The visit was set up by the History and English departments after being contacted by the US Embassy. Gina is currently the guest poet of the American Embassy’s cultural envoy program.

 

The embassy had expected a small gathering for a few interested students but more than 250 students and staff turned up to see her performance which celebrated Black History month.

 

Head of History at Loreto Ms Cooper said the performance was amusing, moving, challenging and enlightening.

 

She added: “Highlights included a poem about Michael Jackson, a video of the brilliant ‘You Move Me’ and a delightful poem dedicated to Gina’s young niece.”

 

Students were eager to ask Gina questions about her work and afterwards many were lucky enough to pose for photographs with the star.

 

“I think everyone who attended would agree that the rhythms of her poetry are captivating and we are very grateful to Ms Loring for coming up to the College and to the Embassy for organising it,” said Ms Cooper.

     

Gina’s music is reminiscent of classics like Nina Simone and Billie Holiday, with the innovation and talent of a Lauryn Hill or Jill Scott and is one of very few artists who seamlessly balance music and poetry.