We are starting the year the way we love best: with words, presence, and shared stories. On 15 January, Unwanted Words Project opens the year with a new edition of Velvet Verses, hosted by Tuaca Kelly, at Theatre Bellevue in Amsterdam.
Velvet Verses is an assembly of spoken word artists that will create original works – inspired by a thematic writing prompt. Join us to savor the fruits of their labor and be inspired through the intimate world of spoken word art and poetry.
Following their performances, Velvet Verses powered by Unwanted Words Project, invites you to step up to the open mic.
All forms of literary expression are welcome, and the performances can be in any language, as long as they stay within the 5-minute 4-5-minute (maximum) time limit. Sign-ups will take place during the evening itself. First-timers encouraged to try.
Practical information
Date: 15 January
Time: 20:30
Location: Theatre Bellevue
Leidsekade 90, Amsterdam
Upstairs in the Speakeasy
A new year. A first mic. New stories waiting to be told.
Step in. Step up. Walk with us.
The evening is inspired by a timeless invitation to empathy:
“Just walk a mile in his moccasins
Before you abuse, criticize and accuse.
If just for one hour, you could find a way
To see through his eyes, instead of your own muse.”– Mary Torrans Lathrap, 1895
Theme of the night: SHOES
What does it really mean to walk in someone else’s shoes?
Shoes can carry memory, culture, and desire. They can signal status or restriction, freedom or discipline. Some of us grew up taking our shoes off at the door. Others were forced to wear them when they longed to be barefoot. Some of us dreamed of Jordans, Dr. Martens, or Vans, while others learned early what kind of movement was allowed and what was not.
For this first Velvet Verses of the year, an assembly of spoken word artists will present original work inspired by the theme SHOES, exploring identity, movement, longing, and lived experience through poetry and performance.
Featuring performances by
- Elias Bučko
- Nimruz De Castro
- Paula Breuning
- Salvador
Guided by Tuaca Kelly, we will step into an intimate world of spoken word where personal stories meet collective reflection.
ABOUT TUACA KELLY:
Hailing from multiple generations of Irish poets and musicians, Tuaca Kelly is an American poet, spoken word artist and songwriter, most known for her unique wordplay, uncanny improvisation, unpredictable humor, presence and ability to connect with the audience. She’s a collaborative creative producer and event host for Unwanted Words Project.
Open mic
After the featured performances, the stage opens up.
Velvet Verses invites you to step forward and share your own work. Any theme that makes you feel alive in your boots is welcome. Poetry, spoken word, storytelling, and experimental forms all have a place here.
- Any language
- 4 to 5 minutes per performer
- Sign-ups during the evening
- First-time performers are warmly encouraged
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