John Hegley and Cina Aissa

FROM the story of Stanley’s Stick to a book called Peace, Love and Potatoes, John Hegley’s poetry and writing finds plenty of joy in out-of-the-way places.

And now the writer and performer is teaming up with storyteller Cina Aissa to bring their quirky tales and comic takes to the Betsey Trotwood in Clerkenwell at the start of November.

John is renowned as one of the UK’s best-loved and innovative comic poets, with several bestselling volumes to his name – while French-Tunisian singer-songwriter Cina delves into a repertoire illustrating the desperate lives of working class characters of 1940s France.

Cina told the Tribune: “We both have a love of France – John’s mother was French, and he has written material that reflected this background. And while our show is in English, you may find yourself cursing that you didn’t pay a little more attention in French lessons.”

The gig takes place on November 5 at the Betsey Trotwood, 56 Farringdon Road.