Upcoming Shows & Workshops
New Sonic Poetries Conference, 2 days, Brock University & OCAD University, Oct 9th (St Catherine's) and Oct 10th (Toronto). My Loop Pedal workshop is Oct 10th, 2:15-3:15 at OCAD
Organized by Lillian Allen and Gregory Betts, this conference will serve to address a cross-cultural, interdisciplinary literary, musical, and sound poetry heritage across a variety of cultures. We intend to assemble a diverse collection of leading poets, sound artists, and musicians in a collaboration of diverse experimental energies. By foregrounding the work of authors who have broken through the binding silence of the page to produce astonishing and essential contributions, and engaging emerging voices in the field, we will reimagine the role of literary sound poetics in a society where silence is a luxury item, where culture is truncated by ideologies and the legacies of overlapping colonialism, and the cadence of our environment is overwhelmingly shaped by culture and capital. In a spirit of contestation to address climate change and colonialisms, we want to make noise together to expand the possibilities of contemporary performance experimentation and literary-sound scholarship. We will draw together sound poets, dub poets, digital and sound artists, Inuit throat singers, and scholars of various sonic poetries in a focused exploration of the possibilities of our auditory imagination. Click here for registration. Click here for the full schedule PDF
Loop Pedal Workshop : I will be doing a live demonstration of loop pedal and spoken word, showing the magic behind this amazing tool, and also talking a bit about how to work with live sound technicians. How to ask for what you need, know how to adjust your mic and work with them as collaborators. Spoken word isn't rock and roll and it's important your tech knows how to mix you.
Loop Pedal Workshop : I will be doing a live demonstration of loop pedal and spoken word, showing the magic behind this amazing tool, and also talking a bit about how to work with live sound technicians. How to ask for what you need, know how to adjust your mic and work with them as collaborators. Spoken word isn't rock and roll and it's important your tech knows how to mix you.
Poetry Open Mic, Buddies in Bad Times Theatre - Oct 20th, doors 4pm, 430 Show
Hiii I'm doing a poetry show in Tkaronto for the first time in a while! Just come! It's become one of the hottest open mic scenes in the city, and a fave spot of mine to try new work. I cannot wait to bring a whole set to this crowd. So great to also be in a room that includes so many generations of weirdos. If you already know, see you there, if you don't, get yerself to Buddies In Bad Times Theatre and sign up, or just join us for cocktails and mocktails and poetry that has you laughing and crying with wonderful host Raymond Helkio xo
Accessibility - set lighting, amplified sound, ramp access for both the building and stage, washrooms accessible by lift. Anonimity offered for those who cannot be seen in queer spaces. DM me for any other access questions or needs.
Accessibility - set lighting, amplified sound, ramp access for both the building and stage, washrooms accessible by lift. Anonimity offered for those who cannot be seen in queer spaces. DM me for any other access questions or needs.
Past Shows & Workshops
Word On The Street - Disapora Dialogue Literary Scavenger Hunt, Sept 29th
WORD ON THE STREET FESTIVAL, TORONTO Sept 28th & 29th, our event on the 29th.
So proud to be doing a project with The Diaspora Dialogues, such an amazing organization to collaborate with. Do check them out, they have amazing workshops and mentorships.
I am super excited to be a part of their Literary Scavenger Hunt this year at the incredible, free and outdoor annual event Word On The Street in downtown Toronto Tkaronto. Here's their description : We are thrilled to be partnering with Word on the Street Toronto this fall to host DD’s Literary Scavenger Hunt, reprising a very successful installation we produced in Queen’s Park in 2010. The hunt will take place on Sunday Sept 29the, and first run will be from 10:30 to 12:30 and then from 2-4 pm. It will engage participants in a chase of literary clues, lines of poetry, personalized literary readings, hidden books and all manner of literary oddities! Click here for the WOTS schedule, or here to find out more about Diaspora Dialogues who mentor artists in many different disciplines and are freaking fantastic here.
So proud to be doing a project with The Diaspora Dialogues, such an amazing organization to collaborate with. Do check them out, they have amazing workshops and mentorships.
I am super excited to be a part of their Literary Scavenger Hunt this year at the incredible, free and outdoor annual event Word On The Street in downtown Toronto Tkaronto. Here's their description : We are thrilled to be partnering with Word on the Street Toronto this fall to host DD’s Literary Scavenger Hunt, reprising a very successful installation we produced in Queen’s Park in 2010. The hunt will take place on Sunday Sept 29the, and first run will be from 10:30 to 12:30 and then from 2-4 pm. It will engage participants in a chase of literary clues, lines of poetry, personalized literary readings, hidden books and all manner of literary oddities! Click here for the WOTS schedule, or here to find out more about Diaspora Dialogues who mentor artists in many different disciplines and are freaking fantastic here.
Peterborough Pride Screening with ReFrame : Teaches of Peaches
Event Details
102 min | 2024 | Philipp Fussenegger, Judy Landkammer
Start off Pride Week with ReFrame for an LBGTQ+ film followed by a discussion with artist Charlie Petch. (charliecpetch.com)
Filmed during "The Teaches of Peaches Anniversary Tour" in 2022, this documentary seamlessly weaves together exclusive archival gems with dynamic tour footage capturing the transformative journey of Canadian Merrill Nisker into the internationally acclaimed cultural powerhouse Peaches. From the inception of the stage show to the rigorous rehearsals and riveting performances, the film provides an intimate look at the inner workings of a tour led by this beloved and globally celebrated icon. As a feminist musician, producer, director, and performance artist, Peaches has spent over two decades challenging gender stereotypes, solidifying her status alongside pop and music industry icons. Her fearless originality has challenged social norms, dismantled stereotypes, and confronted patriarchal power structures. Through biting wit, she advocates for LGBTQIA+ rights and tackles issues of gender and sexual identity, leaving an indelible mark on popular culture.
Note: Contains nudity, and sexually explicit language and material. Not recommended for youth under 14 years of age.
Sign up for this event at ReFrame for FREE or for an optional donation in support of documentary screenings in our community.
102 min | 2024 | Philipp Fussenegger, Judy Landkammer
Start off Pride Week with ReFrame for an LBGTQ+ film followed by a discussion with artist Charlie Petch. (charliecpetch.com)
Filmed during "The Teaches of Peaches Anniversary Tour" in 2022, this documentary seamlessly weaves together exclusive archival gems with dynamic tour footage capturing the transformative journey of Canadian Merrill Nisker into the internationally acclaimed cultural powerhouse Peaches. From the inception of the stage show to the rigorous rehearsals and riveting performances, the film provides an intimate look at the inner workings of a tour led by this beloved and globally celebrated icon. As a feminist musician, producer, director, and performance artist, Peaches has spent over two decades challenging gender stereotypes, solidifying her status alongside pop and music industry icons. Her fearless originality has challenged social norms, dismantled stereotypes, and confronted patriarchal power structures. Through biting wit, she advocates for LGBTQIA+ rights and tackles issues of gender and sexual identity, leaving an indelible mark on popular culture.
Note: Contains nudity, and sexually explicit language and material. Not recommended for youth under 14 years of age.
Sign up for this event at ReFrame for FREE or for an optional donation in support of documentary screenings in our community.
Sing For Your Supper - Diaspora Dialogues
Toronto & GTA Farmer's Markets
So proud to be doing a project with The Diaspora Dialogues, such an amazing organization to collaborate with. Do check them out, they have amazing workshops and mentorships.
I was invited along with David Delisca, Resiqra and Martin Gomes to create a piece about food and community. It's something I really hold dear and it's been a joy to share and hear what each of us came up with. We have a few shows left. We run for an hour and invite people to share their own work or create something with us, for free food vouchers. How amazing is that? Hope to see you.
Underpass Farmer’s Market, (Adelaide St East and River Street) - Thursday July 18, 6:00 PM
Dufferin Grover Farmer’s Market (Dufferin Street, south of Bloor) - Thursday August 1, 4:00 PM
I was invited along with David Delisca, Resiqra and Martin Gomes to create a piece about food and community. It's something I really hold dear and it's been a joy to share and hear what each of us came up with. We have a few shows left. We run for an hour and invite people to share their own work or create something with us, for free food vouchers. How amazing is that? Hope to see you.
Underpass Farmer’s Market, (Adelaide St East and River Street) - Thursday July 18, 6:00 PM
Dufferin Grover Farmer’s Market (Dufferin Street, south of Bloor) - Thursday August 1, 4:00 PM
Gay Jesus' birthday party with Glad Day, a Fundraiser for the legendary bookstore Friday July 19th, 8pm
Really proud to be a part of this lineup. Anyone in Toronto knows that Gay Jesus is an absolute Icon, and Glad Day could you some extra help to stay open. It's truly my favourite place on earth.
It's Gay Jesus' BIRTHDAY PARTY which means it's time for Xmas in July: Glad Day Edition✨️
Doors 8PM Show 9PM
Join us for an evening of:
🌹Drag & Burlesque Performances
🌹Silent Auction
🌹Dance Party with @likemomocita
All coming together to raise funds to support the oldest 2SLGBTQ+ bookshop in the world... GLAD DAY!
🎟 Tickets Available at the Door $15 or Pay What You Can
No one will be turned away due to lack of funds
ACCESSIBILITY
- Masked event (not including event artists)
- Cabaret portion of the evening will be seated
- Entrance is wheelchair accessible in terms of width & is street level (no stairs or lip) but there's not an automatic door
- There's a single stall washroom on the main level & it's very large. The sink & toilet are at AODA heights. It doesn't have an automatic door or motion sensors.
- For more info check out Glad Day's website or contact Glad Day directly
19+ Event
It's Gay Jesus' BIRTHDAY PARTY which means it's time for Xmas in July: Glad Day Edition✨️
Doors 8PM Show 9PM
Join us for an evening of:
🌹Drag & Burlesque Performances
🌹Silent Auction
🌹Dance Party with @likemomocita
All coming together to raise funds to support the oldest 2SLGBTQ+ bookshop in the world... GLAD DAY!
🎟 Tickets Available at the Door $15 or Pay What You Can
No one will be turned away due to lack of funds
ACCESSIBILITY
- Masked event (not including event artists)
- Cabaret portion of the evening will be seated
- Entrance is wheelchair accessible in terms of width & is street level (no stairs or lip) but there's not an automatic door
- There's a single stall washroom on the main level & it's very large. The sink & toilet are at AODA heights. It doesn't have an automatic door or motion sensors.
- For more info check out Glad Day's website or contact Glad Day directly
19+ Event
ART MEETS - Microphone & Performance workshop, with East End Arts (Toronto), Aug 3rd, 1-4 Matthew's Clubhouse.
ArtMEETS 24: Spoken Word Poetry Workshop
Facilitator: Charlie Petch
Saturday August 3rd | 1-4pm
St. Matthew’s Clubhouse | 450 Broadview Avenue
Cost: PWYC, $10-$40 | Register on Eventbrite
ABOUT THE WORKSHOPLet’s come together to create new work, learn more about spoken word poetry, and try out being on the mic!
You are invited to join east end poet, playwright, librettist, musician, lighting designer, and host, Charlie Petch, for a spoken word workshop for new or established poets! This workshop will be not only about creating new work, but also finding out more about spoken word/ poetry slam competitions, and exploring a performance feedback session that includes a microphone workshop and technical elements for online and in person performance. It is a fun and interactive workshop, and anyone can be as involved as they wish. Participants should bring whatever device or paper they need to create new work and/or take notes, and they will leave this workshop with some new poems and tools that will help you in any public speaking setting!
Facilitator: Charlie Petch
Saturday August 3rd | 1-4pm
St. Matthew’s Clubhouse | 450 Broadview Avenue
Cost: PWYC, $10-$40 | Register on Eventbrite
ABOUT THE WORKSHOPLet’s come together to create new work, learn more about spoken word poetry, and try out being on the mic!
You are invited to join east end poet, playwright, librettist, musician, lighting designer, and host, Charlie Petch, for a spoken word workshop for new or established poets! This workshop will be not only about creating new work, but also finding out more about spoken word/ poetry slam competitions, and exploring a performance feedback session that includes a microphone workshop and technical elements for online and in person performance. It is a fun and interactive workshop, and anyone can be as involved as they wish. Participants should bring whatever device or paper they need to create new work and/or take notes, and they will leave this workshop with some new poems and tools that will help you in any public speaking setting!
No One's Special at the Hot Dog Cart, Toronto, Theatre Passe Muraille March 13th to 23rd, ASL performance included
“Everything I needed to know about emergency response, I learned as a teenage hot dog vendor in downtown Toronto”
Award winning playwright, author, and spoken word performer Charlie Petch (They/He) shares their personal accounts of working at hot dog stands around downtown Toronto. Through spoken word, musical storytelling and de-escalation techniques, Charlie regales audiences with tales of survival, and kindness as a witness to life on the street. This work will be paired with De-escalation technique workshop taught by Charlie.
No One’s Special at the Hot Dog Cart will be touring to Public Energy Performing Arts, Peterborough on April 24, 2024.
There are mask mandatory performances as well as 2 performances with ASL Deaf Interpretation. Reserve a spot today, the tickets are honestly going fast.
ca.patronbase.com/_TheatrePasseMuraille/Productions/HD/Performances
Award winning playwright, author, and spoken word performer Charlie Petch (They/He) shares their personal accounts of working at hot dog stands around downtown Toronto. Through spoken word, musical storytelling and de-escalation techniques, Charlie regales audiences with tales of survival, and kindness as a witness to life on the street. This work will be paired with De-escalation technique workshop taught by Charlie.
No One’s Special at the Hot Dog Cart will be touring to Public Energy Performing Arts, Peterborough on April 24, 2024.
There are mask mandatory performances as well as 2 performances with ASL Deaf Interpretation. Reserve a spot today, the tickets are honestly going fast.
ca.patronbase.com/_TheatrePasseMuraille/Productions/HD/Performances
No one's special at the hot dog cart - Peterborough Performance, one night only Public Energy April 24th, 7pm doors
What a joy to bring this to my hometown and the theatre that first started paying me to do lighting design! Can't wait for you all to see what I've created here.
“Everything I needed to know about emergency response, I learned as a teenage hot dog vendor in downtown Toronto” Charlie Petch (perfomer/writer).
Award winning playwright, author, and spoken word performer Charlie Petch (They/He) tells true stories from their past as a 911 operator, hospital bed allocator, emergency room clerk, and street worker. “No one’s special at the hot dog cart” is filled with busking performance, novelty instruments, clown, tragicomedy, lessons in de-escalation technique, and a deep appreciation of street communities.
This work will be paired with De-escalation technique workshop taught by Charlie.
ASL Deaf Interpretation available for this performance. Get tickets here
https://publicenergy.ca/performance/no-ones-special-at-the-hot-dog-cart/
“Everything I needed to know about emergency response, I learned as a teenage hot dog vendor in downtown Toronto” Charlie Petch (perfomer/writer).
Award winning playwright, author, and spoken word performer Charlie Petch (They/He) tells true stories from their past as a 911 operator, hospital bed allocator, emergency room clerk, and street worker. “No one’s special at the hot dog cart” is filled with busking performance, novelty instruments, clown, tragicomedy, lessons in de-escalation technique, and a deep appreciation of street communities.
This work will be paired with De-escalation technique workshop taught by Charlie.
ASL Deaf Interpretation available for this performance. Get tickets here
https://publicenergy.ca/performance/no-ones-special-at-the-hot-dog-cart/
De-escalation Technique from a Former Hot Dog Vendor (the workshop) Toronto & Peterborough
I am so pleased to be able to offer this newly designed workshop called "De-escalation Technique From a Former Hot Dog Vendor" at both my Toronto and Peterborough shows. It's one that's designed especially for situations where you cannot leave, maybe you're a hot dog vendor, someone riding the subway, an office worker, retail worker to name a few instances. I will share what I learned as both a hot dog vendor and emergency services worker. These have been created with the advice and help of Kai Cheng Thom, and Donna Michelle St Bernard. We did it with the intention of care and respect for all persons involved. For Toronto (March 17th) Please email TPM's Community Engagement Coordinator at [email protected] or leave a message at 416-504-8988 (ext. 2140) if you would like to sign-up. For Peterborough, email [email protected] (April 27th, possible 28th)
Imperial Pub Reading, Toronto, 7pm, 54 Dundas St E
October 26th 7PM -
Poetry EXTRAVAGANZA at the Imperial Pub 7pm
Featuring 6 poets;
Toronto Poet Laureate Lillian Allen
Patrick Connors
Ashok Mathur
Rajinderpal S. Pal
Stedmond Pardy
Charlie Petch
Hosted by David Bateman
Poetry EXTRAVAGANZA at the Imperial Pub 7pm
Featuring 6 poets;
Toronto Poet Laureate Lillian Allen
Patrick Connors
Ashok Mathur
Rajinderpal S. Pal
Stedmond Pardy
Charlie Petch
Hosted by David Bateman
Workshops at The Theatre On King, Peterborough, Oct 31st to Nov 2nd
Very excited to bring a series of workshops and shows for my residency at The Theatre On King in Peterborough Nogojiwanong. Masking encouraged for all shows/workshops
From stage performance tips, to overcoming public speaking anxiety, to microphone workshops, to how to be an effective host, and my favourite, The Solo Show Workshop. I work with where you're at and give you all the tools you'll need as you grow your practice, or just get over public speaking anxieties.
Do one or all of the workshops. Some PWYC spots available, email me for these, or sign up at the links https://linktr.ee/sawpoet
Be Brave Onstage - Oct 31st 530 to 730pm- Performance tips for page readers, students, teachers, performers and spoken word artists. Includes Microphone Workshop Oct 31st 530 to 730pm
The Solo Show Workshop - Nov 1st 530pm to 730pm Let's build a show, talk script, sound, lighting and travelling elements.
Hosting Workshop - Nov 2nd 530 to 730pm - Learn how to use banter, inclusive language, adjust the microphone for performers, and work with sound and lights at a venue.
Thank you to the Canada Council for supporting this residency.
From stage performance tips, to overcoming public speaking anxiety, to microphone workshops, to how to be an effective host, and my favourite, The Solo Show Workshop. I work with where you're at and give you all the tools you'll need as you grow your practice, or just get over public speaking anxieties.
Do one or all of the workshops. Some PWYC spots available, email me for these, or sign up at the links https://linktr.ee/sawpoet
Be Brave Onstage - Oct 31st 530 to 730pm- Performance tips for page readers, students, teachers, performers and spoken word artists. Includes Microphone Workshop Oct 31st 530 to 730pm
The Solo Show Workshop - Nov 1st 530pm to 730pm Let's build a show, talk script, sound, lighting and travelling elements.
Hosting Workshop - Nov 2nd 530 to 730pm - Learn how to use banter, inclusive language, adjust the microphone for performers, and work with sound and lights at a venue.
Thank you to the Canada Council for supporting this residency.
Poetic Monologues, Artist in Residence feature & anything goes open mic, Nov 3rd &4th - 7pm, TTOK Peterborough
I'm excited to be performing all new works from my upcoming manuscript with Brick Books.
Because it's a performance manuscript (think monologues for gender non conformists) I'm also doing performance videos for each work.
I will do a set of these new works and the rest of the night is dedicated to open mic performances. Some will be workshop attendees, and others will sign up on the night. Anything goes! Let's have fun. Performers will get refunded, because that just makes sense.
Each night a different show, PWYC available at the door. Advance tickets at https://linktr.ee/sawpoet
Masks will be available at the door or bring your own. Performers can unmask during their performance. Let's keep each other safe
Thank you to the Canada Council for supporting this residency.
Because it's a performance manuscript (think monologues for gender non conformists) I'm also doing performance videos for each work.
I will do a set of these new works and the rest of the night is dedicated to open mic performances. Some will be workshop attendees, and others will sign up on the night. Anything goes! Let's have fun. Performers will get refunded, because that just makes sense.
Each night a different show, PWYC available at the door. Advance tickets at https://linktr.ee/sawpoet
Masks will be available at the door or bring your own. Performers can unmask during their performance. Let's keep each other safe
Thank you to the Canada Council for supporting this residency.
Poetry Live! 6pm Museum London. Open mic Feat Charlie Petch
Are you a poetry enthusiast in London? Would you like to read your own poetry or short creative work? Join us for Poetry Live!, an evening of open mic poetry at Words, hosted by novelist and poet Matthew Dawkins! We are very pleased to return to our venue at Museum London!
Where: Museum London, Centre at the Forks South
When: 5th of November, Saturday night, 6pm - 8pm
Cost: FREE and open to all ages
Host: Novelist and Poet Matthew Dawkins
Bring a poem, bring your friends!
Everyone is welcome to join us for an evening of poetry, literary trivia, food and drinks as part of the Words Festival! Over the course of the evening, our host extraordinaire, Matthew Dawkins, will open the floor to poets of all styles and varieties!
When you arrive at Museum London, you can register to read your poetry at the sign-up desk.
Come on down to Words and read your poetry on Saturday night!
This event is held in partnership with Antler River Poetry, Poetry in Voice, and Penned by Western.
Print and Publishing Festival, Dawson City, Yukon, Aug 17 to 27th, workshops & shows.
Thursday August 17th, 1 to 3pm - Authors on 8th - The opening of the festival includes a walking tour with performance stops. I'll be performing at the Pierre Burton Residency, it's the last stop and I can't wait to show you what I do!
