeply personal level. Be prepared to be challenged, to be amused, and to be utterly captivated.

FAQs

Q: Will John Cooper Clarke be signing autographs after the show?

A: While John Cooper Clarke is known for his generosity, it is not guaranteed that he will be available for autographs immediately following every performance. His schedule can be demanding, and opportunities may be limited. We recommend checking with venue staff on the night for any official signing sessions or merchandise opportunities.

Q: Is “I Wanna Be Yours” a poem or a song?

A: “I Wanna Be Yours” originated as a poem by John Cooper Clarke. It gained significant widespread popularity through its musical adaptation by the Arctic Monkeys on their 2013 album ‘AM’. Clarke often performs the piece as spoken word poetry during his live shows, and it remains one of his most requested and beloved works.

Q: What kind of material does John Cooper Clarke perform? Is it all punk poetry?

A: While John Cooper Clarke is widely recognised as a pioneer of punk poetry, his repertoire extends far beyond this label. His work is characterised by its wit, its social commentary, its surrealism, and its sharp observations of the human condition. While some pieces carry the raw energy and social critique associated with the punk era, others are more introspective, lyrical, or darkly humorous. He draws from a vast body of work spanning several decades, so expect a rich and varied selection.

Q: Are there age restrictions for attending a John Cooper Clarke performance?

A: John Cooper Clarke’s performances are generally suitable for adults. While not explicitly explicit in every instance, his subject matter, language, and themes can sometimes be mature and satirical, which may not be appropriate for younger children. We recommend that parents exercise their discretion regarding their children’s attendance. Typically, the recommended age is 14+.

Q: Can I take photographs or videos during the performance?

A: Generally, the use of cameras and video recording equipment is prohibited during live performances at The Waterside Theatre, including by John Cooper Clarke. This is to ensure that all audience members have an uninterrupted viewing experience and to respect the artist’s performance. Please check The Waterside Theatre’s specific policies on the night, but it is advisable to put your devices away and immerse yourself in the live show.

Q: What is John Cooper Clarke’s performance style like? Is it just him reading from a book?

A: John Cooper Clarke’s performance style is far from a simple reading. He is a captivating performer known for his energetic, rapid-fire delivery, his distinctive vocalisation, and his magnetic stage presence. He rarely reads from a book, preferring to perform his poems from memory, which adds a dynamic and engaging quality to his shows. Expect theatricality, humour, and a masterful command of rhythm and rhyme.