A look at Ireland's thriving spoken word scene this new year
This January, Ireland is buzzing with spoken word offering something for every enthusiast. Across Dublin, Belfast, Cork, Galway, and beyond, you’ll find a rich variety of performances, open mics, and festivals celebrating the power of words.
On January 11th, Therapy Sessions Belfast takes place at the Duncairn, hosted by Stephen James Smith and headlined by Poetry World Slam Champion Harry Baker. That same evening in Dublin, the 1916 Centenary Performing Arts Club convenes for its monthly meeting, combining drama, poetry, music, and history in a unique celebration of Irish culture.
On January 12th, Cultivating Voices Live Poetry Online provides an opportunity for poetry lovers to gather virtually from 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm. Later that evening, Tongue Fu lights up Dublin with an exciting blend of live spoken word and improvised music at Workman’s Club, in association with Poetry Ireland.
Monday, January 13th, sees Cork’s beloved Ó Bhéal hosting Jeanann Verlee (via Zoom) and Lauren McNamara in-person at the Long Valley Bar. In Dublin, The Circle Sessions at the International Bar offers a dynamic mix of spoken word, storytelling, and music.
Mid-month highlights include the Dublin Story Slam on January 15th at The Sugar Club, where storytellers compete for the Story Slam Champion title by sharing true personal tales inspired by a monthly theme. On January 16th, Smithfield Creatives Open Mic takes place at the Bernard Shaw, showcasing spoken word, music, comedy, and more. That same evening, Cistin in Dublin brings together Emma Langford, Luke Clerkin, and Dagogo Hart for an inspiring celebration of community through art.
In Cork, Sling Slang takes the stage on January 16th at Maureen’s, while IMBAS offers an evening of poetry, storytelling, and music on January 17th at Alchemy Coffee and Books.
January 20th features the Open Mic Poetry and Short Prose Night in Castlebar, Mayo, welcoming writers and poets to share their work in a relaxed atmosphere. That same evening, The Circle Sessions returns to the International Bar for another night of spoken word, storytelling, and performance.
The month continues with weekly gatherings by Fermanagh Writers on January 14th, 21st, and 28th at Blakes of the Hollow in Enniskillen, and storytelling sessions at the Ardkeen Library in Waterford every Thursday, including January 16th, 23rd, and 30th.
On January 30th, Galway takes center stage with the Moth & Butterfly Festival Launch at the Blue Note, celebrating the art of storytelling. Meanwhile, Dublin hosts several exciting events that evening, including the Sunflower Sessions at the Lord Edward and Dolcáin’s Cellar in Clondalkin.
To end the month, January 31st offers an array of performances, including Emmet Kirwan’s Accents in Dublin and a special conversation with Ruth Negga, Lisa Hannigan, and Sinéad Gleeson in Limerick at the All We Have Are Days Festival. Enniscorthy’s Creative Grounds presents Lifting the Gate and Armagh’s Open Mic Night at the Abbey Lane Theatre round out the offerings.
With such a diverse range of events, January is the perfect time to immerse yourself in Ireland’s spoken word scene.