Friday August 18th - 8:00 at Dënäkär Zho / KIAC Ballroom: Yukon Words’ Words Out Loud & Borealis Prize Presentation
Storytelling and readings by Darcy Tara McDiarmid, Helen Winton, Tara Borin, and a performance by Berton House Writer-in-residence Charlie Petch
Saturday Aug 19th - 3:00 at the Dawson Daily News: Charlie Petch Writing Workshop: Love Your Embarrassment:
In this writing workshop, spoken word/slam poet Charlie Petch asks to hear your stories. Those ones that maybe had you feeling powerless, and turn them into poetry. Bring your notebooks or writing devices, your messy, honest self and be ready to shed the shame and turn it into poetry gold. Admission by donation
Sunday Aug 20th - 3:00 at the Dawson Daily News: Charlie Petch Microphone & Performance Workshop:
Does adjusting the mic, or even using it intimidate you? Do you freeze at the thought of having to do public speaking? Charlie Petch gives you the tools you need to not only use a mic like a pro, but also how to hold an audience, whether you are reading, reciting, or even just observing, you’ll receive great tips to boost your confidence and performance. Admission by donation.
Dawson City Drag Nite - Introducing Ded Nayme! Sat August 19th Doors 10:30pm
Comedy and Drag show curated by the incredible AndyBoy! I am so excited to make a little drag debut as the only name I thought worked with my act : Ded Nayme. I'm super excited to see all these artists, including a few drag legends from Whitehorse, and COMEDY! Yaaay, I absolutely cannot wait to be a part of this amazing event.
This will be held at The Pit, and if you want to know more about the spot, just have a read of T Borin's poetry book "The Pit", it really is done with love and locals. Order it here
If you're a small town queer, I promise you'll extra love this book. I know Peterborough has it's own Pit.
Family Fest at The Guild Theatre, July 7th, Workshop & Show (4pm &7pm) Free
A whole weekend of programming at the picturesque Guild Theatre in Scarborough On. What a joy to be returning to this epic outdoor Greek Stage. At 4pm I will be doing a performance/public speaking for all levels called "Be Brave Onstage", it's fun and you get to learn how to properly adjust a mic. It's especially good for people with social anxiety. You can observe or be hands on. Either way, you'll learn so much. At 7pm I will be doing a show of my spoken word and music called "Lispy poems and wonky sounds". Loop pedals and novelty instruments (and some legit ones) abound! As always, you'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll have a memorable evening for sure, it's nothing you've seen before and I can't wait to share my work with everyone. Right near Guildwood Go, there's also free parking and you can spend the day near the bluffs. Find out more here
Acapoetry - The Sing Festival, May 31, 6pm, The Concert Hall, 888 Yonge St, Workshop 4pm
I invite you to a special AcaPoetry event with SING Vocal Arts Festival with a really special lineup: Andrea Thompson, Dahveed ODelly Delisca, Janice Jo Lee and me at the beautiful Concert Hall (corner of Yonge and Davenport.) Wed May 31st, in Tkaronto. With the discount code "SPRING" you can get 2-for-1 tickets on all SING shows. Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.ca/.../sing-in-concert-acapoetry...
I was so pleased to be asked along with Janice Jo Lee to curate, and I know both David and Andrea are not only phenomenal poets, but also their work is so based in music.
I will also be doing a performance/public speaking /and microphone workshop at 4pm that day. It's open to everyone at every point in their career. Especially effective for those with social anxiety. You can observe or get hands on with adjusting the mic and trying out hearing your voice in the space. A place to play and get used to onstage fear. Tickets are here https://www.eventbrite.com/checkout-external?eid=597333188647
Find out more about the whole festival here
I was so pleased to be asked along with Janice Jo Lee to curate, and I know both David and Andrea are not only phenomenal poets, but also their work is so based in music.
I will also be doing a performance/public speaking /and microphone workshop at 4pm that day. It's open to everyone at every point in their career. Especially effective for those with social anxiety. You can observe or get hands on with adjusting the mic and trying out hearing your voice in the space. A place to play and get used to onstage fear. Tickets are here https://www.eventbrite.com/checkout-external?eid=597333188647
Find out more about the whole festival here
Online Launch of Faerie Garden Wonderland, Stratford SpringWorks Festival Online March 25th 7pm
"Fairy Garden Wonderland" a short film animated by Raymond Helkio featuring David Bateman and Charlie C Petch will be screening from the Stratford SpringWorks festival THIS SATURDAY starting at 7PM EDT
This is an online event, tickets are PWYC:
https://tinyurl.com/3jvrzpa7
The full program of shorts is here:
https://www.springworksfestival.ca/postcards-episode-index
This is an online event, tickets are PWYC:
https://tinyurl.com/3jvrzpa7
The full program of shorts is here:
https://www.springworksfestival.ca/postcards-episode-index
MOCA - Spoken Word Tour, Fri Apr 7th, 6pm, 158 Sterling Rd Toronto
Deepen your experience of MOCA Toronto’s spring exhibitions with a special tour of spoken word performances. Featuring the talent and voices of Charlie Petch, Shelly Grace, Truth Is… and Cass Myers. Attendees will be guided through the museum by the artists as they share their intimate perspectives and poetic responses to the exhibitions by Kapwani Kiwanga, Athena Papadopoulos and Serkan Özkaya.
Each artist has developed their poetic response to a different installation, creating a tour that encourages viewers to follow a specific route through the exhibition spaces. The tour will begin on the first floor at 6 pm and take visitors through all three floors until its conclusion at 8:30 pm.
The spoken word tour will be followed by a collaborative discussion with the poets that explores the process of poetry-making in response to contemporary art. Themes of identity, creative resistance and play will be developed throughout the programme.Deepen your experience of MOCA Toronto’s spring exhibitions with a special tour of spoken word performances. Featuring the talent and voices of Charlie Petch, Shelly Grace, Truth Is… and Cass Myers. Attendees will be guided through the museum by the artists as they share their intimate perspectives and poetic responses to the exhibitions by Kapwani Kiwanga, Athena Papadopoulos and Serkan Özkaya.
Each artist has developed their poetic response to a different installation, creating a tour that encourages viewers to follow a specific route through the exhibition spaces. The tour will begin on the first floor at 6 pm and take visitors through all three floors until its conclusion at 8:30 pm.
The spoken word tour will be followed by a collaborative discussion with the poets that explores the process of poetry-making in response to contemporary art. Themes of identity, creative resistance and play will be developed throughout the programme.Deepen your experience of MOCA Toronto’s spring exhibitions with a special tour of spoken word performances. Featuring the talent and voices of Charlie Petch, Shelly Grace, Truth Is… and Cass Myers. Attendees will be guided through the museum by the artists as they share their intimate perspectives and poetic responses to the exhibitions by Kapwani Kiwanga, Athena Papadopoulos and Serkan Özkaya.
Verses Festival of Words, Vancouver, April 20th to 30th
Very happy to be returning to my other favourite city Vancouver! This is a legendary spoken word festival and I'm excited to be a part of a national panel discussion, a wonderfully ridiculous show "Famous Last Words" and I'll be doing a performance workshop as well. Tickets will be up soon! Join me, it's also a national Poetry Slam competition to determine which of our poets will go on to compete in the International Individual Poetry Slam competition. Tickets will go on sale soon, find out more here
Brickyards Mentorship Showcase, Online 7pm EST - registration in link
I have had the immense honour of being one of the mentors for this year's Brickyards mentorship program along with Ian Keteku. We worked with 4 mentees each to create poetry and also do videos for them as a part of Brickyards, the audio/visual arm of Brick Books. I am so proud of the work we did and we can't wait for you to see it. I'll be hosting with Cass Myers. Pre Register so we know how many will be showing up, and we're super proud to be presenting this online. Big love to Andrea Thompson who is the mentor to all of us in Brickyards, it's so special to be a part of this. Pre -register here
https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAlcO2hpzouGd1NK9KOL9ZnKMoPwNHHanks
https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAlcO2hpzouGd1NK9KOL9ZnKMoPwNHHanks
Opening for Shane Koyczan In Kingston On, Sat Nov 26th, doors 7pm, show 8pm The Broom Factory
I am so happy to be sharing the stage with my dear friend Shane, who does such an inspiring set. I'll do a few poems then join the audience for this amazing performer, if you've never seen him do his thing, he's a real life changer. Join us, it's winter, we need something for our souls. Reserve your seat now at https://www.ticketscene.ca/events/42439/
Opening for Shane Koyczan in Ottawa, The Algonquin Commons Theatre, Sun Nov 27th, 8pm
Ok so maybe we're on a wee tour. I'll be doing a longer opening set here and I cannot wait to be in this amazing theatre. Join us for a night that just might save your damn life. Humorous and so humane, there's nothing like a Shane Koyczan show, truly. Get your tickets here
The Buzz Workshop Series - De-escalation Technique from a former Hot Dog Vendor at Theatre Passe Muraille
Huge thanks to Theatre Passe Muraille, for believing in this work I proposed. Last year they invited me to develop my show "No one's special at the hot dog cart" with their The Buzz program and we did a great workshop performance. This year I've been invited to develop my workshop that goes with the show. The show puts forward 5 methods of de-escalation techniques, and this second part will invite audience to further develop their own skills in a workshop setting. I will be devcloping it with Kai Cheng Thom and Donna Michelle St Bernard. I can't wait to see what we come up with. Invited participants only but soon my pretties, soon the whole shebang may come your way!
Vancouver Writer's Festival, Oct 17th - 23rd
Holy crap everyone, I'm joining this year's immense lineup of writers and changemakers. Danny Ramadan! Joshua Whitehead, Billy-Ray Belcourt, Heather O'Neill, Lisa Moore... and more! (sorry not sorry for the dad joke) Click here to find out more. I will be doing two events, the first is "WORD- The Revue Stage" which is already sold out but available on you tube, Oct 19th 1pm PST. An event for youth spoken word with myself, Jillian Christmas, Brendan McLeod and Lucia Minsch. Then I will be a part of the incredible "Poetry Bash" on Oct 21st 830pm EST at Performance works, hosted by BillehNickerson, with this incredible lineup. There's still tickets available. Join us! Lots of live and livestream events. Cannot wait.
Threa Almontaser
Andrew Faulkner
Claudia Castro Luna
Billeh Nickerson
Alexandra Oliver
Charlie Petch
Tayi Tibble
Threa Almontaser
Andrew Faulkner
Claudia Castro Luna
Billeh Nickerson
Alexandra Oliver
Charlie Petch
Tayi Tibble
Performance workshop, Vancouver, Next door studios 530 to 7pm PST, Hybrid event
Performance Coaching Workshop
Award winning theatre artist and performance poet, Charlie Petch wants to help you improve your onstage game. As a former slam coach for Toronto Poetry Slam, and theatre director, I know I can help you not only form a poem that is going to grab an audience’s attention, but also help you with performance tools to ensure the audience will be moved, connected with, and entertained. Whether you recite from the page or from memory, this is the workshop for you. Included is a microphone workshop, how to use a stand, control pops and feedback. For all levels of social anxiety, observe or dive in. You’re all welcome.
Bring your own work for feedback and gentle coaching, let’s get you to really shine onstage.
**This is a hybrid workshop, with this link for folks engaging online. For more information on registering to attend in-person at Next Door Studios (1638 Venables St.) email: [email protected]
Workshop fee is $25.
Vancouver Poetry House is committed to reducing barriers. If the ticket price is prohibitive- contact [email protected] for confidential support and access to the workshop. No one will be turned away within participant capacity of the workshop, registration is first come first serve
https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/performance-workshop-with-charlie-petch-tickets-442808190217
Award winning theatre artist and performance poet, Charlie Petch wants to help you improve your onstage game. As a former slam coach for Toronto Poetry Slam, and theatre director, I know I can help you not only form a poem that is going to grab an audience’s attention, but also help you with performance tools to ensure the audience will be moved, connected with, and entertained. Whether you recite from the page or from memory, this is the workshop for you. Included is a microphone workshop, how to use a stand, control pops and feedback. For all levels of social anxiety, observe or dive in. You’re all welcome.
Bring your own work for feedback and gentle coaching, let’s get you to really shine onstage.
**This is a hybrid workshop, with this link for folks engaging online. For more information on registering to attend in-person at Next Door Studios (1638 Venables St.) email: [email protected]
Workshop fee is $25.
Vancouver Poetry House is committed to reducing barriers. If the ticket price is prohibitive- contact [email protected] for confidential support and access to the workshop. No one will be turned away within participant capacity of the workshop, registration is first come first serve
https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/performance-workshop-with-charlie-petch-tickets-442808190217
Tongues of Fire, Victoria Spoken Word, Oct 27th, Cafe Fantastico, 630pm doors
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Very happy to be back and working with shows that honour mask mandates. I've missed seeing my community out west and I can't wait to see you all for this show. This will be a the Cafe Fantastico on Quadra Ave, 630 pm sign up for those who want to hit the stage, and a 7pm show start. I'll be doing a feature set and hope you pick up a book at Munro's for me to sign :)
Show up, and sign up, here's a link to their website for any other info. |
Nanaimo, Vancouver Island University Arubutus room, 10 am Oct 31 st
Very excited to be bringing a performance to this incredible university. I just love Nanaimo and it's an honour to be presenting from my book and some new works as well. I hope to see you there. I need a forest walking buddy!
Poetry for the People, We All Belong, Sat Sept 24th, 6pm to 8pm, Outdoor poetry at Allen Gardens, with Clifton Joseph, Robert Priest, Janet Rogers & host Lillian Allen
Join myself and these Iconic poets for a truly special day in the park together. We will be performing outdoors at Toronto's Allen Gardens. There will be poetry, poetry with music and an open mic portion so you can join us! Just a heads up that construction is preventing entrance to their accessible washroom. There will be washrooms on site though and close by is 833 Sherbourne Health Center which has an accessible washroom and is open until 8pm. Bring any seating you need and be ready for a really wonderful show.
Medusa's Children, Online film launch, June 6th till 30th, Opera Q.
I wrote a libretto for this amazing new Opera company, Opera Q. They are dedicated to the stories and performances of 2SLGBTQPIA+ people in opera. I've had a chance to see the finished product, complete with non binary opera singers playing non binary roles! And the score by Colin McMahon is just incredible. Thanks to funding from the Canada Council, we shifted from stage to opera movie done by Coffeehouse Productions. Here's the link to hear and see more about the production including interviews. Join me virtually. Maybe I'll have a little backyard screening too :)
Also look at this gorgeous image by Apanaki! We are so blessed she found our story so inspiring.
A new chamber opera in English with text by Charlie Petch (Mel Malarkey, Daughter of Geppetto, Why I Was Late) and music by Colin McMahon.
Medusa’s Children explores themes of family, loss, sexual violence, and toxic masculinity through a trans and queer lens, drawing on the aftermath of the Medusa myth to tell a story at once dark, tender, and whimsical.
Directed by Lauren Halasz and starring Rebecca Cuddy, Rebecca Gray, Renee Fajardo, Rachel Miller, and Hillary Jean Young.
Find out more at OperaQ's website.
Tickets from Eventbrite
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The film is approximately 1 hour long and is subtitled in English.
Tickets are by donation (pay-what-you-can, suggested donation $10-$20)
Content warning: contains mentions of sexual assault, misgendering, and implied violence
Also look at this gorgeous image by Apanaki! We are so blessed she found our story so inspiring.
A new chamber opera in English with text by Charlie Petch (Mel Malarkey, Daughter of Geppetto, Why I Was Late) and music by Colin McMahon.
Medusa’s Children explores themes of family, loss, sexual violence, and toxic masculinity through a trans and queer lens, drawing on the aftermath of the Medusa myth to tell a story at once dark, tender, and whimsical.
Directed by Lauren Halasz and starring Rebecca Cuddy, Rebecca Gray, Renee Fajardo, Rachel Miller, and Hillary Jean Young.
Find out more at OperaQ's website.
Tickets from Eventbrite
______________________________________________________________________________________________
The film is approximately 1 hour long and is subtitled in English.
Tickets are by donation (pay-what-you-can, suggested donation $10-$20)
Content warning: contains mentions of sexual assault, misgendering, and implied violence
Word On The Street, June 11th Mainstage w Nancy Jo Cullen, 430pm Online & Livestreamed with captions
So very honoured to be co featuring with the incredible Nancy Jo Cullen on the mainstage at this legendary outdoor festival. Honestly how cool. It will be an interview and I'll also read and perform a bit of loop pedal magic . Here's their website to learn more! and this is the You Tube Link for the livestream on the day.
Greenwood Park Poetry 4, outdoor reading in Toronto, Sun Jun 19th, 230pm to 4:30 pm
Four gifted People's Poets in four sets of 20 minutes each. Lillian Allen, Charlie Petch, Robert Priest and introducing the delimited Lawrence Bayne
Ok I just legit am into the chilling in the park with these poets! Both Lillian Allen and Robert Priest are such huge Icons as well as being kind leaders, and just champion people. I"m super chuffed to be presenting alongside them and I truly am all about the outdoor reading. Come out Toronto/Tkaronto, it's going to be great and you can just bring your dogs and whatever, it's poetry in the park!
Ok I just legit am into the chilling in the park with these poets! Both Lillian Allen and Robert Priest are such huge Icons as well as being kind leaders, and just champion people. I"m super chuffed to be presenting alongside them and I truly am all about the outdoor reading. Come out Toronto/Tkaronto, it's going to be great and you can just bring your dogs and whatever, it's poetry in the park!
SING festival, June 4th show, outdoor free event, 1pm Trillium Park
Very happy to be a part of this event that not only is legendary for singers, but has been also including spoken word in its lineup. Very happy to be on the same stage as my roomie and fantabulous Janice Lee. This free concert series runs on both weekends of SING! 2022, and features a wide range of performers, including choirs, spoken word poets, small vocal groups, live loopers, and more! Take in a beautiful view of the Toronto city skyline from Trillium Park (Ontario Place) while you enjoy a wide variety of local Toronto talent. No ticket required! Scroll down for Artist Bios.
June 4th
12:00pm Jordana Talsky & My Pop Choir
1:15pm Charlie Petch
1:55pm Unaccompanied Minors
2:35pm Janice Lee
3:10pm Jordana Talksy & My Pop Choir
4:20pm Unaccompanied Minors
June 4th
12:00pm Jordana Talsky & My Pop Choir
1:15pm Charlie Petch
1:55pm Unaccompanied Minors
2:35pm Janice Lee
3:10pm Jordana Talksy & My Pop Choir
4:20pm Unaccompanied Minors
The Theatre On King Book Launch, Peterborough On, May 25th, 7pm-930pm
Join award-winning authors Michelle Berry, Frank Flynn, Charlie Petch, Kate Story, and PJ Thomas for an intimate evening of reading and conversation.
This event may be live-streamed. Follow us on social media for updates.
Books will be for sale. Please bring cash!
Covid policy: audiences must be masked, vaxxed, and TTOK is keeping seating at a reduced capacity.
Order tickets here: https://www.eventbrite.ca/.../between-the-covers-tickets...
This event may be live-streamed. Follow us on social media for updates.
Books will be for sale. Please bring cash!
Covid policy: audiences must be masked, vaxxed, and TTOK is keeping seating at a reduced capacity.
Order tickets here: https://www.eventbrite.ca/.../between-the-covers-tickets...
Toronto Storytelling Festival, May 13th, Spoken Melodies, Online event time tba
Very excited to be a part of this legendary festival happening online and in person in Toronto. The festival kicks off May 6th and there's so many wonderful events and talented folks. My event will be online, hope to see you there!
The Toronto International Storytelling Festival celebrates oral storytelling with traditional stories, personal true stories, poetry and so much more. The Festival promotes the sharing of values and cultures that connect us together. The Festival also honours the many cultural traditions that come together in Toronto, one of the greatest crossroad cities in the world.
Now in our 43rd year, this is one of the world’s largest and oldest urban celebrations of live storytelling, oral traditions, and cultural diversity. We’ve pioneered grassroots storytelling in the community, and especially the importance of storytelling as a way to build intercultural and inter-generational bridges.
The Toronto International Storytelling Festival is produced by Storytelling Toronto, a Toronto based charity, that promotes and teaches the art of oral storytelling. Find out more by clicking the link here
The Toronto International Storytelling Festival celebrates oral storytelling with traditional stories, personal true stories, poetry and so much more. The Festival promotes the sharing of values and cultures that connect us together. The Festival also honours the many cultural traditions that come together in Toronto, one of the greatest crossroad cities in the world.
Now in our 43rd year, this is one of the world’s largest and oldest urban celebrations of live storytelling, oral traditions, and cultural diversity. We’ve pioneered grassroots storytelling in the community, and especially the importance of storytelling as a way to build intercultural and inter-generational bridges.
The Toronto International Storytelling Festival is produced by Storytelling Toronto, a Toronto based charity, that promotes and teaches the art of oral storytelling. Find out more by clicking the link here
Urban Legends Feature, Online April 22nd, 7pm EST
https://fb.me/e/3v76171A0
Only one week until another virtual ULPC Broken Mic, featuring Charlie Petch and Spotlight performer Bad Riya the Poet!
'Doors' open at 7 P.M., PWYC! Sign up for the open mic starts day of, at 12pm EST! Message us on any of our socials or email us at [email protected] to secure your spot. Poets who sign up to perform are not required to buy a ticket; we will send you the Zoom link after you have signed up.
[Image Description: A black and white photo of Charlie, a transmasculine person with dirty blonde and grey hair, resting their head in their hand and smiling slightly. Text reads: “Our headlining poet / Charlie Petch / Apr 22 at 7pm EST on Zoom”]
Only one week until another virtual ULPC Broken Mic, featuring Charlie Petch and Spotlight performer Bad Riya the Poet!
'Doors' open at 7 P.M., PWYC! Sign up for the open mic starts day of, at 12pm EST! Message us on any of our socials or email us at [email protected] to secure your spot. Poets who sign up to perform are not required to buy a ticket; we will send you the Zoom link after you have signed up.
[Image Description: A black and white photo of Charlie, a transmasculine person with dirty blonde and grey hair, resting their head in their hand and smiling slightly. Text reads: “Our headlining poet / Charlie Petch / Apr 22 at 7pm EST on Zoom”]
Hot Damn It's a Queer Slam feature & open mic. April 16th, 6pm EdT Online
Friends, it's such an honour to return to Hot Damn as a feature! Since handing over the reins to the collective last year, I have been so happy to see how it's flourishing. I'm super proud to be a part of this legacy. Go team! Let's celebrate with a feature set.
Join us on April 16th at 6PM EST for our second Season Eight Slam and Open Mic with Charlie Petch! All Queer Slam events this season will be VIRTUAL! Head over to the Eventbrite link here: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/243868446087
Join us on April 16th at 6PM EST for our second Season Eight Slam and Open Mic with Charlie Petch! All Queer Slam events this season will be VIRTUAL! Head over to the Eventbrite link here: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/243868446087
"Daughter of Geppetto" April 8th (in-person) & 9th (livestream) at Citadel with Wind in the Leaves, dance & poetry festival
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My friends I will be doing a live performance and online livestream at the Citadel, a wonderful theatre in Toronto/Tkaronto. It will be a full evening of poetry and dance shows, around 1.5 hours long. I was curated by the wonderful poet/dancer Charles C Smith to be a part of this lineup with my 4 part spoken word and dance show "Daughter of Geppetto" which was a workshop hit with Peterborough's Emergency Dance Series. I'm so excited to be remounting it with dancer Sze-Yang Ade-Lam and visual artist Emmie Tsumura. I can't wait for you all to see it! Here's the link and some more info
https://www.citadelcie.com/event/allies-and-friends-april-edition/?fbclid=IwAR2iLv_UY9eu4QQYy80BH-OQc9o1Qb1JIm-uBGHK5oYej-5sHzjz53nGKFw
WIND IN THE LEAVES COLLECTIVE PRESENTSallies and friends (April Edition)Featuring works by Heidi Strauss, Charlie Petch, Shannon Litzenberger/Ceinwen Gobert, Mayumi Lashbrook, BaKari Lindsay/Tereka Tyler-Davis, Kevin A. Ormsby, Morgyn Aronyk-Schell
With performances by Heidi Strauss, Charlie Petch, Shannon Litzenberger/Ceinwen Gobert, Mayumi Lashbrook with charles c. smith, Kevin A. Ormsby, Morgyn Aronyk-Schell with Mayumi Lashbrook
https://www.citadelcie.com/event/allies-and-friends-april-edition/?fbclid=IwAR2iLv_UY9eu4QQYy80BH-OQc9o1Qb1JIm-uBGHK5oYej-5sHzjz53nGKFw
WIND IN THE LEAVES COLLECTIVE PRESENTSallies and friends (April Edition)Featuring works by Heidi Strauss, Charlie Petch, Shannon Litzenberger/Ceinwen Gobert, Mayumi Lashbrook, BaKari Lindsay/Tereka Tyler-Davis, Kevin A. Ormsby, Morgyn Aronyk-Schell
With performances by Heidi Strauss, Charlie Petch, Shannon Litzenberger/Ceinwen Gobert, Mayumi Lashbrook with charles c. smith, Kevin A. Ormsby, Morgyn Aronyk-Schell with Mayumi Lashbrook
The Great Panorama, Online collaborative show with Janice Jo Lee, April 3rd, 8pm EST - Pre-register to join us!
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Using music, spoken word, & soundscape, award winning artists & roommates Janice Jo Lee & Charlie Petch mark this moment in time with you. A free event, sponsored by Green College, we are also taking donations for aid in Ukraine. Sunday April 3rd 8-9pm EST. Pre-register for Zoom link in bios.
You are invited to a Zoom meeting. When: Apr 3, 2022 08:00 PM Montreal Register in advance for this meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUkcO2oqDouG9YxBc6AUrYPxo1kSSiMFoqL After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. |
Antler River Poetry, Wed Mar 23, 7pm EST, online and free!
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Very honoured to be a part of Antler River's poetry and performance series (formally Poetry London) and to share the stage with such excellent poets. I am crafting a lovely, funny and emotional set for you all and I hope you join us.
This month, we're excited to host feature poets @sawpoet and @salan_jotli, as well as local opener @JHMustapha! Wed March 23 at 7:00pm EDT LIVE ZOOM event FREE w/ registration here: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_NqoFo5bDT8Gy6fEpAUK7XQ… Join us for fantastic online poetry |
My new play "no one's special at the hot dog cart" workshop debut, March 20th at Theatre Passe Muraille, 730 pm
"Everything I needed to know about emergency health care, I learned as a teenage hot dog vendor in downtown Toronto."
Award winning playwright and spoken word performer Charlie Petch tells true stories from their past as a 911 operator, hospital bed allocator, emergency room clerk, and street worker. No one’s special at the hot dog cart is filled with busking performance, novelty instruments, tragicomedy, lessons in de-escalation technique, and a deep appreciation of street communities. What do you like on your hot dog? | In Person March 20th at 7:30pm|
Workshopped with Donna Michelle St Bernard & Adam Lazarus, with the Theatre Passe Muraille “The Buzz” series. Special thanks to the Ontario Arts Council.
Content Warnings:
Loud noises
Not Recommended for children under 14
Strong Language
Descriptions of violence
*Hot Dog Cart sculpture by Cat Schembri
Learn More Get tickets
Award winning playwright and spoken word performer Charlie Petch tells true stories from their past as a 911 operator, hospital bed allocator, emergency room clerk, and street worker. No one’s special at the hot dog cart is filled with busking performance, novelty instruments, tragicomedy, lessons in de-escalation technique, and a deep appreciation of street communities. What do you like on your hot dog? | In Person March 20th at 7:30pm|
Workshopped with Donna Michelle St Bernard & Adam Lazarus, with the Theatre Passe Muraille “The Buzz” series. Special thanks to the Ontario Arts Council.
Content Warnings:
Loud noises
Not Recommended for children under 14
Strong Language
Descriptions of violence
*Hot Dog Cart sculpture by Cat Schembri
Learn More Get tickets
Five Poets, Online Performance, March 9th, 7pm EST
So excited to be a part of FIVE POETS, a free online event featuring Ellen Chang-Richardson, Tyler Pennock, Charlie Petch, Andrea Thompson, and Jennifer Hosein. This event is generously funded by the League of Canadian Poets.
These poets are each utter legends and I am honoured to be a part of this lineup curated by the wonderful Jennifer Hosein. I would honestly go to it even if I wasn't in the lineup. Don't miss out!
Please register by clicking the JOIN EVENT button or via this link:
https://us02web.zoom.us/.../tZIqduyhrzMpGNJ3LaT1kRXZ...
These poets are each utter legends and I am honoured to be a part of this lineup curated by the wonderful Jennifer Hosein. I would honestly go to it even if I wasn't in the lineup. Don't miss out!
Please register by clicking the JOIN EVENT button or via this link:
https://us02web.zoom.us/.../tZIqduyhrzMpGNJ3LaT1kRXZ...
Intro to Online & In Person Performance for Poets, Thurs March 3rd, 6pm EST - 730pm
Very excited to be offering part 1 of a 2 part performance workshop with Janice Lee, thanks to the The League of Canadian Poets. In part 1 I will be doing a 101 for anyone who is a performer, or who just wants to do better readings online and in person. I'll give you the tools for this, including walking you through a microphone and stand. Find all the ways to do your best whenever you read from the page or perform memorized work onstage. This workshop is for you! Part 2, is Janice's play in performance workshop. Take them both and see all you can do! Here is the Facebook Link or click Here to pre register directly. It will be held ONLINE for free!
Collaborative show with Janice Jo Lee, Thurs Jan 27th, Green College 5-630 pm PST (BC)
- Charlie Petch, multidisciplinary artist; Janice Jo Lee, folk-soul singer and songwriter; hosted by Margaret Christakos, inaugural Meredith and Peter Quartermain Poet in Residence and the 18th Writer in Residence at Green College
Livestreamed via Zoom
Thursday, January 27, 5-6:30 pm PST, 8pm EST
in the series
Distance as a Keeping: Meredith and Peter Quartermain Poet in Residence - Join Zoom Meeting
https://ubc.zoom.us/j/65080637023?pwd=RllHUVFTK2NGWGlNQzFVNk1CbnFFZz09
Meeting ID: 650 8063 7023
Passcode: 126287
Join us for a unique collaborative 50-minute performance designed for the occasion by Charlie Petch and Janice Jo Lee, two innovative multivocal performers-now-roomates who each engage with lyric-poetic spoken word and song, queer/drag cabaret, instrumental interludes, vocal loops and projections, exploring solo and polyvocal capacities. Taking up themes of Distance as Keeping, they will share a pandemic-busting live show from their own domestic space. Followed by some collective sound-making and discussion.
Distance as a Keeping is a series curated and hosted by Margaret Christakos, the inaugural Meredith and Peter Quartermain Poet in Residence and the 18th Writer in Residence at Green College. This series features three creative public events featuring talks/performances by special guest artists on themes of mutual attention, solo/polyvocality, embodied apartness and tactical spaciousness.
Loop Pedal Workshop, Regina Word Up, Mon Jan 31st, 7 to 9pm CST, Free Online!
I am so happy to be designing this new workshop for Regina Word Up. In the workshop, I'll show you how to create your own loops, how to build your own music and also speak on the importance of mixing vocals and instrumental arrangements in a way that is specific to the enjoyment of Spoken Word.
Of course I'll be doing some numbers for you that I find really fun and creative. You don't need to have a loop pedal to join, just a willingness to learn, to have fun and to possibly find a new passion. Ditch the band! Become your own one person show with all the tools I can give you.
Loop Pedal Lessons for Performance Poets with Charlie Petch
Monday, January 31, 7:00-9:00 p.m. (Saskatchewan time) Find your time zone here: https://dateful.com/time-zone-converter
Free, via Zoom
Please register: https://us02web.zoom.us/.../tZIucOusrTosHNWPFZw7DrhpEZxgR...
Of course I'll be doing some numbers for you that I find really fun and creative. You don't need to have a loop pedal to join, just a willingness to learn, to have fun and to possibly find a new passion. Ditch the band! Become your own one person show with all the tools I can give you.
Loop Pedal Lessons for Performance Poets with Charlie Petch
Monday, January 31, 7:00-9:00 p.m. (Saskatchewan time) Find your time zone here: https://dateful.com/time-zone-converter
Free, via Zoom
Please register: https://us02web.zoom.us/.../tZIucOusrTosHNWPFZw7DrhpEZxgR...
Single Onion, Calgary's Monthly Poetry Event Feature, Nov 18th, 7pm MST. Online, free.
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Join me for a really wonderful lineup of poets and writers for Single Onion, a monthly show based in Calgary (now online) with Shelf Life Books. Look at these wonderful co stars! Vivian Hansen, Dymphny Dronyk, Pam Medland, Kirk Miles and myself.
Follow them on twitter @singleonion the link should be posted there, on their website https://thesingleonion.wordpress.com or on facebook for the links |
Riverbed Reading Series, Multidisciplinary Features, Wed Nov 24th, 7:30pm EDT, online and in person
- FB event page: S2: iteration three
- Where online viewers can sign up to attend via Zoom: Riverbed website
- Where interested parties can donate to our series: GoFundMe campaign
- iteration three of Riverbed is always dedicated to performers who blur the edges of genre. This month, we are very excited to have three talented performers join us - two in person and one via livestream.
Come out to see and hear from Aymara Alvarado Sánchez, Charlie Petch and Grant Wilkins at Club SAW, or tune in online via Zoom. Sign up for our newsletter to get all the details: https://bit.ly/RiverbedSignUp
ABOUT THE PERFORMERS
Aymara Alvarado Sánchez was born into a lineage of artists in Mexico City. Inspired by her father, who taught her music improvisation. She combines multidisciplinary techniques through visual arts, music production, performance art, connecting with Indigenous ceremonies expanding her vision, developing her avant-garde style by interfering in the catharsis of human emotions to take the viewer out of the comfort zone, cutting through the dogmas of society. Recent projects include arts programming, arts events and the community.
Charlie Petch (they/them, he/him) is a disabled/queer/transmasculine multidisciplinary artist who resides in Tkaronto/Toronto. A poet, playwright, librettist, musician, lighting designer, and host, Petch was the 2017 Poet of Honour for SpeakNorth, and winner of the Golden Beret lifetime achievement in spoken word with The League of Canadian Poets (2020). Most recently, their first full-length poetry collection "Why I Was Late" is out with Brick Books, and their libretto "Medusa's Children" with Opera QTO. www.charliecpetch.com
Grant Wilkins is an occasional printer, papermaker and poet from Ottawa whose writing has appeared in ARC, Train: a poetry journal and BafterC magazine, amongst other places. In 2020 he published "Literary Type" with nOIR:Z, and his sequence “Roman Alphabet: Readings and Translations” won Exile’s Gwendolyn MacEwen Poetry Competition. Grant has degrees in History & Classical Civilization and in English, and he likes ink, paper, letters, sounds and words, and combinations thereof.
Theatre Passe Muraille - Beyond Walls, Nov 25th to 28th - Move with us Nov 25, 26th - Improvised music for movement
After a year-long shutdown, our staff came together to explore the new possibilities of our venue. What do we do collectively in the theatre that makes the experience so special? How can a theatre become a space of healing? What is it about this venue that we love, that we want the community to experience as well? What does it mean to return and to re-open?
In anticipation of the theatre reopening we present Beyond Walls — a staff led initiative to welcome our community back inside the theatre, and to re-physicalize and reconnect with the space! Each 1 hour programs are curated and facilitated by TPM staff.
There will not be more than 25 people in the venue at once, so if you are someone who is uncomfortable to return to live theatre, but really miss being in the venue, we hope this provides a safe space for you. We will also have different coloured bracelets that you can wear to indicate your comfort level with interactions. *Make sure to read our Covid-19 protocols before signing up!
As we open our doors again, join Indrit, Régine, Cody, and Angela as we reintroduce our bodies to our theatre space. Audiences are invited to join in or observe our dancers as we softly groove to low-impact, repetitive movements set to live music by Charlie Petch. The movement and the music is an opportunity to connect our spirit worlds and synchronize our bodies, minds, and spirits as we move closer towards feeling like a whole community again.
– A total of 4 sessions are available each day. Each session will be 45 min long and there will be a maximum of 10 participants per session.
– ASL Interpretation will be available in-person for November 26, 7pm EST
– There will be chairs available in the space for breaks and/or observation.
– Please note: a photographer will be on site on November 26, 5pm EST
In anticipation of the theatre reopening we present Beyond Walls — a staff led initiative to welcome our community back inside the theatre, and to re-physicalize and reconnect with the space! Each 1 hour programs are curated and facilitated by TPM staff.
There will not be more than 25 people in the venue at once, so if you are someone who is uncomfortable to return to live theatre, but really miss being in the venue, we hope this provides a safe space for you. We will also have different coloured bracelets that you can wear to indicate your comfort level with interactions. *Make sure to read our Covid-19 protocols before signing up!
As we open our doors again, join Indrit, Régine, Cody, and Angela as we reintroduce our bodies to our theatre space. Audiences are invited to join in or observe our dancers as we softly groove to low-impact, repetitive movements set to live music by Charlie Petch. The movement and the music is an opportunity to connect our spirit worlds and synchronize our bodies, minds, and spirits as we move closer towards feeling like a whole community again.
– A total of 4 sessions are available each day. Each session will be 45 min long and there will be a maximum of 10 participants per session.
– ASL Interpretation will be available in-person for November 26, 7pm EST
– There will be chairs available in the space for breaks and/or observation.
– Please note: a photographer will be on site on November 26, 5pm EST
Book Signing at Glad Day, Nov 26th, 11:30 to 1pm, drop in, buy a book or bring one to be signed.
Dear loves,
I'm so happy if you've gotten my book, bring it to Glad Day to have it signed! I'll be inside and outside and hope you come say hello. If you've not gotten a book already, it's a great place to shop and you'll find not only, amazing books from 2SLGBTQPIA+ authors, but also, sweet items, jewelry, gay candles, gay camping badges and they have delicious food!
I know they are getting a shipment of 35 books from Brick, so there will be ones in stock.
I'm so proud that they agreed to be my principal bookseller and hope you come by and I'd love to show you my fave place to be in Toronto.
Regina Word Up, Feature and more, Nov 3rd, in person event 7pm CST
Regina Word Up Open Mic featuring Charlie Petch
Date: Wednesday, November 3, 2021
Time: 7:00-9:00 pm (SK time), doors open at 6:30 pm
Location: The Artesian, 2627 13th Ave, Regina, SK
Price: Recommended donation of $5 or pay what you can. (Cash)
*Free if you perform!
* Sign up at the door.
* First come, first served.
* Space limited.
The Artesian is a fully licensed, all-ages, and wheel-chair accessible facility located in the heart of Regina’s Cathedral Neighbourhood.
Please note: In accordance with The Artesian’s policies and the Government of Saskatchewan’s public health orders, Regina Word Up requires proof of double vaccination or a negative test dated within 72 hours, along with ID, at our events. Masks are required. We encourage physical distancing.
Please see policies here --
The Artesian: https://artesianon13th.ca/pages/covid-safety
Gov of Sask: https://www.saskatchewan.ca/.../public-health-orders...
Additional covid precautions:
*Each performer gets their own microphone.
* Virtual feature performer to minimize travel
Date: Wednesday, November 3, 2021
Time: 7:00-9:00 pm (SK time), doors open at 6:30 pm
Location: The Artesian, 2627 13th Ave, Regina, SK
Price: Recommended donation of $5 or pay what you can. (Cash)
*Free if you perform!
* Sign up at the door.
* First come, first served.
* Space limited.
The Artesian is a fully licensed, all-ages, and wheel-chair accessible facility located in the heart of Regina’s Cathedral Neighbourhood.
Please note: In accordance with The Artesian’s policies and the Government of Saskatchewan’s public health orders, Regina Word Up requires proof of double vaccination or a negative test dated within 72 hours, along with ID, at our events. Masks are required. We encourage physical distancing.
Please see policies here --
The Artesian: https://artesianon13th.ca/pages/covid-safety
Gov of Sask: https://www.saskatchewan.ca/.../public-health-orders...
Additional covid precautions:
*Each performer gets their own microphone.
* Virtual feature performer to minimize travel
Book Club, Brick Books for "Why I Was Late" Oct 20th, 8pm EST, Zoom
In this book club session, join Charlie Petch for a Q&A, spoken word exercise, and reading of their new book! Price includes a copy of Why I Was Late with free shipping.
Link to this specific book sale/book club order is here www.brickbooks.ca/books/bookclubsession1fall2021/
Workshop: Empowering Embarrassment
From Charlie Petch: “Like so many of us dreamers, weirdos, and book nerds, I have been bullied. In this exercise, I will invite the group to find that love for that thing you are expected to be embarrassed about. For me, being a poet, being a performer, and being an out trans person in this world means I need to send extra love to those things that make me different. Let’s have a moment and see where that spark takes us poetically and creatively.”
Time: October 20, 8 pm EST.
Location: Zoom. You will receive the link via email after you’ve purchased.
Books: A copy of your book will be sent out very soon after purchase.
Link to this specific book sale/book club order is here www.brickbooks.ca/books/bookclubsession1fall2021/
Workshop: Empowering Embarrassment
From Charlie Petch: “Like so many of us dreamers, weirdos, and book nerds, I have been bullied. In this exercise, I will invite the group to find that love for that thing you are expected to be embarrassed about. For me, being a poet, being a performer, and being an out trans person in this world means I need to send extra love to those things that make me different. Let’s have a moment and see where that spark takes us poetically and creatively.”
Time: October 20, 8 pm EST.
Location: Zoom. You will receive the link via email after you’ve purchased.
Books: A copy of your book will be sent out very soon after purchase.
Victoria Spoken Word - Tongues of Fire, feature and open mic, Wed Oct 20th, 9pm EDT
Looking very forward to our show together. One of my fave places for poetry has been doing a great job of moving online and I hope you join us at
Tongues of Fire is our spoken word open mic that happens three times a month on the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Wednesdays of the month.
You'll hear (up to) 5-minute sets from (up to) 12 performers,
plus a 25-minute set from our featured poet.
To sign up for the open mic, between 4:30-7:30 PM on the day, email Julia at juliaalbanocrockford[at]gmail[dot]com with your stage name and “ToF open mic” in the subject line.
12 spots, 5 minute max please including banter-
First come, first served!
For the link, find it on their fb event, it will be posted 1 hour before. I'll try to also post on twitter @sawpoet https://www.facebook.com/events/252222380188061/?active_tab=discussion
Tongues of Fire is our spoken word open mic that happens three times a month on the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Wednesdays of the month.
You'll hear (up to) 5-minute sets from (up to) 12 performers,
plus a 25-minute set from our featured poet.
To sign up for the open mic, between 4:30-7:30 PM on the day, email Julia at juliaalbanocrockford[at]gmail[dot]com with your stage name and “ToF open mic” in the subject line.
12 spots, 5 minute max please including banter-
First come, first served!
For the link, find it on their fb event, it will be posted 1 hour before. I'll try to also post on twitter @sawpoet https://www.facebook.com/events/252222380188061/?active_tab=discussion
Winnebago a go go tour - Outdoor Book Launch, Grey Gallery, Owen Sound, Sat Oct 23rd, 2 to 4pm Free but RSVP to ensure a seat
One of my fave places to do art is Owen Sound and I'm super happy to be featuring alongside their Poet Laureate - Richard Yves Sitoski for a little outdoor book launch. Come, bring a chair if you can, we'll have some there, keep your masks on unless seated (double vax event) We can't wait to have you join on the sanitized open mic and/or just enjoy a wonderful live performance with music, poetry and Shenanigans. Here's a bio for dear Rico -
Richard-Yves Sitoski (he/him) is the 2019-2022 Poet Laureate of Owen Sound, on the territory of the Saugeen Ojibway Nation. His poems have appeared or are forthcoming in The Fiddlehead, The Maynard, Bywords.ca, in the League of Canadian Poets' Poetry Pause, and as part of Brick Books' Brickyard video series. Best of the Net nominee 2021. His latest book is No Sleep ‘til Eden, an augmented reality multimedia collection of poems on the environment.
Richard-Yves Sitoski (he/him) is the 2019-2022 Poet Laureate of Owen Sound, on the territory of the Saugeen Ojibway Nation. His poems have appeared or are forthcoming in The Fiddlehead, The Maynard, Bywords.ca, in the League of Canadian Poets' Poetry Pause, and as part of Brick Books' Brickyard video series. Best of the Net nominee 2021. His latest book is No Sleep ‘til Eden, an augmented reality multimedia collection of poems on the environment.
Winnebago a Go Go Tour - Flesherton, outdoor book launch w. Charlie Glasspool
Whaaat? Ok this is just too much fun for just one Charlie, so I've asked my bandmate (The Silverhearts) Charlie Glasspool to join us. It will be in the backyard at 72 Ellen St in Flesherton from 2pm to 4pm for your listening pleasure. Please RSVP to guarantee a spot. We'll have precautions in place, please come with a mask and a chair, and if you don't have either, we'll have them for you. Open mic too. Meet (other) Charlie
Many well-known & respected artists have sang Charles Glasspool's songs; Juno award winner Serena Ryder, Andre Ethier, & Canadian chanteuse Lilly Frost to name a few. He was a member of the critically lauded band the Burning Hell and a contributing songwriter & performer with the Silver Hearts. Mr. Glasspool teaches elementary school, looks silly when he dances, & has a penchant for tight slacks.
Many well-known & respected artists have sang Charles Glasspool's songs; Juno award winner Serena Ryder, Andre Ethier, & Canadian chanteuse Lilly Frost to name a few. He was a member of the critically lauded band the Burning Hell and a contributing songwriter & performer with the Silver Hearts. Mr. Glasspool teaches elementary school, looks silly when he dances, & has a penchant for tight slacks.
Toronto International Festival of Authors, interview with myself & Theresa Estacion, Oct 27th 9pm EDT, online
Incredibly honoured to be a part of TIFA this year! I'm very much looking forward to reading Theresa's book, (c'mon mail order) and hearing all she has to say. Of course this festival is full of superstars and wonderful workshops, interviews, performances and readings. Pre register now! Get your calendars marked with your top picks. Click here to see this event and hit "Festival" to see the entire lineup
Join Toronto writers Therese Estacion and Charlie Petch for an evening of poetry and conversation. Their debut collections are an intimate portrayal and exploration of disability, gender and identity. Estacion’s Phantompains is a visceral, surreal collection dealing with loss and grief, inspired by Filipino horror and folktales, Petch’s Why I Was Late fuses text and performance to a decades long trans/masculine coming-of-age story, finding heroes in unexpected places. With beautiful prose and humour, these poets hold nothing back.
Join Toronto writers Therese Estacion and Charlie Petch for an evening of poetry and conversation. Their debut collections are an intimate portrayal and exploration of disability, gender and identity. Estacion’s Phantompains is a visceral, surreal collection dealing with loss and grief, inspired by Filipino horror and folktales, Petch’s Why I Was Late fuses text and performance to a decades long trans/masculine coming-of-age story, finding heroes in unexpected places. With beautiful prose and humour, these poets hold nothing back.
Saskatoon Writer's Guild Conference, Workshop online, Oct 19th 12-1pm MDT (2pm EDT)
The SWG Annual Conference and AGM are planned for October 18-23, 2021. The theme of our conference is Resonance, which speaks to the idea that, in this moment in time, we are connected by the shared experience of being writers, and that we are living through a moment of time that evokes a response although we are rich and varied in our personal experiences.
Pre register here skwriter.com/events-and-workshops/annual-conferenceagm
I will be a part of the "Small Talks" series -
Charlie will take you through some of the history of spoken word and how it has become a vehicle for resistance and authentic living. He will discuss performance skills and share tips and tricks for any public performance.
“I was born with a severe lateral lisp and was a little transmasc kid who was always told how I looked and sounded were wrong. So many of us are told to be quieter, because of what we say, or how we say it. Resisting that, speaking up, is resistance. Unabashedly speaking our minds is how we change the world.”
Pre register here skwriter.com/events-and-workshops/annual-conferenceagm
I will be a part of the "Small Talks" series -
Charlie will take you through some of the history of spoken word and how it has become a vehicle for resistance and authentic living. He will discuss performance skills and share tips and tricks for any public performance.
“I was born with a severe lateral lisp and was a little transmasc kid who was always told how I looked and sounded were wrong. So many of us are told to be quieter, because of what we say, or how we say it. Resisting that, speaking up, is resistance. Unabashedly speaking our minds is how we change the world.”
Online Book Launch with Shelf Life Books, Calgary, Oct 17th, 7pm to 8:30pm MDT/ 9pm EDT
Online on Tuesday October 19, 2021 | 7:00PM - 8:30PM
Join us for the virtual launch of Charlie Petch's Why I Was Late(Brick Books). Charlie will be joined by Sheri-D Wilson.
This event will take place on Zoom. Please register here: https://us06web.zoom.us/.../tZIqcOGgqTMtH9XpaXaxA...
Why I Was Late fuses text with performance, brings a transmasculine wisdom, humour, and experience to bear upon tailgates, spaceships, and wrestling rings. Fierce, tender, convention re-inventing—Petch works hard. And whether it's as a film union lighting technician, a hospital bed allocator, a Toronto hot dog vendor, or a performer/player of the musical saw, the work is survival. Heroes are found in unexpected places, elevated by both large and small gestures of kindness, accountability and acceptance. No subject—grief, disability, kink, sexuality, gender politics, violence—is off limits.
A poet so good at drag they had everyone convinced that they were a woman for the first forty years of their life, Petch has somehow brought the stage and its attendant thrills into the book. Better late than. And better.
Hosted by - Sheri-D Wilson (aka Mama of Dada) is the award-winning author of 13 books, creator of 4 short films, and 4 albums, which combine music and poetry. Known for her electric performance-style and surrealist perspective, she is a favourite of festivals around the world - Canada, USA, UK, France, Spain, Belgium, Mexico, and South Africa.
Join us for the virtual launch of Charlie Petch's Why I Was Late(Brick Books). Charlie will be joined by Sheri-D Wilson.
This event will take place on Zoom. Please register here: https://us06web.zoom.us/.../tZIqcOGgqTMtH9XpaXaxA...
Why I Was Late fuses text with performance, brings a transmasculine wisdom, humour, and experience to bear upon tailgates, spaceships, and wrestling rings. Fierce, tender, convention re-inventing—Petch works hard. And whether it's as a film union lighting technician, a hospital bed allocator, a Toronto hot dog vendor, or a performer/player of the musical saw, the work is survival. Heroes are found in unexpected places, elevated by both large and small gestures of kindness, accountability and acceptance. No subject—grief, disability, kink, sexuality, gender politics, violence—is off limits.
A poet so good at drag they had everyone convinced that they were a woman for the first forty years of their life, Petch has somehow brought the stage and its attendant thrills into the book. Better late than. And better.
Hosted by - Sheri-D Wilson (aka Mama of Dada) is the award-winning author of 13 books, creator of 4 short films, and 4 albums, which combine music and poetry. Known for her electric performance-style and surrealist perspective, she is a favourite of festivals around the world - Canada, USA, UK, France, Spain, Belgium, Mexico, and South Africa.
Winnebago a go go tour - Back 40 Book Launch Sat Oct 16th- Prince Edward County, 2-4pm 1068 Salem Rd, Consecon
You're invited for an outdoor book launch with authors Charlie Petch & Zoe Whittall and there will also be a little open mic for local talent! We are both launching new books, myself, a poetry book with Brick Books called "Why I Was Late", and Zoe is launching the already internationally embraced "The Spectacular.
We're eager to share our work with you, have some fun times with the musical saw, the ukulele and the viola and you all. There will be books for sale and this is very important - YOU MUST RSVP - as we want to do this outdoor gig but also be careful with masks, and spacing.
RSVP to me at [email protected] to save a seat.
We're eager to share our work with you, have some fun times with the musical saw, the ukulele and the viola and you all. There will be books for sale and this is very important - YOU MUST RSVP - as we want to do this outdoor gig but also be careful with masks, and spacing.
RSVP to me at [email protected] to save a seat.
Tonight It's Poetry, feature and open mic, Sun Oct 10th 7pm MDT, 9pm EDT, Online tickets $5 to $10 (no one turned away for lack of funds)
Tonight it's Poetry is pleased to present Charlie Petch returning to the TiP Virtual stage in celebration of their new book "Why I was Late" live on the TiP zoom Sunday, October 10th 7 PM CST
Tonight it's Poetry acknowledges that this event is based in Treaty Six Territory and the homeland of the Metis.
All are welcome to take the mic at our virtual open stage, we offer a safe space for all poets, storytellers and spoken word artists to ply their craft and share their words. We ask that you limit your performances to 5 minutes out of consideration for others. We understand that poetry is a medium for free expression but do not have any room for hate.
We would like to thank SKArts for funding us and helping keep the spoken word alive in Saskatchewan.
Admission is by donation suggested donation $5-10. Nobody turned away for lack of funds. Thank you for your support.
Find out more via the facebook event for tickets and the links, or email me [email protected] if you don't have facebook - https://www.facebook.com/events/248526007283800?ref=newsfeed
Tonight it's Poetry acknowledges that this event is based in Treaty Six Territory and the homeland of the Metis.
All are welcome to take the mic at our virtual open stage, we offer a safe space for all poets, storytellers and spoken word artists to ply their craft and share their words. We ask that you limit your performances to 5 minutes out of consideration for others. We understand that poetry is a medium for free expression but do not have any room for hate.
We would like to thank SKArts for funding us and helping keep the spoken word alive in Saskatchewan.
Admission is by donation suggested donation $5-10. Nobody turned away for lack of funds. Thank you for your support.
Find out more via the facebook event for tickets and the links, or email me [email protected] if you don't have facebook - https://www.facebook.com/events/248526007283800?ref=newsfeed
Peterborough Pride! A rotating show, in person and online with 2 other amazing artists, Thurs Sep 23rd, 7, 8 and 9pm est.
Live! In-Person and Online - DM or Email us for Tickets (details below)
Peterborough Pride - 3 Artists / 3 Shows - Artspace Peterborough: September 23rd, 2021 @ 7:00 pm, 8:00 pm & 9:00 pm.
Livestreamed at 8:00 pm on IGTV @PeterboroughPoetry Hosted by the Peterborough Poetry Slam
$5-20 Sliding Scale; No one turned away for lack of funds.
OK! Here we go... Happy PRIDE!!!
We are excited to announce our first in-person show in almost two years! 3 poets, performing 10 minutes each of poetry, 3 times over the course of the night to small audiences (10 people maximum per show). Join us for the amazing poetic stylings of Charlie C Petch and Carlo José Quinones as well as comedy by Muna Ahmed!
As Artspace will be operating as a venue, all attendees must be masked, distanced, and need to be fully vaccinated (two doses plus 14 days) as well as provide proof of vaccination to enter the venue. Each show will run for half an hour and the space will be thoroughly cleaned between sets. Contact tracing will also be in effect. Have a question, please ask. We're all figuring this out as we go.
First come, first serve! DM us or Email us at [email protected] to reserve seats we will respond as quickly as we can. Please indicate your preferred time and number of seats in your request. Payments will be accepted by e-transfer or we can accept cash at the door with prior arrangement. Please arrive 10 minutes before the show and be on time as we will be on a tight schedule.
Get to know your features: (I omitted mine of course, you already know ;)
Muna Ahmed is a community organizer and occasional stand up based in Nogojiwanong. She holds a BA Honors in English with a concentration in African American Studies from Howard University and is one of the founding members of BLM Nogojiwanong.
Carlo José Quinones is a queer filipinx cebuano diaspora babe who’s been living and adapting and dining in Treaty 20/Williams Treaty Territory: Nogojiwanong Peterborough for almost 9 years. A child of a live-in-caregiver; they’re mother is also a flower gardener and a harmony visualist. Carlo is the child of a painter and a drunkard; they’re father is powerful ritualist and observer of the world. Born in 1996 and raised by they’re grandmother, Carlo waters her plants in the afternoon. Carlo is a descendant of their grandfather who worked in the ocean and a practicer of distance nurturance. Carlo’s poetry is a mix of prayer, belonging, and emotional cadence. It touches on ancestral queerness, diaspora blues, and dreams of the collective and environmental place home.
Peterborough Pride - 3 Artists / 3 Shows - Artspace Peterborough: September 23rd, 2021 @ 7:00 pm, 8:00 pm & 9:00 pm.
Livestreamed at 8:00 pm on IGTV @PeterboroughPoetry Hosted by the Peterborough Poetry Slam
$5-20 Sliding Scale; No one turned away for lack of funds.
OK! Here we go... Happy PRIDE!!!
We are excited to announce our first in-person show in almost two years! 3 poets, performing 10 minutes each of poetry, 3 times over the course of the night to small audiences (10 people maximum per show). Join us for the amazing poetic stylings of Charlie C Petch and Carlo José Quinones as well as comedy by Muna Ahmed!
As Artspace will be operating as a venue, all attendees must be masked, distanced, and need to be fully vaccinated (two doses plus 14 days) as well as provide proof of vaccination to enter the venue. Each show will run for half an hour and the space will be thoroughly cleaned between sets. Contact tracing will also be in effect. Have a question, please ask. We're all figuring this out as we go.
First come, first serve! DM us or Email us at [email protected] to reserve seats we will respond as quickly as we can. Please indicate your preferred time and number of seats in your request. Payments will be accepted by e-transfer or we can accept cash at the door with prior arrangement. Please arrive 10 minutes before the show and be on time as we will be on a tight schedule.
Get to know your features: (I omitted mine of course, you already know ;)
Muna Ahmed is a community organizer and occasional stand up based in Nogojiwanong. She holds a BA Honors in English with a concentration in African American Studies from Howard University and is one of the founding members of BLM Nogojiwanong.
Carlo José Quinones is a queer filipinx cebuano diaspora babe who’s been living and adapting and dining in Treaty 20/Williams Treaty Territory: Nogojiwanong Peterborough for almost 9 years. A child of a live-in-caregiver; they’re mother is also a flower gardener and a harmony visualist. Carlo is the child of a painter and a drunkard; they’re father is powerful ritualist and observer of the world. Born in 1996 and raised by they’re grandmother, Carlo waters her plants in the afternoon. Carlo is a descendant of their grandfather who worked in the ocean and a practicer of distance nurturance. Carlo’s poetry is a mix of prayer, belonging, and emotional cadence. It touches on ancestral queerness, diaspora blues, and dreams of the collective and environmental place home.
Vancouver Poetry Slam Feature, online Monday Sept 27th 11pm EST, sliding scale for tickets
After a long hiatus The Vancouver Poetry Slam is back, online!About this eventCome share your words & magic and as a bonus, compete for cash prizes. Also compete for a chance to battle a Slam legend head to head live (details on this coming soon) If you're like me you've missed this gathering of community terribly, so let's get together once again. Speaking of legends, our first feature for this fall series is the one & only Charlie Petch!! Click on the eventbrite link to register for the show. Sliding scale available for tickets. https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/vancouver-poetry-slam-featuring-charlie-petch-tickets-176506193777?aff=ebdssbeac
Online Open Mic & Feature, with Owen Sound Poet Laureate series. Thursday 3pm EDT - Free & link below
I have been going regularly to this online series and just adore the group that joins. I'm so happy to be featuring thanks to Rico for inviting me and to the League of Canadian Poets for supporting this event. Here's the deets!
Welcome to our reading series and open mic!
We feature a headliner who does two 10-minute sets and we guarantee a spot to everyone who wishes to share their work with us. It's anything goes; we just ask that you be respectful of our various communities and be mindful of content/triggers. Hope to see you there!
Today we have a special treat -- spoken word legend Charlie Petch, who has just published one of the books of the year, Why I Was Late, with Brick Books!
Zoom info:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82730885917...
Meeting ID: 827 3088 5917
Passcode: 124343
Welcome to our reading series and open mic!
We feature a headliner who does two 10-minute sets and we guarantee a spot to everyone who wishes to share their work with us. It's anything goes; we just ask that you be respectful of our various communities and be mindful of content/triggers. Hope to see you there!
Today we have a special treat -- spoken word legend Charlie Petch, who has just published one of the books of the year, Why I Was Late, with Brick Books!
Zoom info:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82730885917...
Meeting ID: 827 3088 5917
Passcode: 124343
My Book Launch with Brick Books, hosted by Theatre Passe Muraille, Sun Sept 19th 7 to 9pm
I can't wait to work with the lovely people at Theatre Passe Muraille and musicians Polly Vernon of 8Knows8 and the endlessly talented trumpet player Rudy Ray to do a gorgeous launch of my offering to the world. Register to be in the audience through this Eventbrite Link which is free but I ask that if you can, please make a donation to the Indian Residential School Survivors Society. Find out more about this very necessary organization here.
If you don't make it into the Zoom event, no worries! Theatre Passe Muraille will be livestreaming from their you tube channel
I'm super excited to hold this in my hands, and we are preparing for livestreaming with help from Toronto Lit Up, Theatre Passe Muraille, Toronto Arts Council and Brick Books to do the launch of my damn dreams. Thank you everyone!
I ask that you pre-order my book through your local bookseller or my chosen bookseller Glad Day Bookshop, click here, they deliver! Or if you click on this link to Brick Books, you can choose "Shop Local" and see if it's at an indie bookstore near you.
Love to you all.
If you don't make it into the Zoom event, no worries! Theatre Passe Muraille will be livestreaming from their you tube channel
I'm super excited to hold this in my hands, and we are preparing for livestreaming with help from Toronto Lit Up, Theatre Passe Muraille, Toronto Arts Council and Brick Books to do the launch of my damn dreams. Thank you everyone!
I ask that you pre-order my book through your local bookseller or my chosen bookseller Glad Day Bookshop, click here, they deliver! Or if you click on this link to Brick Books, you can choose "Shop Local" and see if it's at an indie bookstore near you.
Love to you all.
Rockland Poets Feature, Sat Aug 21st, Online, Free, Open mic too, sign up 6:45, show 7 to 9pm EST
Friends, this amazing series in New York State has been a wonderful producer of amazing poets. I will be joining them for their virtual open mic to do some reading from my new book "Why I Was Late". Join us, it's free, just cut and paste these numbers when you open up zoom.
Rockland Poets Open Mic
@rocklandpoets
Zoom Meeting ID : 731 933 3771
Password : 0802020
Mentorship opportunity with Brick Books, deadline Aug 15th
CALL FOR PARTICIPANTS
Mentorship Opportunity For Young Canadian Spoken Word Artists!
Are you a spoken word artist between 18 and 25 years old, looking to improve your writing and performance skills? Brickyard online spoken word showcase is offering opportunities for youth to learn more about spoken word and to polish their craft under the guidance and mentorship of two of Canada’s most talented spoken word artists, Ian Keteku and Charlie C Petch.
Details: Participants in the Brickyard Mentorship Program will be offered 8 hours of online mentorship, guidance, and support by one of our two mentors over a period of four months, sometime between either September–December 2021, or January–April 2022. Specific dates and times will be determined by mentors and participants in order to best fit their schedules.
CLOSED, THANK YOU FOR ALL YOUR SUBMISSIONS, NEWS TO HAPPEN SOON!
Mentorship Opportunity For Young Canadian Spoken Word Artists!
Are you a spoken word artist between 18 and 25 years old, looking to improve your writing and performance skills? Brickyard online spoken word showcase is offering opportunities for youth to learn more about spoken word and to polish their craft under the guidance and mentorship of two of Canada’s most talented spoken word artists, Ian Keteku and Charlie C Petch.
Details: Participants in the Brickyard Mentorship Program will be offered 8 hours of online mentorship, guidance, and support by one of our two mentors over a period of four months, sometime between either September–December 2021, or January–April 2022. Specific dates and times will be determined by mentors and participants in order to best fit their schedules.
CLOSED, THANK YOU FOR ALL YOUR SUBMISSIONS, NEWS TO HAPPEN SOON!
Ongoing - Voices of Trees, a Sound Walk of poetry through High Park, Toronto
This is a wonderful free project which takes you on a poetry walk and I'm so proud to let you know "Daughter of Geppetto, Part IV" is in one of the nicest spots in the park. I really enjoyed taking this trip. If you click here, you can download the Echoes app, and you will hear a selection of original poems read aloud by the poets themselves.
Each poem represents a different location within High Park and encourages visitors to discover spots for quiet contemplation. Inspired by the monumental trees and surrounding landscape, these poems serve as a celebration of the unique features of the area. Voice of Trees High Park is a collaboration between Giovanna Iorio, Michael Rothenberg, Robert Priest and Larry Sawyer.
Poets included in the sound walk:Bill Bisset, Phil Hall, Mark Goldstein, Larry Sawyer, Lina Ramona Vitkauskas, Geoff Bouvier, Dale Smith, Charlie Petch, Jennifer Hosein, Lillian Allen, Robert Priest, John Robert Colombo, Lawrence Bayne, Patrick Connors, Michael Holmes, Honey Novick, Marty Smith, Clifton Joseph
Each poem represents a different location within High Park and encourages visitors to discover spots for quiet contemplation. Inspired by the monumental trees and surrounding landscape, these poems serve as a celebration of the unique features of the area. Voice of Trees High Park is a collaboration between Giovanna Iorio, Michael Rothenberg, Robert Priest and Larry Sawyer.
Poets included in the sound walk:Bill Bisset, Phil Hall, Mark Goldstein, Larry Sawyer, Lina Ramona Vitkauskas, Geoff Bouvier, Dale Smith, Charlie Petch, Jennifer Hosein, Lillian Allen, Robert Priest, John Robert Colombo, Lawrence Bayne, Patrick Connors, Michael Holmes, Honey Novick, Marty Smith, Clifton Joseph
Upcoming for 2021
In 2021 I will be launching an online performance of "Daughter of Geppetto" with Wind in the Leaves Collective date TBA, my Libretto "Medusa's Children" will be launched online as a filmed performance with Opera Q , and my poetry book "Why I Was Late", will be launching with Brick Books in September. Sign up for my newsletter and never miss a debut!
Poetic Skills for Grounding & Growth Workshop with Kai Cheng Thom, a series. Part IV - Coping Practice for Performers Aug 14th 2-4pm EST online
So very honoured to be asked to be a part of this very necessary series curated by Kai Chen Thom with Guelph Spoken word, that also features the workshop artist Kama La Makerel. For the full lineup please click here and to register now for my workshop click here' it does cost 15 per workshop or 50 for all, and there's a sliding scale for accessibility as well.
Workshop Series - Poetic Skills for Grounding and Growth: Join award-winning poet, author, and somatic healer Kai Cheng Thom, MSc, in collaboration with Guelph Spoken Word, for a deep dive into the healing power of poetry. Long before the publishing industry and the poetry slam, word-workers have used the spoken word to access transformation and resilience. The role of poet and artist was intertwined with that of healer and spirit-worker. It's time to take that power back. In this trauma-informed workshop series, participants will learn how to bring body, soul, and spoken word together for personal growth, collective healing, and community building.
The fourth workshop in the series is called Coping Practice for Performers, facilitated by Charlie Petch. As performers we are often told to “leave it all onstage”. Sometimes this propels us into sharing things we are not ready for, or re-traumatization. In this workshop we will have discussions about what we need to take care of ourselves onstage and off. We will also have a writing exercise that is designed to reshape our relationship with what we’ve been told to be embarrassed about. Be ready to engage in, or witness; frank discussion, humour as technique, and coping practices for performance.
Workshop Series - Poetic Skills for Grounding and Growth: Join award-winning poet, author, and somatic healer Kai Cheng Thom, MSc, in collaboration with Guelph Spoken Word, for a deep dive into the healing power of poetry. Long before the publishing industry and the poetry slam, word-workers have used the spoken word to access transformation and resilience. The role of poet and artist was intertwined with that of healer and spirit-worker. It's time to take that power back. In this trauma-informed workshop series, participants will learn how to bring body, soul, and spoken word together for personal growth, collective healing, and community building.
The fourth workshop in the series is called Coping Practice for Performers, facilitated by Charlie Petch. As performers we are often told to “leave it all onstage”. Sometimes this propels us into sharing things we are not ready for, or re-traumatization. In this workshop we will have discussions about what we need to take care of ourselves onstage and off. We will also have a writing exercise that is designed to reshape our relationship with what we’ve been told to be embarrassed about. Be ready to engage in, or witness; frank discussion, humour as technique, and coping practices for performance.
Song & Story Series, Guild Festival Theatre, Sat July 31st Workshop & Show
SO EXCITED FOR MY FIRST OUTDOOR SHOW WITH AN AUDIENCE! I'm all vaxxed up and ready to return and Scarborough's legendary Guild Theatre has an amazing series for young and old alike. It's free (but please register here.
Each day of this weekend festival will feature a different artist doing a workshop in the afternoon at 330pm - I'll be doing a performance workshop for those that fear audiences. Fun icebreaker, some poetry creation then it's your turn on the stage for an open mic and (kind) feedback from me. Then at 730, I do a full hour long performance. I absolutely cannot wait and I hope you join me. Check out each artist and more about Guild Theatre here
Each day of this weekend festival will feature a different artist doing a workshop in the afternoon at 330pm - I'll be doing a performance workshop for those that fear audiences. Fun icebreaker, some poetry creation then it's your turn on the stage for an open mic and (kind) feedback from me. Then at 730, I do a full hour long performance. I absolutely cannot wait and I hope you join me. Check out each artist and more about Guild Theatre here
RC Weslowski's Online World Tour book launch in San José, July 6th, 9pm EST
BOOK LAUNCH: MY SOFT RESPONSE TO THE WARS
My Soft Response To The Wars is the debut poetry collection from Canadian Poetry Slam Champion, RC Weslowski. With a clown’s eye and a trickster’s lip these poems work to rewrite the trauma of childhood sexual abuse with the scissors of surrealism and absurdity. Love and how to survive its loss and transform it into something we can carry forward no matter how wretched, weird and ridiculous it may seem in the aftermath of betrayal is the driving principle in all these poems.
Whether embracing faith through doubt in “Let’s Not Get It Together” or covering himself in grease and blood in the inspirational “It Begins” to the feverish twin exhortations of “I’ve Been Thinking” and “There’s No Fucking Time To Fucking Live” RC Weslowski asks us to follow him into the whirlwind and have whatever mule hair we have left to be blown back into our faces while looking our best in “Dead Horse Mascara.” The poems in this collection invite you to ride the Tilt o Whirl backwards and find your own “P.N.E. Love Affair.” Put a pair of diapers on the ass of your logic and allow it to shit itself and find the meaning beyond the meaning by reveling in the joy and sacrilege of these words -
This event is free - register here https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/rc-weslowskis-online-world-tour-san-jose-california-tickets-160299362709?keep_tld=1
SPECIAL GUESTS
Zofia Rose Musiej
Fernando Raguero
Charlie Petch .
Stephanie Chan
Duncan Shields
Hosted by Mighty Mike McGee, San José coffee drinker, humorist, writer and layabout.
My Soft Response To The Wars is the debut poetry collection from Canadian Poetry Slam Champion, RC Weslowski. With a clown’s eye and a trickster’s lip these poems work to rewrite the trauma of childhood sexual abuse with the scissors of surrealism and absurdity. Love and how to survive its loss and transform it into something we can carry forward no matter how wretched, weird and ridiculous it may seem in the aftermath of betrayal is the driving principle in all these poems.
Whether embracing faith through doubt in “Let’s Not Get It Together” or covering himself in grease and blood in the inspirational “It Begins” to the feverish twin exhortations of “I’ve Been Thinking” and “There’s No Fucking Time To Fucking Live” RC Weslowski asks us to follow him into the whirlwind and have whatever mule hair we have left to be blown back into our faces while looking our best in “Dead Horse Mascara.” The poems in this collection invite you to ride the Tilt o Whirl backwards and find your own “P.N.E. Love Affair.” Put a pair of diapers on the ass of your logic and allow it to shit itself and find the meaning beyond the meaning by reveling in the joy and sacrilege of these words -
This event is free - register here https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/rc-weslowskis-online-world-tour-san-jose-california-tickets-160299362709?keep_tld=1
SPECIAL GUESTS
Zofia Rose Musiej
Fernando Raguero
Charlie Petch .
Stephanie Chan
Duncan Shields
Hosted by Mighty Mike McGee, San José coffee drinker, humorist, writer and layabout.
Iron Gauntlet - Verses Festival, Mon Apr 26th, 9pm Est to 11pm, online.
The Gauntlet has been thrown! Poet legends: RC Weslowski, Charlie C Petch, and Nisha Patel are the Verses 2021 Iron Poets. They have spent centuries training for this moment. They have opened the floor to face challengers from the audience to compete in zainy poetry games. Hosted by Johnny D Trinh and Brad Morden, attendees will be invited to step into the ring and participate in whacky, funny, unexpected games, vying for a sweet $100 cash prize. Like the Pop song poetry slam? Poem Swap head to head? Sudden death Sonnet war? Food Poem Freak Out? Sound Clown Foolery? This event is NOT to be missed.
The whole festival has so many amazing workshops and it's a celebration for us to hear some of the best competing individual poets in the country. Winner competes in the world poetry slam!
Have a look at the programming, PWYC options! http://versesfestival.ca/events-verses/category/verses-2021/
The whole festival has so many amazing workshops and it's a celebration for us to hear some of the best competing individual poets in the country. Winner competes in the world poetry slam!
Have a look at the programming, PWYC options! http://versesfestival.ca/events-verses/category/verses-2021/
Guernica Anthology Launch, March 24th, 830pm EST (online)
Very excited to have been included in this anthology from editor Dane Swan. It has gotten a lot of attention and was one of CBC's top 100 books for 2020. Join us for readings and discussion. This was one of Shelia Roger's recommended books and Charles Smith and Dane were also interviewed about it.
Join us! We're 'Changing the Face of Canadian Literature' with readings from Klara du Plessis, Charlie Petch, Dwayne Morgan, Jennilee Austria, Pamela Mordecai, Leslie Shimotakahara, Pratap Reddy, Sennah Yee, Charles C. Smith, Michael Fraser, Danila Botha, Leesa Dean and Daniele D'Onorio.
Interspersed with excerpts from A Sixfold Path for Expanding CanLit's Reach, an interview series hosted by Guernica Editions' publisher Michael Mirolla Including interviews with Ayelet Tsabari and Dane Swan.
This launch event is part of the #TorontoLitUp program which is designed to spotlight new works and empower Toronto’s writers. Toronto Lit Up is funded by the Toronto Arts Council and spearheaded by the Toronto International Festival of Authors.
Changing the Face of Canadian Literature available for purchase from our website
https://www.guernicaeditions.com/title/9781771835237
ZOOM LINK: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86761146527.
Join us! We're 'Changing the Face of Canadian Literature' with readings from Klara du Plessis, Charlie Petch, Dwayne Morgan, Jennilee Austria, Pamela Mordecai, Leslie Shimotakahara, Pratap Reddy, Sennah Yee, Charles C. Smith, Michael Fraser, Danila Botha, Leesa Dean and Daniele D'Onorio.
Interspersed with excerpts from A Sixfold Path for Expanding CanLit's Reach, an interview series hosted by Guernica Editions' publisher Michael Mirolla Including interviews with Ayelet Tsabari and Dane Swan.
This launch event is part of the #TorontoLitUp program which is designed to spotlight new works and empower Toronto’s writers. Toronto Lit Up is funded by the Toronto Arts Council and spearheaded by the Toronto International Festival of Authors.
Changing the Face of Canadian Literature available for purchase from our website
https://www.guernicaeditions.com/title/9781771835237
ZOOM LINK: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86761146527.
Mashed Poetics, Music and Poetry Megashow, Jan 30th, 6pm PST so 9pm EST
Our next show is coming up on Jan 30th via Zoom. We've another stellar lineup and featuring 10 beautiful and challenging guitar based songs to test the dazzling digits of Spillious the Ridiculous One. More details to come soon.
Side A
Luke Reece--Pipeline (Stevie Ray Vaughn and Dick Dale)
Charlie Petch--Feeling Bad Blues (Ry Cooder)
Janet Marie Rogers--Attitude Song (Steve Vai)
RC Weslowski--Little Suite (Liona Boyd)
Robert Priest--Mona Ray (Leo Kottke)
Side B
Johnny MacRae--Stephen Wake (Irish Hornpipe and 2 Jigs Celtic Guitar Playing)
Dwayne Morgan--The Claw (Lenny Breau)
Janice Jo Lee--The 5th Dimension (Trevana Spilchen)
Jennifer Alicia Murrin--Eruption (Van Halen--Eddie Van Halen)
David Silverberg--Rude Mood (Stevie Ray Vaughn and Double Trouble)
And in case you hadn't gleaned it on your own, with this list we have the Name of the Poet, the Name of the Song and then the folks playing the song.
If you would like the link, I'm happy to send it to you, just click here to send me an email
Side A
Luke Reece--Pipeline (Stevie Ray Vaughn and Dick Dale)
Charlie Petch--Feeling Bad Blues (Ry Cooder)
Janet Marie Rogers--Attitude Song (Steve Vai)
RC Weslowski--Little Suite (Liona Boyd)
Robert Priest--Mona Ray (Leo Kottke)
Side B
Johnny MacRae--Stephen Wake (Irish Hornpipe and 2 Jigs Celtic Guitar Playing)
Dwayne Morgan--The Claw (Lenny Breau)
Janice Jo Lee--The 5th Dimension (Trevana Spilchen)
Jennifer Alicia Murrin--Eruption (Van Halen--Eddie Van Halen)
David Silverberg--Rude Mood (Stevie Ray Vaughn and Double Trouble)
And in case you hadn't gleaned it on your own, with this list we have the Name of the Poet, the Name of the Song and then the folks playing the song.
If you would like the link, I'm happy to send it to you, just click here to send me an email
Kwantlen Poetry Project, A Virtual Speak Truth - Open mic, Thurs Jan 21st, 9pm EST
FREE EVENT - Kwantlen Poetry Project Events usually take place on the unceded and traditional lands of the Kwantlen, Katzie, Tsawwassen, Kwikwetlem, Stó:lö, Musqueam, Semiahmoo, Tsawwassen and Qayqayt. Despite us not gathering in the usual way, this must be acknowledged still.
Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, we know social isolation is hard; let's stay connected.
There will be a link given to those on the attending list on the day of the event. We will meet via Zoom.
Come witness the brilliance of our lovely feature poet (aw so nice, that's me), and maybe sign up for one of our 12 open mic spots.
Please click HERE to join the facebook event invite for the link, or email me at [email protected] for the link, I'd be happy to send it to you, you don't need to be on facebook to attend.
It's always nice to go back to Surrey BC. My mom's hometown! Such a complex place. Will miss being there with all that old forest. But I'll bring Surrey to the stage with me, heh heh
Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, we know social isolation is hard; let's stay connected.
There will be a link given to those on the attending list on the day of the event. We will meet via Zoom.
Come witness the brilliance of our lovely feature poet (aw so nice, that's me), and maybe sign up for one of our 12 open mic spots.
Please click HERE to join the facebook event invite for the link, or email me at [email protected] for the link, I'd be happy to send it to you, you don't need to be on facebook to attend.
It's always nice to go back to Surrey BC. My mom's hometown! Such a complex place. Will miss being there with all that old forest. But I'll bring Surrey to the stage with me, heh heh
Art Speaks Festival, Brock University, Poetry, Performance & Artivism workshop, Jan 20th - 3pm EST to 430pm
Very honoured to be a part of this fantastic lineup of artists, activists and performers. More links to come! Save the date.
Poetry, Performance and Artivism
In this workshop we will discuss the history of spoken word, what a slam poetry competition is, and how to prepare yourself for sharing difficult topics on and offstage. We will observe some poetry videos including my own performance, do a short writing exercise, then I will lead us in an Open Mic, where you can get performance feedback either on the workshop piece, or something you’d like to bring. Designed for beginners, but the feedback, tips and tricks portion will benefit anyone who does public speaking. You can observe and/or interact in the group. I am a mentor, actor, theatre director and Slam Poetry Coach. Let’s make you shine. Find out more and register here /and if you can't (it requires a brocku sign in, email me at [email protected]
Poetry, Performance and Artivism
In this workshop we will discuss the history of spoken word, what a slam poetry competition is, and how to prepare yourself for sharing difficult topics on and offstage. We will observe some poetry videos including my own performance, do a short writing exercise, then I will lead us in an Open Mic, where you can get performance feedback either on the workshop piece, or something you’d like to bring. Designed for beginners, but the feedback, tips and tricks portion will benefit anyone who does public speaking. You can observe and/or interact in the group. I am a mentor, actor, theatre director and Slam Poetry Coach. Let’s make you shine. Find out more and register here /and if you can't (it requires a brocku sign in, email me at [email protected]
Cross-Pollinations: Canadian Health Humanities Monthly Seminar Rounds, reading & Discussion, Wed Jan 27, 6pm EST
Cross-Pollinations: Canadian Health Humanities Monthly Seminar Rounds (sponsored by CAHH, LCP and HARC)
The Canadian Association of Health Humanities and the League of Canadian Poets are partnering to deliver a new series of monthly roundtable seminars focused on health and humanities. These live sessions will feature both a poet and a professional in the Health Humanities field for a multi-faceted conversation about a topic related to healthcare, art, healing, and health humanities.
These conversations will serve to illuminate new and emerging insights and perspectives on healthcare opportunities, pervasive healthcare problems, medical approaches, and advances and will foster a chance for regular connection between medical professionals, health humanities and the arts.
This reading series will launch in January 2021, and will feature 17 events – highlighting each health Humanities Faculty of Medicine School across the country. Stay tuned for more details from the League! (I will update)
Launch Event: This event will begin with a launch event that features only poetry, and artistic reflections on these themes. 5-6 poets will provide a reading, performance and/or reflection. Unlike our series of rounds, the launch event will focus solely on the poetic side of these conversations
The Canadian Association of Health Humanities and the League of Canadian Poets are partnering to deliver a new series of monthly roundtable seminars focused on health and humanities. These live sessions will feature both a poet and a professional in the Health Humanities field for a multi-faceted conversation about a topic related to healthcare, art, healing, and health humanities.
These conversations will serve to illuminate new and emerging insights and perspectives on healthcare opportunities, pervasive healthcare problems, medical approaches, and advances and will foster a chance for regular connection between medical professionals, health humanities and the arts.
This reading series will launch in January 2021, and will feature 17 events – highlighting each health Humanities Faculty of Medicine School across the country. Stay tuned for more details from the League! (I will update)
Launch Event: This event will begin with a launch event that features only poetry, and artistic reflections on these themes. 5-6 poets will provide a reading, performance and/or reflection. Unlike our series of rounds, the launch event will focus solely on the poetic side of these conversations
Workshop with Kwantlen Poetry Project, Jan 14th, 4pm to 6pm EST
Hey all, I'll be doing a workshop called "Tips & Tricks for Online Shows", which is geared towards all levels of online performance - In this workshop, award winning solo show performer, and lighting specialist for film and television, Charlie Petch, will take you through the principles of light, sound and script for online performance. Whether it is learning to light and sound better with what you have and dollar store solutions, or getting the gear you need to have an even more professional look, Charlie will show you tips and tricks and take you through the gear they use, and how you could set up a whole show that could have multiple lighting setups, and multimedia elements including projection and live music performance. Whether you are launching a book or crafting an entire show, you’ll find the advice you need from a fellow performer. - please email them at [email protected]
Wordstorm, Nanaimo BC Open mic & Feature, Jan 14th, 10pm EST
Very excited to be working with this open mic series. When I was in Nanaimo last year, I could not make it to any of their events because of my show schedule. Join us for an open mic and I'll start the night off with a feature set, and a little Q&A. Join us online! Here's their website, and I'll update the website with more info as it comes. www.wordstorm.ca/about
Ephemera Reading Series, Oct 21st, Remote on You Tube, 7 to 9pm EST
Very excited to be a part of this dreamy Toronto Science Fiction & Fantasy reading series, 3rd Wednesday of every month on YouTube. Accessible, kind, diverse. Funded by the Ontario Arts Council. I will be performing alongside readings by authors Waubgeshig Rice, Khashayar Mohammadi, and Sarah Pinsker. You can find out more about the series in their facebook page or their you tube channel, the show will be online there!
Loreli Fowler'een, Oct 28th, 8pm PST online from Victoria BC
I am really beyond excited to be the feature for this yearly celebration of one of my favourite poets. Loreli always brings the weirdest and most creative work to most poetry slams and open mics and I absolutely treasure her for it, as does her community. Hence, this yearly gift of a show. I will be performing work worthy of Her genius. Tune in, I promise there will be an answer to the ever shouted question - "WHAT IS SAWREALISM?". Details and link to come. I just couldn't keep the great news a secret anymore.
Keynote Speaker, Toronto Creative Conference, Nov 21st & 22nd, University of Toronto
Very honoured to have been invited to be a keynote speaker for this year's creative conference. I was asked by the faculty of music to do a talk on the theme of "Creativity in Social Dissonance". I will have more updates to come about the time I'll be speaking but do check out all that will be presented. I'm excited to be a part of this and also for the other Keynote speaker, Norbert Palej.
There is room for more speakers and workshops, with an emphasis on cross disciplines. Join us for a very necessary moment of creativity in these introspective and radical times.
There is room for more speakers and workshops, with an emphasis on cross disciplines. Join us for a very necessary moment of creativity in these introspective and radical times.
Poetry Weekend University of New Brunswick Oct 4th, 630 to 730 Atlantic, 530 Eastern
Really excited to be doing a poem for this amazing weekend. Of course online, but damn, I'd love to be in New Brunswick right now with all those gorgeous tree and poets. I'll be reading alongside amazing poets like Greg Santos, Lisa Richter, Nathaniel G Moor and Jacob Scheier. I'll tweet out the link when it's posted on @sawpot.
The first Poetry Weekend event is happening this weekend: Sunday, Oct 4, 2020 from 6:30-7:30 Atlantic time (5:30 Eastern). In true Poetry Weekend fashion, there will be a slate of poets reading a poem or two each, also within an hour!
Stay tuned for the link to the meeting to be posted here, and for information on future Poetry Weekend events, sadly not all happening on one weekend in Mem Hall.
The first Poetry Weekend event is happening this weekend: Sunday, Oct 4, 2020 from 6:30-7:30 Atlantic time (5:30 Eastern). In true Poetry Weekend fashion, there will be a slate of poets reading a poem or two each, also within an hour!
Stay tuned for the link to the meeting to be posted here, and for information on future Poetry Weekend events, sadly not all happening on one weekend in Mem Hall.
Warehouse of Strangers online festival Sunday September 27th, 6pm EST
I"m a part of an amazing group of basement electronica to punk and classical musicians and enthusiasts. We have an online festival and I'd be pleased to invite you. Please email me at [email protected] if you would like to come for the day of amazing and fantastical content. It's always a great day.
Peterborough/Nogo Pride open mic, reading and hosting, Fri Sept 25, 6pm est.
I think hosting with Derek Stills is likely the best news I can come up with. It's going to be so vunerbar. Join us to celebrate my hometown's pride in the safest way possible, off the streets and in the internet. Sign up to show your talents on the open mic. I just love Pride!
Citadel Workshop, 25 Spencer Ave Toronto, Mon Nov 25th, 7 to 9pm - Be Brave Onstage
So very honoured to be a part to the Citadel, a new poetry workshop/teaching organization that is like the MFA you can access. Started by by Robin Richardson, a wonderful poet and a mentor of mine for all things manuscript and publishing. Happy to be offering this very useful workshop.
Do you have a fear around performance? When someone puts a mic in front of you do you freeze? Let's face our fears with laughter, awareness and tools that will help you feel more confident in any public speaking situation.
In this workshop you'll learn how to adjust and use a mic and mic stand like a pro, learn the best way to read off the page and get valuable performance feedback from theatre director and slam coach, Charlie Petch.
Bring: Pen & paper, or whatever you write with. To reserve a spot click here
COST$40
Do you have a fear around performance? When someone puts a mic in front of you do you freeze? Let's face our fears with laughter, awareness and tools that will help you feel more confident in any public speaking situation.
In this workshop you'll learn how to adjust and use a mic and mic stand like a pro, learn the best way to read off the page and get valuable performance feedback from theatre director and slam coach, Charlie Petch.
Bring: Pen & paper, or whatever you write with. To reserve a spot click here
COST$40
Naked Heart Festival, Sat Nov 23rd, 7pm Glad Day Books.
Honoured to be a part of this legendary 2SLGBTQPIA+ lineup of authors. The festival is all weekend and this evening is such a special event, then there's Karaoke after! Checkout their website and schedule of workshops, panels and showcases. Our lineup is a dream of writers like:
Robbie Ahmad
Robbie is a writer, songwriter, and activist. Growing up in Russia, Saudi Arabia, Bangladesh and now Canada, he writes about his journey in discovering what home, happiness, and healing means in context of diasporic identity. He has written for several publications including Nuance, Elephant journal, Rest4Resistence, Living Hyphen and others
Joanne Vannicola
Vannicola is an Emmy award-winning actor, writer, and advocate. Joanne is also the chair of outACTRAto, the LGBTQ+ committee at ACTRA Toronto. Joanne also founded the non-profit organization, Youth Out Loud (2004-2009), raising awareness about child abuse and youth rights, and is the author of All We Knew But Couldn’t Say (2019).
Nic Brewer
Nic Brewer is a queer writer and editor from Toronto. She writes fiction, mostly; her first novel, Suture, is forthcoming from Book*Hug. She is the co-founder of Frond, an online literary journal for prose by LGBTQI2SA writers, and formerly co-managed the micropress words(on)pages.
C.E. Gatchalian
A settler on unceded Coast Salish territories (Vancouver), C.E. Gatchalian (he/his/him) is a queer Filipinx-Canadian author. A three-time Lammy finalist, he received the Dayne Ogilvie Prize in 2013. His memoir, Double Melancholy: Art, Beauty, and the Making of a Brown Queer Man, was published this year by Arsenal Pulp Press.
Jad Jaber
Jad Jaber, PhD, is a social-inclusion, gender expert and local artist focusing on some of the most vulnerable communities around the world, specifically on ethnic minorities and the LGBTQ+ community. His peer-reviewed paper on Queer language can be found online, and his book “Queer Arab Martyr” is on Amazon.
Peter Knegt
Peter Knegt is a writer, filmmaker and occasional stand-up comedian. He currently works for the CBC, producing the series Canada's a Drag and writing the weekly column Queeries, which was awarded the 2019 Digital Publishing Award for best column in Canada.
The event is 730 t0 845 find out more at
Robbie Ahmad
Robbie is a writer, songwriter, and activist. Growing up in Russia, Saudi Arabia, Bangladesh and now Canada, he writes about his journey in discovering what home, happiness, and healing means in context of diasporic identity. He has written for several publications including Nuance, Elephant journal, Rest4Resistence, Living Hyphen and others
Joanne Vannicola
Vannicola is an Emmy award-winning actor, writer, and advocate. Joanne is also the chair of outACTRAto, the LGBTQ+ committee at ACTRA Toronto. Joanne also founded the non-profit organization, Youth Out Loud (2004-2009), raising awareness about child abuse and youth rights, and is the author of All We Knew But Couldn’t Say (2019).
Nic Brewer
Nic Brewer is a queer writer and editor from Toronto. She writes fiction, mostly; her first novel, Suture, is forthcoming from Book*Hug. She is the co-founder of Frond, an online literary journal for prose by LGBTQI2SA writers, and formerly co-managed the micropress words(on)pages.
C.E. Gatchalian
A settler on unceded Coast Salish territories (Vancouver), C.E. Gatchalian (he/his/him) is a queer Filipinx-Canadian author. A three-time Lammy finalist, he received the Dayne Ogilvie Prize in 2013. His memoir, Double Melancholy: Art, Beauty, and the Making of a Brown Queer Man, was published this year by Arsenal Pulp Press.
Jad Jaber
Jad Jaber, PhD, is a social-inclusion, gender expert and local artist focusing on some of the most vulnerable communities around the world, specifically on ethnic minorities and the LGBTQ+ community. His peer-reviewed paper on Queer language can be found online, and his book “Queer Arab Martyr” is on Amazon.
Peter Knegt
Peter Knegt is a writer, filmmaker and occasional stand-up comedian. He currently works for the CBC, producing the series Canada's a Drag and writing the weekly column Queeries, which was awarded the 2019 Digital Publishing Award for best column in Canada.
The event is 730 t0 845 find out more at
Shab-e She'r Poetry, Tues Nov 26th, 7pm Tranzac Club, Toronto
Seven years ago, Banoo Zan asked me to be the feature for the launch of her new series dedicated to a diversity of readers, cultures and languages. Let's celebrate this dynasty of excellence she's curated for so many years. Come see this wonderful lineup of talents I'm so happy to be a part of and let's celebrate something so great in our city.
Words Aloud Festival
Owen Sound, Nov 2nd & 3rd
I am SO happy to be doing this festival. I've been crushing on Owen Sound for some time now and I'm excited to be bringing my poetry back to the city.
I will be doing a performance and microphone workshop on Saturday 10 am at Durham Town Hall, 185 George St W. Then I'll be on the mainstage at Coffin Ridge Winery at noon on Sunday.
Check out the whole lineup including Alicia Elliot, Yes the Poet and Ruth Daniell here
Give them a follow on Insta and Twitter @wordsaloudfest - Owen, baby, I'm coming home!
I will be doing a performance and microphone workshop on Saturday 10 am at Durham Town Hall, 185 George St W. Then I'll be on the mainstage at Coffin Ridge Winery at noon on Sunday.
Check out the whole lineup including Alicia Elliot, Yes the Poet and Ruth Daniell here
Give them a follow on Insta and Twitter @wordsaloudfest - Owen, baby, I'm coming home!
Brickyard at Supermarket, Tues Nov 5th 7pm & open mic
If you're wondering how Brick Books got to love my work enough to want to publish my first full length poetry manuscript, it was through this incredible project. I am super chuffed to be sharing this night with some of my very favourite poets. Do join us, especially if you want to be considered for the next round of Brickyard, a spoken word project with one of the most established publishers in Canada.
Canadian Festival of Spoken Word Presents Mel Malarkey and Janice Lee's show "Will You Be My Friend?" Oct 18th. Guelph On.
This whole festival has my heart and Guelph is my crush of a city for how well they organize. I'm super proud and excited to be sharing a bill with my dear friend and always comrade Janice Lee. I got to see this full show at Theatre Passe Muraille last year and am still freaking talking it up.
Thank you Guelph for meaning it when you said you'd so love to bring Mel to your city. It's super ready.
Excerpts from WILL YOU BE MY FRIEND a musical about how to be friends with nice white people who are probably racist. 3/4 Stars Toronto Star, 4/5 N's Now Magazine Toronto 2018
MEL MALARKEY GETS THE BUM'S RUSH Queer and Trans Propaganda disguised as a highly entertaining Vaudeville show about the end of an era. Winner of Best Characters Nanaimo Fringe 2019, Spirit of the Fringe Vancouver 2018
Tickets $15-20 at www.cfsw.ca
Thank you Guelph for meaning it when you said you'd so love to bring Mel to your city. It's super ready.
Excerpts from WILL YOU BE MY FRIEND a musical about how to be friends with nice white people who are probably racist. 3/4 Stars Toronto Star, 4/5 N's Now Magazine Toronto 2018
MEL MALARKEY GETS THE BUM'S RUSH Queer and Trans Propaganda disguised as a highly entertaining Vaudeville show about the end of an era. Winner of Best Characters Nanaimo Fringe 2019, Spirit of the Fringe Vancouver 2018
Tickets $15-20 at www.cfsw.ca
Bowery Poetry Club, NYC Oct 6th 8pm
What an honour to be featuring at this legendary venue. I will be sharing the stage with a few of my Musician friends, Vita E on drums and Rudy Wray Kwaku who was on my award winning Mel Malarkey Album "Odes & Acts" (listed on the Mel Malarkey page here). Come out and have us a great show. It will be like nothing you've ever seen before and completely unique for the night, so it will be like nothing you'll see again.
Bi Arts Festival, Buddies in Bad Times Theatre, Sat Sept 21st 7pm
I am so honoured to be a part of this Bi/Pan Arts Festival. I have always enjoyed going and I'm to be a part of a really amazing event. BI ARTS FESTIVAL FEATURE EVENT
BODIES IN RESISTANCE
SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 21, 7:00PM to 8:30PM
BUDDIES IN BAD TIMES THEATRE, 12 ALEXANDER ST.
**~PWYC~** AT THE DOOR, free to $10.
At Bodies in Resistance we are centering the creative work and voices of bi+, pansexual, fluid and 2Spirit artists with lived experiences at the intersections of sickness, disability, race, gender, gender identity, colonialism, violence, sexuality, desire, visibility, and class. Fallon Simard, Sandra Alland, Charlie Petch & Akio Maroon will begin the evening by sharing their work with the audience, followed by a conversation moderated by Margeaux Feldman.
ASL interpretation will be provided at this event. Buddies is a Wheelchair Accessible event with an elevator.
BODIES IN RESISTANCE
SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 21, 7:00PM to 8:30PM
BUDDIES IN BAD TIMES THEATRE, 12 ALEXANDER ST.
**~PWYC~** AT THE DOOR, free to $10.
At Bodies in Resistance we are centering the creative work and voices of bi+, pansexual, fluid and 2Spirit artists with lived experiences at the intersections of sickness, disability, race, gender, gender identity, colonialism, violence, sexuality, desire, visibility, and class. Fallon Simard, Sandra Alland, Charlie Petch & Akio Maroon will begin the evening by sharing their work with the audience, followed by a conversation moderated by Margeaux Feldman.
ASL interpretation will be provided at this event. Buddies is a Wheelchair Accessible event with an elevator.
The Deep, Deep Drag Western Tour, Aug 8th to Sept 8th, Nanaimo, Victoria, Vancouver!
KITTENS! So excited to be bringing Mel Malarkey Gets the Bum's Rush back out west. These look to be sweet festivals, please let anyone you know to come see this, and if you can't afford the tickets, let me know, There's always a way.
1. Nanaimo fringe starts us off with shows At The Harbour City Theatre, Sat Aug 10th - 930 pm, Sun 11th - 6pm, Tue 13th - 930pm, Wed 14th - 930 pm, Thu 15th - 915pm, Sat 17th - 315 pm, get your tickets here.
2. Then Mel heads off to Victoria Fringe, at Roxy Theatre - Thu Aug 22nd – 9pm, Sat 24th – 4:15pm, Sun 25th – 3:30pm , Tue 27th – 8pm, Fri 30th– 10pm, Sat 31st– 6pm, find those tickets here.
3. I'll be featuring at Vancouver Poetry Slam at Cafe Deux Soleis on Monday Sept 2nd, come to lineup/signup for 730 and the show starts at 8pm, find out more here.
4. After all of that jazz, I'll be doing a wee show called SawRealism in Vancouver, Sept 5th to 8th, 715pm Dusty Flowershop 2050 Scotia St to complement the incredibly stylings of RC Weslowski's strange and wonderful show "The Cruelest Phone Book In the World". Come see what the the heck we're doing, Here's the facebook invite. Please share!
1. Nanaimo fringe starts us off with shows At The Harbour City Theatre, Sat Aug 10th - 930 pm, Sun 11th - 6pm, Tue 13th - 930pm, Wed 14th - 930 pm, Thu 15th - 915pm, Sat 17th - 315 pm, get your tickets here.
2. Then Mel heads off to Victoria Fringe, at Roxy Theatre - Thu Aug 22nd – 9pm, Sat 24th – 4:15pm, Sun 25th – 3:30pm , Tue 27th – 8pm, Fri 30th– 10pm, Sat 31st– 6pm, find those tickets here.
3. I'll be featuring at Vancouver Poetry Slam at Cafe Deux Soleis on Monday Sept 2nd, come to lineup/signup for 730 and the show starts at 8pm, find out more here.
4. After all of that jazz, I'll be doing a wee show called SawRealism in Vancouver, Sept 5th to 8th, 715pm Dusty Flowershop 2050 Scotia St to complement the incredibly stylings of RC Weslowski's strange and wonderful show "The Cruelest Phone Book In the World". Come see what the the heck we're doing, Here's the facebook invite. Please share!
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Dianne Frankling C0-0p Poetry Show, July 25th, 7pm
Very happy to be returning to this series presented by Dianne Frankling Co-op housing. They have this sweet courtyard and guests and people who live in the co-op put on a wonderful show of local poets. I'll be a part of a lineup with 10 other readers and we'll read poems as the sun sets and clink glasses and meet the neighbours. Let me know if you'd like to come, it's a very sweet event. Email me at [email protected] for the details.
Outshines Conference May 17th to 19th, Fredericton NB
So proud to be a part of this legendary 2SLGBTQPIA+ conference. Myself and Rabbit Richards will be a part of the show on May 17th and then I'll be doing a Microphone & Performance workshop on the next day. If you are in town, join us for a weekend of so many amazing presenters, panels and workshops. Register here
In the Soil Arts Festival, Jun 7th - 9th, my show, Jun 7th 9pm, Mahtay Cafe
The Dirt:
In the Soil Arts Festival is an explosion of creativity in downtown St. Catharines featuring three days of NEW music, theatre, dance, comedy, installations, literary arts and one-time, out-of-the-box performance experiences. I cannot wait to show you my hour long set. Get ready to laugh, cry and experience music and words in ways that will delight and devastate you.
The festival has a early bird ticket price of 40 bucks until April 7th. 3 days of amazing entertainment. Get your tickets here
In the Soil Arts Festival is an explosion of creativity in downtown St. Catharines featuring three days of NEW music, theatre, dance, comedy, installations, literary arts and one-time, out-of-the-box performance experiences. I cannot wait to show you my hour long set. Get ready to laugh, cry and experience music and words in ways that will delight and devastate you.
The festival has a early bird ticket price of 40 bucks until April 7th. 3 days of amazing entertainment. Get your tickets here
Capturing Fire, Washington DC May 31st to June 2nd
Each year I get to be a part of this legendary international Queer Summit and Slam Festival. I will be a part of the opening festivities and will be hosting "That's so They, a Gender non binary/non conforming showcase" and may have a hand in some other events as they unfurl. It's always an incredible festival and I can't wait to bring another van full of poets, some new to the fest, some returning and our Hot Damn It's a Queer Slam winner Wes Ryan! Find out more here
Vancouver Poetry Slam, Sept 2nd
No trip out west will feel complete without a moment of noise at one of my favourite stages. Looking forward to our night together dear Van Slam! Doors will be 730, show 8pm Cafe Deux Soleil. Sign up for the slam or open mic and I'll see you there!
Free Workshop, Sony Centre of the Performing Arts, Wed Apr 10th, 6 to 7pm
Toronto Poetry Slam is once again working with the Sony Centre of the Arts this April to have a weekly free workshop and final slam. This is open to everyone and is an accessible space. Myself, Tanya Neumeyer and Cass Williams are each doing a free one hour workshops, I will be hosting the slam there on April 24th. There are 15 drop in spots available, pre registration is full but have a look to see where to show up for the drop in, here.
Be Brave Onstage
Facilitated by Charlie Petch
Learn ways to love your embarrassment and get valuable performance feedback from theatre director and slam coach, Charlie Petch. We will warm up with a fun icebreaker and write some new work that will embrace our comedic selves. Part 2 will be performance feedback. Bring a poem or use the freewrite and he will give you kind feedback to ensure you have the tools to capture the attention of any audience.
Be Brave Onstage
Facilitated by Charlie Petch
Learn ways to love your embarrassment and get valuable performance feedback from theatre director and slam coach, Charlie Petch. We will warm up with a fun icebreaker and write some new work that will embrace our comedic selves. Part 2 will be performance feedback. Bring a poem or use the freewrite and he will give you kind feedback to ensure you have the tools to capture the attention of any audience.
The Musical Saw Playlist, Thurs Apr 18th, 930 pm The Garnet Peterborough/Nogo
Join me while I play along to "The Musical Saw Playlist" with whoever wants to sign up. Bring an instrument, bring a poem to read as I play, a dance move, SING YOUR DURN HEART OUT from The opera stages of Carmen, to the Streets of Laredo and Ghost Riders In The Sky. We'll have the words for you and the keys for each song.
I'll do some poetry, tell some probably disturbing but somehow hilarious tales and we'll make some beautiful moments together dear hometown. This is a live experiment. 10 or PWYC, link to the Facebook event and a listing of the songs are found there as well, just click here
Link to the Spotify Playlist here
I'll do some poetry, tell some probably disturbing but somehow hilarious tales and we'll make some beautiful moments together dear hometown. This is a live experiment. 10 or PWYC, link to the Facebook event and a listing of the songs are found there as well, just click here
Link to the Spotify Playlist here
Hyp Slam & Workshop, Apr 28th at The Spice Factory, Hamilton
Calling all poets and all lovers of poetry! As always we are back on the 4th Sunday of each month for HYP Slam!
This is your last chance to Slam before our finals!
Date: Sunday, April 28th, 2019
Workshop: 5:00pm
Slam Doors At: 6:00 pm
Open Mic: 6:30 pm
Slam Start: 7:00 pm
Slam Spot: The Spice Factory (121 Hughson St)
Price: $5 dollars or PWYC (Pay What You Can)
Spread the Word!
Twitter: @HYP_SLAM
Instagram: @hamiltonyouthpoets
OPEN MIC:
There will be 5 spots in the open mic with a 5 min time limit.
SLAM:
Slam Rules: no props, no costumes, no musical instruments, original work only, no racist, homophobic, gender bias or otherwise hateful speech allowed, memorization optional, team pieces welcome.
Workshop - Coaching The Finals
Theatre director and Slam Poetry Coach Charlie Petch has a toolbox of tips to share with you. Master the mic, the mic stand, and find out how to harness the power you hold, how to be unforgettable. Bring a piece for feedback and an open mind. I'll get you ready for all the feelings and find ways to channel that beautiful energy you hold. Whether you hold your poem in your hand or memory, we'll get your performance game finals ready.
This is your last chance to Slam before our finals!
Date: Sunday, April 28th, 2019
Workshop: 5:00pm
Slam Doors At: 6:00 pm
Open Mic: 6:30 pm
Slam Start: 7:00 pm
Slam Spot: The Spice Factory (121 Hughson St)
Price: $5 dollars or PWYC (Pay What You Can)
Spread the Word!
Twitter: @HYP_SLAM
Instagram: @hamiltonyouthpoets
OPEN MIC:
There will be 5 spots in the open mic with a 5 min time limit.
SLAM:
Slam Rules: no props, no costumes, no musical instruments, original work only, no racist, homophobic, gender bias or otherwise hateful speech allowed, memorization optional, team pieces welcome.
Workshop - Coaching The Finals
Theatre director and Slam Poetry Coach Charlie Petch has a toolbox of tips to share with you. Master the mic, the mic stand, and find out how to harness the power you hold, how to be unforgettable. Bring a piece for feedback and an open mind. I'll get you ready for all the feelings and find ways to channel that beautiful energy you hold. Whether you hold your poem in your hand or memory, we'll get your performance game finals ready.
Howl Interview, 89.5 CIUT, Toronto April 30th, 10pm
Howl is a legendary poetry show that is hosted with Valentino Assenza and Nancy Bullis. I am to be on the air with a fave person/poet Andrea Thompson. Join me there!
Danforth Music Hall, Sat Feb 2nd, 7pm with Shane Koyczan
Well oh my gosh, how amazing. I'll be opening up for my dear friend and legendary spoken word artist, Shane Koyczan on the Toronto leg of his tour. I am so honoured to be performing for his audience, having been in it many times, I know it will be filled with generously hearted people. There are scant, if any tickets left, here's the link for a last min fingers crossed ticket. I know he will be bringing an incredible show. There's some solo seats left, get them here
Fundraiser for Sprott House, Jan 26th, 630pm Glad Day Bookstore
SHANNON’S 40TH BIRTHDAY POETRY MARATHON FUNDRAISER FOR SPROTT HOUSE LGBTQ YOUTH SHELTER
When: Saturday, January 26 6:30-10:00 PM
Where: Glad Day Bookshop (499 Church Street, Toronto Ontario M4Y 2C6)
What: Poetry Marathon Fundraiser for LGBTQ2S+ Youth Shelter
PWYC: suggested donation $5-5000 – all funds raised will go directly to SPROTT HOUSE (Walmer Road Centre) LGBTQ Youth Shelter.
Light snacks & cash bar.
+ Open Mic (one poem or three minutes, whichever comes first)
Hosted by: Shannon Maguire & David Bateman
Readings by:
Aisha Sasha John, Andrew Woolner, Bänoo Zan, bill bissett, Brandy Ryan, Brock Hansel, Brian Dedora ,Charlie Petch, David Bateman, Edward Nixon, Lynn McClory, Margaret Christakos, Maureen Hynes, Michael Grecco, Natalie Helberg,Nikki Sheppy, Pat Conners, Patricia Wilson, Paula Parris Eisenstein ,Philip Cairns, Ralph Kolewe , Rose Cullis, Sanchari Sur, Sarah Pinder, Shannon Maguire, Sonja Grecol, Stuart Ross
REMOTELY:
Claire Lacy
Larissa Lai
Liz Howard
Trace Peterson
And many more…
DONATIONS can be made online OR in cash at the door.
https://ymcagta.akaraisin.com/DIY/poetrymarathonfundraiser
PLEASE DONATE EVEN IF YOU CANNOT ATTEND!
SPROTT HOUSE (Walmer Road Centre) is the first LGBTQ2S+ transitional housing program for youth in Canada. It provides one year of supported residential living for up to 25 young people between the ages of 16-24.
When: Saturday, January 26 6:30-10:00 PM
Where: Glad Day Bookshop (499 Church Street, Toronto Ontario M4Y 2C6)
What: Poetry Marathon Fundraiser for LGBTQ2S+ Youth Shelter
PWYC: suggested donation $5-5000 – all funds raised will go directly to SPROTT HOUSE (Walmer Road Centre) LGBTQ Youth Shelter.
Light snacks & cash bar.
+ Open Mic (one poem or three minutes, whichever comes first)
Hosted by: Shannon Maguire & David Bateman
Readings by:
Aisha Sasha John, Andrew Woolner, Bänoo Zan, bill bissett, Brandy Ryan, Brock Hansel, Brian Dedora ,Charlie Petch, David Bateman, Edward Nixon, Lynn McClory, Margaret Christakos, Maureen Hynes, Michael Grecco, Natalie Helberg,Nikki Sheppy, Pat Conners, Patricia Wilson, Paula Parris Eisenstein ,Philip Cairns, Ralph Kolewe , Rose Cullis, Sanchari Sur, Sarah Pinder, Shannon Maguire, Sonja Grecol, Stuart Ross
REMOTELY:
Claire Lacy
Larissa Lai
Liz Howard
Trace Peterson
And many more…
DONATIONS can be made online OR in cash at the door.
https://ymcagta.akaraisin.com/DIY/poetrymarathonfundraiser
PLEASE DONATE EVEN IF YOU CANNOT ATTEND!
SPROTT HOUSE (Walmer Road Centre) is the first LGBTQ2S+ transitional housing program for youth in Canada. It provides one year of supported residential living for up to 25 young people between the ages of 16-24.
The Crumpled Velvets, Cabico & Petch, Live at The Garnet, Tues Jan 8th
Helloo Peterborough / Nogojawinong, my dear hometown. Let's have us a post holiday blowout of comedy, poetry and music with the famed poet Regie Cabico, all the way in from Washington DC, you know there will be so many moments of hilarity and humanity with us, so don't miss out! Let's have us a show! Novelty Instruments! Novelty Poetry! Sublime fun and so much love.
8pm Tues Jan 8th
The Garnet, 231 Hunter St W
10 dollars or PWYC
Regie Cabico is a spoken word pioneer having won The Nuyorican Poets Cafe Grand Slam and later taking top prizes in three National Poetry Slams. Television credits include 2 seasons of HBO's Def Poetry Jam, NPR'sSnap Judgement & MTV's Free Your Mind. His work appears in over 30 anthologies including Aloud: Voices from the Nuyorican Poets Café, Spoken Word Revolution & The Outlaw Bible of American Poetry. Mr. Cabico received the 2006 Writers for Writers Award from Poets & Writers for his work teaching at-risk youth at Bellevue Hospital. As a theater artist he received three New York Innovative Theater Award Nominations for his work in Too Much Light Makes The Baby Go Blind with a win for Best Performance Art Production The Kenyon Review recently named Regie Cabico the "Lady Gaga of Poetry" and he has been listed in BUST magazine's 100 Men We Love. He has shared the stage with Patti Smith, Allen Ginsberg and through Howard Zinn's Portraits Project at NYU, has performed with Stanley Tucci, Jesse Eisenberg & Lupe Fiasco.
"Cabico’s work holds the same kind force and power that Lady Gaga projects! Thrilling! If you have a chance to see him perform, don’t miss it!" Kenyon Review
"The Fairy Godmother of Spoken Word Poetry!" Washington Post
"Cabico's eloquence as a poet is extraordinary!" Broadway World
8pm Tues Jan 8th
The Garnet, 231 Hunter St W
10 dollars or PWYC
Regie Cabico is a spoken word pioneer having won The Nuyorican Poets Cafe Grand Slam and later taking top prizes in three National Poetry Slams. Television credits include 2 seasons of HBO's Def Poetry Jam, NPR'sSnap Judgement & MTV's Free Your Mind. His work appears in over 30 anthologies including Aloud: Voices from the Nuyorican Poets Café, Spoken Word Revolution & The Outlaw Bible of American Poetry. Mr. Cabico received the 2006 Writers for Writers Award from Poets & Writers for his work teaching at-risk youth at Bellevue Hospital. As a theater artist he received three New York Innovative Theater Award Nominations for his work in Too Much Light Makes The Baby Go Blind with a win for Best Performance Art Production The Kenyon Review recently named Regie Cabico the "Lady Gaga of Poetry" and he has been listed in BUST magazine's 100 Men We Love. He has shared the stage with Patti Smith, Allen Ginsberg and through Howard Zinn's Portraits Project at NYU, has performed with Stanley Tucci, Jesse Eisenberg & Lupe Fiasco.
"Cabico’s work holds the same kind force and power that Lady Gaga projects! Thrilling! If you have a chance to see him perform, don’t miss it!" Kenyon Review
"The Fairy Godmother of Spoken Word Poetry!" Washington Post
"Cabico's eloquence as a poet is extraordinary!" Broadway World
Mel Malarkey Gets the Bums Rush is in the Saskatoon, Edmonton & Vancouver Fringe Festivals! Click here for all the info!
Breath In Poetry, Edmonton Open Mic Feature! Nook Cafe Tues Aug 14th 7pm
Ok I have to admit that the Edmonton Slam team is one I've been a fan boy of for some time now. I am so excited to be bringing a feature once again to their incredible scene! I'm in town also for the Fringe, bringing my Mel Malarkey Gets The Bum's Rush show to my first Edmonton Fringe! I have some new work I'm so excited for the community to see and also I get to hear some of their work as well. What a blessed event this will be. Thank you loves! Hosted by Liam Cody, The Nook Cafe, 10153 97 Street Northwest, Edmonton, Alberta T5J 0L4
Van Slam Feature! Cafe Deux Soleis Sept 3rd, 8pm
Vancouver, Salish Territories, I'm so excited to bring some of my new work to your stage. Sadly Robobaby had to stay home this time but I'll be bringing Mel Malarkey (The show I'm bringing to your fringe!) and Pinocchio to your stages as well as some other work I'm proud to share with you. Honestly, it feels always like coming home when I'm here, and that's mainly because I want us all to shack up together, or at least spend two weeks in some glorious retreat called our company. Luckily I get to do the latter. Vaaaaaan I'm to be reunited with you! ERMERGHERD!!!
Voices of Today Youth Festival, Last Chance Slam, July 24th, 6pm Palmerston Library
Thrilled to be back at this incredible festival. This is the last chance for youth poets to qualify to be on a team for the rest of the festival. Spread the word and sign up 6pm. I'll be doing a feature set with some of my new work! Click here to learn more about this excellent endeavour and get tickets.
Bricks & Glitter, Hot Damn Showcase, July 25th, 7pm doors, 8pm show & open mic
Unit 2 is an incredible organization and performance space dedicated to BIPOC and Trans Voices. This year in response to yet another year of people feeling ignored with concerns around true accessibility an representation at Toronto Pride they have created "Bricks & Glitter" a community festival.
They approached me to recommend some Hot Damn artists and I asked our top two poets from finals and was overjoyed to announce this lineup. Both D'Scribe and Truth Is... come from an enormous background as performers. Truth was the first spoken word artist I saw and my gosh, they just keep growing. D'Scribe comes from a background in hip hop and rap and is finding another facet of the artist he can be in Spoken Word.
This is also an Open Mic, bring your wonderful talents, spoken word or not, and let's have us a great show together! Unit 2 is an accessible space for wheelchairs and works towards radical inclusivity, please see their complete accessibility statement here
They approached me to recommend some Hot Damn artists and I asked our top two poets from finals and was overjoyed to announce this lineup. Both D'Scribe and Truth Is... come from an enormous background as performers. Truth was the first spoken word artist I saw and my gosh, they just keep growing. D'Scribe comes from a background in hip hop and rap and is finding another facet of the artist he can be in Spoken Word.
This is also an Open Mic, bring your wonderful talents, spoken word or not, and let's have us a great show together! Unit 2 is an accessible space for wheelchairs and works towards radical inclusivity, please see their complete accessibility statement here
Tonight It's Poetry, Saskatoon Feature July 29th, 8pm Amigo's
I will be razzling and dazzling at one of my favourite city's poetry slams! So excited to be back at Amigos! Tonight It's Poetry
July 29th // Amigos Cantina
Saskatoon -- Treaty 6 Territory -- Home of the Métis People
$5 suggested donation // 8:00 PM
Tonight It's Poetry is thrilled to feature Charlie Petch on our stage! Charlie C Petch is an award winning playwright, spoken word artist, haiku deathmaster, published poet, host and musical saw player. Hailing from Toronto they are the consumate performer who will dazzle and amaze you!
July 29th // Amigos Cantina
Saskatoon -- Treaty 6 Territory -- Home of the Métis People
$5 suggested donation // 8:00 PM
Tonight It's Poetry is thrilled to feature Charlie Petch on our stage! Charlie C Petch is an award winning playwright, spoken word artist, haiku deathmaster, published poet, host and musical saw player. Hailing from Toronto they are the consumate performer who will dazzle and amaze you!
Canadian Writer's Summit, Panel June 15th, Remembering Forward, 2pm Main Loft, Harbourfront
I am beyond honoured to be a part of this panel and to launch our collection of essays I edited from last year. Join us in conversation about how we move forward and recognize the histories that brought us to this moment in feminism. Join the League of Canadian Poets’ Feminist Caucus for their annual panel presentation and chapbook launch. This year, panelists Lillian Allen, Gwen Benaway, Anne Burke, Canisia Lubrin, Lee Maracle, and Charlie C. Petch discuss on the topic of “Remembering Forward” — how feminist visions, ideals, and objectives change over time.
This event will also launch Revisit, Revise, Revolutionize: A Two-Part Harmony, the latest in the Living Archives chapbook series. Featuring the work of Janice Jo Lee, Andrea Thompson, and Paulina O’Kieffe, with an introduction from editors Vanessa Shields and Charlie Petch, this chapbook looks at the history and future of feminism in literature in Canada.
Finally, the Feminist Caucus welcomes all writers to this event to take part in the annual open reading, a short open mic section of the event that welcomes readings from all writers. - Do have a look at and register for this incredible weekend here
This event will also launch Revisit, Revise, Revolutionize: A Two-Part Harmony, the latest in the Living Archives chapbook series. Featuring the work of Janice Jo Lee, Andrea Thompson, and Paulina O’Kieffe, with an introduction from editors Vanessa Shields and Charlie Petch, this chapbook looks at the history and future of feminism in literature in Canada.
Finally, the Feminist Caucus welcomes all writers to this event to take part in the annual open reading, a short open mic section of the event that welcomes readings from all writers. - Do have a look at and register for this incredible weekend here
Secret Handshake Gallery, June 24th 130pm
I am so humbled to be asked once again to do a little poetry show with bill bisset's incredible incredible poetry series in this wonderful gallery. You'll see artworks done by the members of the Secret Handshake Gallery who are mostly artists living with Schizophrenia. Here is where they meet as a clubhouse to do workshops and develop their creative talents. Come support this community space, no one will be turned away for lack of funds, they do ask for a donation. There is a staircase, please be advised.
Very excited to be sharing the stage with the legendary Clifton Joseph
Also with Patrick Connors who runs his own series at Hirut
and looking forward to hearing the works of Matthew Grimm
There is usually an open mic sign up
Then after, we'll spill out into the market for the rest of the hopefully beautiful day to wander and beam our poetry hearts all over the place
Very excited to be sharing the stage with the legendary Clifton Joseph
Also with Patrick Connors who runs his own series at Hirut
and looking forward to hearing the works of Matthew Grimm
There is usually an open mic sign up
Then after, we'll spill out into the market for the rest of the hopefully beautiful day to wander and beam our poetry hearts all over the place
Surrealist Poetry Festival, Calgary Spoken Word Society, June 29 & 30th
Ok so this is going to be so fabulous my gosh. From the clandestine mind of Sheri D Wilson (Calgary Poet Laureate), come a gooshy installation of music, poetry and all things surreal. I'll be doing a reading and an instillation as well as a panel discussion. Much to be updated but Calgary, come out come out!
Thank you to the Calgary Spoken Word Society for this great news.
Thank you to the Calgary Spoken Word Society for this great news.
Hillside OOOHYEAAAH July 13th to 15th
THAT'S RIGHT I GOT INTO HILLSIDE! Ok just a little bit excited here :)
It's such an honour to be a part of this legendary music festival. They have been embracing all things spoken word and I cannot wait to be a part of the Sun Stage. I'll be doing an hour long set filled with music, poetry and costume. More info to come but for now I'm just going to jump up and down some more.
It's such an honour to be a part of this legendary music festival. They have been embracing all things spoken word and I cannot wait to be a part of the Sun Stage. I'll be doing an hour long set filled with music, poetry and costume. More info to come but for now I'm just going to jump up and down some more.
Be Brave Onstage, Crow Theatre, July 16th - 6pm to 830 pm, Presented by East End Arts
A huge thanks to East End Arts for bringing back this very effective workshop. Though the roots of it are in performance and spoken word it truly is a great place to get over your fear of public speaking. Here's the little intro to it, some of you will participate, others will want to just watch, all is good because there will be laughter and learning. What a beautiful spot to be able to run this in!
In this workshop you'll: learn how to adjust and use a mic and mic stand like a pro, find your light and learn ways to love your embarrassment and get valuable performance feedback from theatre director and slam coach, Charlie Petch. FREE! But please register through this link to reserve a spot - RSVP Yes!
In this workshop you'll: learn how to adjust and use a mic and mic stand like a pro, find your light and learn ways to love your embarrassment and get valuable performance feedback from theatre director and slam coach, Charlie Petch. FREE! But please register through this link to reserve a spot - RSVP Yes!
U of Waterloo, Feminist Poetry Slam, June 4th, 7 to 9, Bombshelter Pub
“Roses are red, violets are blue, words can dismantle patriarchy, and so can you!”
I"m very honoured to be asked to be the feature performer at this University Slam put on by the UW Women's Centre
Come out to Feminist Poetry Slam on June 4! The poetry slam is a non-competitive event that will showcase the diverse talents and experiences of your fellow UWaterloo Students.
The event is open to the public, and cover is free. Join us for a wonderful evening filled with art, passion, and feminism. We look forward to seeing you incredible students there!
If you are interested in participating, send us a copy of the piece/s you wish to perform, along with any associated trigger warnings at [email protected].
Guidelines:
- keep poems between 3-4 minutes long
- Please include trigger warnings with sensitive content!
We look forward to your support!
I"m very honoured to be asked to be the feature performer at this University Slam put on by the UW Women's Centre
Come out to Feminist Poetry Slam on June 4! The poetry slam is a non-competitive event that will showcase the diverse talents and experiences of your fellow UWaterloo Students.
The event is open to the public, and cover is free. Join us for a wonderful evening filled with art, passion, and feminism. We look forward to seeing you incredible students there!
If you are interested in participating, send us a copy of the piece/s you wish to perform, along with any associated trigger warnings at [email protected].
Guidelines:
- keep poems between 3-4 minutes long
- Please include trigger warnings with sensitive content!
We look forward to your support!
Capturing Fire, International Queer Summit & Slam, Washington DC June 8&9th
So excited to return to this incredible festival. We'll be having it during Capital Pride and I'll be hosting, That's So They - a Gender Non Conforming Showcase, and a Poets over 40 showcase! As always I'll be bringing the Hot Damn Crew with me and our champion from Season 5 - D'SCRIBE! It's truly a glorious weekend, away from the bustle of pride but so dedicated to 2SLGBTQPIIA poetry. Find out more here
Erotica Cabaret, May 28th, 730pm PWYC at Buddies In Bad Times Theatre
I want to make you all fall in erotic love with me because dammit, I haven't had a date in years lol. Ok half "thankfully" and half like "what? how did that happen?"
Hey hey hey haha
SQUIRT: A Queer Lit Erotica Cabaret (and other secreted genres) featuring:
David Bateman
bill bissett
Tom Cho
Shannon Maguire
Charlie Petch
Sarah Pinder
PWYC
Come celebrate wet words on the tip of pride month! All welcome!
Pride Reading, Sun May 27th, 5-7 Queen Books, 914 Queen St E
Join me and some fab readers for a pride themed performance at one of the sweetest independent book stores in the city! Pass the hat, PWYC event!
Readers:
Michelle Alfano (emcee)
Dani Couture
Darren Greer
Mona Mousa
Anthony Oliveira
Charlie Petch
Readers:
Michelle Alfano (emcee)
Dani Couture
Darren Greer
Mona Mousa
Anthony Oliveira
Charlie Petch
London Slam - Show May 18th, Workshop the 19th
One of my first features was with my team for London Poetry Slam. I love the energy of this slam! I have been showing the love ever since and can't wait to be the feature for their Anything Goes Slam!
I promise you these poets are going to be bringing their most creative selves and I can't wait to celebrate with them!
Slam time: Friday May 18th, 8pm (doors 7)
Slam spot: London Music Club (470 Colborne St)
Slam price: ONLY $5
Slam rules: Sign up call at 7:30pm, team pieces welcome, THIS MONTH ONLY PROPS, COSTUMES, INSTRUMENTS, & COVERS ALLOWED! (but still no nudity or hate speech). Memorization is optional. Time limit extension to 4 minutes.
Find out more here
I promise you these poets are going to be bringing their most creative selves and I can't wait to celebrate with them!
Slam time: Friday May 18th, 8pm (doors 7)
Slam spot: London Music Club (470 Colborne St)
Slam price: ONLY $5
Slam rules: Sign up call at 7:30pm, team pieces welcome, THIS MONTH ONLY PROPS, COSTUMES, INSTRUMENTS, & COVERS ALLOWED! (but still no nudity or hate speech). Memorization is optional. Time limit extension to 4 minutes.
Find out more here
Louder than a Bomb, Canada - Hamilton HYP May 16th 2pm Workshop 5pm show - Hamilton Art Gallery
So excited to be a part of this legendary Youth Slam Festival - I'll be doing a workshop during the day, then we have an artist meet and greet and finish the day with Queeriosity, which is a performance showcase dedicated to voices who are reshaping the conversation about sexuality, identity, and community. The event is a safe space for LGBTQ artists to speak their truths to a supportive audience and allows emerging artists to collaborate with established artists in a cultural forum of stories and perspectives. Myself and Gwen Benaway will be just some of the features.
Emergency #22, Debut "Daughter of Geppetto", Market Hall Peterborough/Nogojawinong March 23rd& 24th
Very excited to present this new work as a part of the legendary Emergency Dance Series with Public Energy. Reserve tickets here. When Pinocchio finds Geppetto shipwrecked inside The Terrible Dogfish, the marionette realizes his creator cannot recall the days he once called him daughter and together they write the true life tall tale, “The Adventures of Pinnochio”. Charlie Petch presents this reimagining of story with light, silhouette, animation, music, spoken word and collaborates with choreographer Wes Ryan and projectionist Patricia Thorne.
ReFrame Film Festival, Peterborough Jan 25th to 28th
Very excited to be a part of the event for the Saturday featured film at Showplace, Shut Up and Listen. I will be presenting a poem and then doing a Q&A around the new film about a dear friend called Shut Up And Listen, Moe Clark will also be showing her short film that night Nitahkôtân (I Have Arrived) and will be also performing. Amazing festival in a great town not too far from Toronto or Ottawa or even Pontypool! See the whole schedule and get tickets here
Wrestling with Stigma - The Local - Peterborough Nogojiwanong Dec 10th, Doors 4pm, show 5pm
Very honoured to be a part of this event raising money for PARN, Peterborough Aids Research Network -
Wrestling With Stigma is a delicious synergy of education and entertainment with the LGBTQ community and with the power of our professional wrestling partner SMASH! Wrestling--the top independent wrestling promotor in the country airing weekly on the Fight Network. SMASH!STIGMA! will feature top local, Canadian and International wrestling personalities, live music performances, comedy, and a variety of things you could see take place inside a wrestling ring. The event will expand awareness, dispel myths and untruths, make light and offer education and amazing top-quality entertainment. This will be first event in Peterborough of its kind, kicking off a national and international tour to deliver this powerful message through the WRESTLING WITH STIGMA brand through the future, creating a new realm of possibility for those living with HIV in the LGBTQ and every community. Find your ticket here
Wrestling With Stigma is a delicious synergy of education and entertainment with the LGBTQ community and with the power of our professional wrestling partner SMASH! Wrestling--the top independent wrestling promotor in the country airing weekly on the Fight Network. SMASH!STIGMA! will feature top local, Canadian and International wrestling personalities, live music performances, comedy, and a variety of things you could see take place inside a wrestling ring. The event will expand awareness, dispel myths and untruths, make light and offer education and amazing top-quality entertainment. This will be first event in Peterborough of its kind, kicking off a national and international tour to deliver this powerful message through the WRESTLING WITH STIGMA brand through the future, creating a new realm of possibility for those living with HIV in the LGBTQ and every community. Find your ticket here
Emergents 1 : Sounds of Silence, Thurs Dec 7 8pm 918 Bathurst
The Music Gallery presents
EMERGENTS I: SOUNDS OF SILENCE INITIATIVE
Thursday December 7
$12 Regular/$12 Advance/$8 Member/Student
918 Bathurst St. Centre for Culture Arts Media and Education
Doors 7:30PM/Concert 8PM
Myself and 4 other poets have been paired with composers, operatic singers and musicians to create new works. Three of my poems have been chosen. C3PO, Preying Mantis, letters from mothers to sons.
Founded just last year, SOSI has already brought together over 50 composers, poets, and musicians to collaborate and create new Canadian Art Song that tells the story of a diverse Canadian cultural identity. SOSI serves as a platform for discussing issues of representation in Canadian arts culture.
SOSI strives to ensure the involvement from underrepresented communities in the Greater Toronto Area. In particular, all poets involved in SOSI identify with Indigenous, immigrant, Black, refugee, and LGBT communities with varying degrees of intersectionality. SOSI hopes to provide a platform on which their unique and powerful voices can been heard.
This concert consists of two song cycles per set, performed by a core group of musicians and vocalists.
SET 1:
FEMININindigenization by Evan Hammell and Heather Clear Wind Blows Over the Moon
the wind blows
I remember as a kid
runaway teen
impossible skies
for ancestors who went before
bison of my longing
I lost myself in the forest
the wind blows (reprise)
Songs from Precarious by Kolby Zinger-Harris and Aparna Halpe
I
Serenade
VII
545
SET 2:
Songs created by Alex Sandoval and Banoo Zan
The Moon
Azan on a Toronto Streetcar
Letters by Abigail de Niverville and Charlie Petch
Dear C3PO
Eat Prey Love
Dear Ivan
Performed by:
Frances Armstrong, piano
Alex McMaster, cello
Korin Thomas Smith (bass-baritone), vocals
Daniel Robinson (baritone), vocals
Joshua Clemenger (tenor), vocals
Jennifer Routhier (mezzo-soprano), vocals
Daniel Robinson is the founder and director of The Sounds of Silence Initiative. As a current graduate fellow at the University of Toronto’s Faculty of Music he is researching voice therapy interventions for transgender women as well as the effects of presbycusis on resonance perception.
EMERGENTS I: SOUNDS OF SILENCE INITIATIVE
Thursday December 7
$12 Regular/$12 Advance/$8 Member/Student
918 Bathurst St. Centre for Culture Arts Media and Education
Doors 7:30PM/Concert 8PM
Myself and 4 other poets have been paired with composers, operatic singers and musicians to create new works. Three of my poems have been chosen. C3PO, Preying Mantis, letters from mothers to sons.
Founded just last year, SOSI has already brought together over 50 composers, poets, and musicians to collaborate and create new Canadian Art Song that tells the story of a diverse Canadian cultural identity. SOSI serves as a platform for discussing issues of representation in Canadian arts culture.
SOSI strives to ensure the involvement from underrepresented communities in the Greater Toronto Area. In particular, all poets involved in SOSI identify with Indigenous, immigrant, Black, refugee, and LGBT communities with varying degrees of intersectionality. SOSI hopes to provide a platform on which their unique and powerful voices can been heard.
This concert consists of two song cycles per set, performed by a core group of musicians and vocalists.
SET 1:
FEMININindigenization by Evan Hammell and Heather Clear Wind Blows Over the Moon
the wind blows
I remember as a kid
runaway teen
impossible skies
for ancestors who went before
bison of my longing
I lost myself in the forest
the wind blows (reprise)
Songs from Precarious by Kolby Zinger-Harris and Aparna Halpe
I
Serenade
VII
545
SET 2:
Songs created by Alex Sandoval and Banoo Zan
The Moon
Azan on a Toronto Streetcar
Letters by Abigail de Niverville and Charlie Petch
Dear C3PO
Eat Prey Love
Dear Ivan
Performed by:
Frances Armstrong, piano
Alex McMaster, cello
Korin Thomas Smith (bass-baritone), vocals
Daniel Robinson (baritone), vocals
Joshua Clemenger (tenor), vocals
Jennifer Routhier (mezzo-soprano), vocals
Daniel Robinson is the founder and director of The Sounds of Silence Initiative. As a current graduate fellow at the University of Toronto’s Faculty of Music he is researching voice therapy interventions for transgender women as well as the effects of presbycusis on resonance perception.
Mel Malarkey - Show and East End Album Launch - Artisans at Work, 2017 Danforth Ave - Toronto, Nov 24th 15 adv, 20 door
KITTENS! We're back for an east end album launch of "Mel Malarkey Odes & Acts" and I'll be performing my Vaudeville show "Mel Malarkey Get's The Bum's Rush" which has travelled all over and been wonderfully reviewed. Watch the little trailer and read reviews here. I have only 50 tickets to offer at 15 each. 20 at the door. Come have a bevvy and a belly laugh at this gorgeous little performance space and artisan run shop right near Woodbine station.
If you would like to reserve a spot please email me here
If you would like to reserve a spot please email me here
Trans day of Resilience, Nov 20, Hamilton, NGen Youth Centre, 24 Main St 7-9 pm
I am so honoured to be included as one of the speakers at this yearly day of celebration of us and remembrance of those we've lost. Join us to listen to speakers, watch performers, and share conversation over finger foods while we remember the Transgender people who have been lost to transphobia.
Doors open at 6:00pm
Special thanks to the LGBTQ Advisory Committee, Autumn Getty, Ty from NGEN, Jyssika Russell, and Magda Will for helping this event happen.
Doors open at 6:00pm
Special thanks to the LGBTQ Advisory Committee, Autumn Getty, Ty from NGEN, Jyssika Russell, and Magda Will for helping this event happen.
Buffalo Show, Fri Oct 13th, 7pm, Grindhause Cafe 180 Allen St
I am so excited for this night! I met the wonderful poet and haiku artist Scott Williams met at Art Bar maybe a year ago and he invited me to be a part of this long running series.
My first Buffalo show and with such great company. Open mic too!
My first Buffalo show and with such great company. Open mic too!
Artists Health Panel
Glad Day Bookstore
Thurs Oct 19th 630-8pm
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As some of you know I've worked in health for a lot of my life, family health, 911, retirement residences, rehabilitation centres and hospital work. This is a chance for me to bridge what I know living as a full time artist and full time health worker and the resources I'm aware of as well. Come and see the wonderful panel and Q&A with myself Mahlikah Aweri and Dr Chase Mc Murran. Find out more and grab a ticket today. So happy to be having this excellent discussion. Pre register for seats here
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Folk Music Ontario Convention -Accessibility Panel, Sat Oct 21st 2- 330pm,Hilton Toronto Airport Hotel & Suites
Very excited to be a part of this panel and conversation - How to Make Your Festival More Inclusive and Safe- As a festival, do you feel like you are struggling to make marginalized groups feel safe and included at your event? Are there strategies you could be implementing that would help to both grow your audience as well as ensure everyone’s needs are being met? Come and learn how to address these issues head-on as well as work to increase awareness of this issue. The whole weekend is legendary, click here to find out more and register!
Canadian Festival of Spoken Word Oct 22-28th Peterborough Nogojiwanong
I am ever so proud to announce that this year I have been invited to be one of the Poets of Honour at the Canadian Festival of Spoken Word and it's in my hometown of Peterborough / Nogojiwanong. All week there will be incredible programming and the kind of beautiful and brave work of new and seasoned poets competing to become the national poetry slam champions. I'll be doing a late night event called "Our Sexless Marriage" with Andre Prefontaine, show and LGBTQPIA2S+ open mic and a Masterclass called "How to look like you know what you're doing when you don't" Tech for Performers. Learn what to expect, what you can ask for, and how it all works from someone who's been on both sides as a professional tech and performer. I will be performing (with surprise guests) at finals in the gorgeous Market Hall Theatre. Click here to see the whole week lineup and get tickets now!
Voices of Today Festival Finals Feature - Mimico Centennial Library, 5pm Fri Aug 26th
Voices of Today is a is a four day festival with workshops, open mics, and showcases. It is the newest addition to the set of festivals run by Spoken Word Canada, and its goal is to bring together youth poets from all across Canada to learn from community leaders and each other.
Throughout the week there will be preliminary bouts:
https://www.facebook.com/events/1294295210680062/?ref=br_rs
https://www.facebook.com/events/277964646015658/?ref=br_rs
The top four teams from the preliminary bouts will move on to final stage, and the winner of finals will be deemed Voices of Today 2017 Slam Champions. Finals will include a feature from the amazing Rabbit Richards & Charlie Petch
Price:
$25 over 25, $10 under 25
This event is included in a festival pass. Festival passes can be purchased for $40 (25 and under) / $50 (over 25) at
https://college.snapd.com/events/view/1076288
*message us if you want to come but can't afford to*
Throughout the week there will be preliminary bouts:
https://www.facebook.com/events/1294295210680062/?ref=br_rs
https://www.facebook.com/events/277964646015658/?ref=br_rs
The top four teams from the preliminary bouts will move on to final stage, and the winner of finals will be deemed Voices of Today 2017 Slam Champions. Finals will include a feature from the amazing Rabbit Richards & Charlie Petch
Price:
$25 over 25, $10 under 25
This event is included in a festival pass. Festival passes can be purchased for $40 (25 and under) / $50 (over 25) at
https://college.snapd.com/events/view/1076288
*message us if you want to come but can't afford to*
Windsor Poetry Slam Wed July 25th, 8pm, Phog Lounge
Lovelies, this has been cooking for a while. I'm so excited to be featuring with lovely Windsor! Come out for a great show, I know they have some amazing poets there! Let's have us a grand ol time in the city! Here's their blurb.
We're back for another edition of the Windsor Poetry Slam and yes, it's going to be amazing! Taking place at Phog Lounge on Tuesday, July 25th! Doors will be open at 7:30 pm, show start will be 8pm. If you want to slam please be there by 7:45pm at the latest to sign up.
As always, two rounds of three-minute poems. All work must be original but it can be work you've performed before. 12 spots to sign up for the slam, if more than 12 poets sign up a random draw will be held. There will be cash prizes!
The show also has 3 open mic slots capped at 5 minutes for those who aren't interested in competing.
We're back for another edition of the Windsor Poetry Slam and yes, it's going to be amazing! Taking place at Phog Lounge on Tuesday, July 25th! Doors will be open at 7:30 pm, show start will be 8pm. If you want to slam please be there by 7:45pm at the latest to sign up.
As always, two rounds of three-minute poems. All work must be original but it can be work you've performed before. 12 spots to sign up for the slam, if more than 12 poets sign up a random draw will be held. There will be cash prizes!
The show also has 3 open mic slots capped at 5 minutes for those who aren't interested in competing.
Love Poetry Festival honouring Milton Acorn and Gwen MacEwen Queen Books, Sat, July 29th, 5 to 7pm
The Love Poetry Festival honouring Milton Acorn and Gwen MacEwen featuring: George Elliott Clarke, Patrick Connors, James Deahl & Norma Linder, Karen Mulhallen, Charlie C Petch, Robert Priest, Bänoo Zan with emcee Michelle Alfano.
We will each be reading a love poem from Acorn or MacEwen and speaking our sweet and harrowing truths of love, lust and leaving. I am truly honoured to be a part of this lineup. My gosh, let's go
We will each be reading a love poem from Acorn or MacEwen and speaking our sweet and harrowing truths of love, lust and leaving. I am truly honoured to be a part of this lineup. My gosh, let's go
Montreal - July 2nd Throw Collective Poetry Slam 8pm, Le Divan Orange
Zut Alors! I'm so excited to be doing a show out Montreal way! I hope to see you all there. I know they have a grand lineup of poets like the World Poetry Slam winner Amelie Prevost and Rabbit Richards and Moe Clark... Formidable! Come for a manifique show
Le Divan Orange
4234 Boul St-Laurent
Sign up for the open mic and competition starts at 7, the show starts at 8. Entry is $5 for students and members of the QWF; $7 for the general public. All competing poets must have two poems prepared, each 3 minutes or less. No props, no costumes, no musical instruments, no animal acts, but reading materials are welcome onstage. Team pieces are also welcome!
Le Divan Orange
4234 Boul St-Laurent
Sign up for the open mic and competition starts at 7, the show starts at 8. Entry is $5 for students and members of the QWF; $7 for the general public. All competing poets must have two poems prepared, each 3 minutes or less. No props, no costumes, no musical instruments, no animal acts, but reading materials are welcome onstage. Team pieces are also welcome!
Pride Roundtable - VillageFest 17 - Toronto - Church & Maitland Mainstage - Sat Jun 17th 1230-2pm
LGBTQ WRITERS ROUNDTABLE PRIDE 2017
SATURDAY JUNE 17
I will be reading and being interviewed by Mark Tara of #RainbowCountry on CIUT 89.5 FM as a part of VillageFest 2017. Find me in great company on the mainstage at Church and Maitland from 12:30-2:00pm
LGBT Spoken Word
SATURDAY June 17
12:30-2:00pm.
LINE UP
Andrew A Sutherland - Horror Writer
Andrew Robertson - Horror Writer
Sephera Giron - Horror Writer
Tanya Neumeyer- Poet
Joie Lamar- Writer
Cheryl Wright - Writer
SATURDAY JUNE 17
I will be reading and being interviewed by Mark Tara of #RainbowCountry on CIUT 89.5 FM as a part of VillageFest 2017. Find me in great company on the mainstage at Church and Maitland from 12:30-2:00pm
LGBT Spoken Word
SATURDAY June 17
12:30-2:00pm.
LINE UP
Andrew A Sutherland - Horror Writer
Andrew Robertson - Horror Writer
Sephera Giron - Horror Writer
Tanya Neumeyer- Poet
Joie Lamar- Writer
Cheryl Wright - Writer
Pedestrian Sundays - Kensington Market - Sun June 25th - noon till 1 -Pow Wow Cafe
Capturing Fire - Queer Summit & Slam, Washington DC, June 8th &9th
My yearly refuelling of all that is good in the world! I'm so happy to announce that I will be hosting and performing at the first Gender Non Conforming showcase - That's So They - at the Keegan Theatre Jun 9th 330-5pm then performing at the Capturing Fire After Party at Busboys & Poets at 11pm. Egads you have to see these poets, this festival, this massive heart. Hot Damn is alll over this one too! With our winner D'Scribe competing and showing up in all the ways. www.capfireslam.org
May 3rd - Tongues of Fire - Spoken Word Feature & workshop (workshop 2pm venue TBA)
May 4th - Gabriola Island - Roxy Theatre 7pm doors 730 show - Mel Malarkey Gets the Bum's Rush - The Vaudeville play!
May 8th - 13th - Saskatoon Poetic Arts Festival - Mel Malarkey and Workshop
May 14th - Tonight It's Poetry - Spoken Word Feature
May 4th - Gabriola Island - Roxy Theatre 7pm doors 730 show - Mel Malarkey Gets the Bum's Rush - The Vaudeville play!
May 8th - 13th - Saskatoon Poetic Arts Festival - Mel Malarkey and Workshop
May 14th - Tonight It's Poetry - Spoken Word Feature
OCAD Feminist Art Conference
So happy to be returning to this very necessary and totally impressive art conference.
The FAC runs from Jan 10th to 21st at the Ontario College of Art & Design (The Great Hall, 100 McCaul st Toronto). So many great galleries and talks going on as well as an indie artist marketplace. Check their info and schedule here
I will be doing a performance and Q&A with fellow artists, Andrea Thompson & Lynx Sainte-Marie.
This will be on Jan 21st from 2:45 to 3:45, come see this great event. Support the arts and meet new people! Register here
The FAC runs from Jan 10th to 21st at the Ontario College of Art & Design (The Great Hall, 100 McCaul st Toronto). So many great galleries and talks going on as well as an indie artist marketplace. Check their info and schedule here
I will be doing a performance and Q&A with fellow artists, Andrea Thompson & Lynx Sainte-Marie.
This will be on Jan 21st from 2:45 to 3:45, come see this great event. Support the arts and meet new people! Register here
Free Workshop, Sony Centre for the Arts - Feb 14th 5:30 to 6:30
Feburary 14 - Love Your Embarrassment with Cathy Charlie Petch
Class capacity: 30 participants, Registration to open in January, scroll down to find out more here
In this writing and performance workshop we will explore what is supposed to make us embarrassed and learn how to overcome the fears of the stage. Find those parts of you that need to be celebrated despite your fears of speaking out about it. Then learn how to bring that onstage, how to use a microphone, find your light, how to win over the attention of your audience and all the ways you can shine. We will have writing prompts and will read these new creations in a space where we can be proud of what we think should make us feel shame. Let's be unapologetically human together! Bring a paper, pen and passion. Perform on the same stage Prince did. OMG PRINCE
Class capacity: 30 participants, Registration to open in January, scroll down to find out more here
In this writing and performance workshop we will explore what is supposed to make us embarrassed and learn how to overcome the fears of the stage. Find those parts of you that need to be celebrated despite your fears of speaking out about it. Then learn how to bring that onstage, how to use a microphone, find your light, how to win over the attention of your audience and all the ways you can shine. We will have writing prompts and will read these new creations in a space where we can be proud of what we think should make us feel shame. Let's be unapologetically human together! Bring a paper, pen and passion. Perform on the same stage Prince did. OMG PRINCE
Guelph! Nov 25th - VENUE CHANGE, Van Gogh's Ear, 10 Wyndham St. N - 10/pwyc 7pm
One of my very favourite spoken word scenes is in Guelph. Do come out and see not only this series I run and host (I'll do the opening host part then feature later, as requested, this is not some wild foray into the potential of my own ego) but also have an evening with some of the best poets around. Their team won the Canadian Nationals and it's a great queer scene. Open mic! Prize for weirdest poem "The Queirdo". Supporting this series should not be a radical thing but these days, it sure is.
Hello Guelph! We are so excited to bring Hot Damn It's a Queer Slam to one of our dream towns. The founder of Hot Damn, Cathy Charlie Petch, has been asked by Guelph Spoken Word to feature this one, and what the hell? That sounds like fun. As always there's and open mic and we will sign you up for the 2 round slam! Rules and info about our Queer Circuit is found at www.queerslam.com. Don't forget the winner qualifies for our finals at Buddies In Bad Times Theatre on April 15th and if you're the Grand Prize Winner, you get a trip and accommodations for the International Queer Summit & Slam - Capturing Fire in Washington DC
Wild Writers @ The Poetry Jazz Cafe! 224 Augusta Ave 7pm show Dec 5th
This wonderful series curated by Georgia Wilder will be hosting myself and Patrick Conners. I will be doing a full set of poetry and music and there's an open mic as well. This show is always followed by some of the best Jazz in the city so come out! Rock the mic, stay and enjoy the wonderful feeling of being in another universe where everything is timeless and cool!
*Author's note: I'm not even sure if "cool" is cool anymore haha
*Author's note: I'm not even sure if "cool" is cool anymore haha
York Slam - SpeakerBox - Wed Dec 14th 63o doors/sign up - Falcon & Firkin 10300 Yonge St, Richmond Hill
Holy moley, this show is going to be on something called TELEVISION. Check out what this great scene has wrangled. I will be doing the feature this fabevening and you can catch it later on Rogers. They have a wonderful scene. Come for the 630 sign up, it will be open to people for both the open mic and a two round slam. Having been their first rep for Canadian Indies, I've got a real special place in my heart for them. Another place where people make me feel at home and inspired. Here's their website
We've been picked up for our first televised season by Rogers TV York, we will be airing new episodes each Wednesday night at 10pm on Channel 63 (or channel 10) in all of York Region running from Wed Oct 12 until Dec. 28. We also repeat the episodes on Friday and Saturday night. For the most up to date schedule please check out Rogers website here.
We've been picked up for our first televised season by Rogers TV York, we will be airing new episodes each Wednesday night at 10pm on Channel 63 (or channel 10) in all of York Region running from Wed Oct 12 until Dec. 28. We also repeat the episodes on Friday and Saturday night. For the most up to date schedule please check out Rogers website here.
Art Bar - Free Times Cafe 8pm show Tues Nov 22nd - $5
This incredible series has been going on for 40+ years! In these tough times, we look to poetry and art for escape and direction. There is an open mic for your voice and a great lineup for your enjoyment. Let's have us a great night. Here's the bios of my fellow features.
Cover: $5 (Website: www.artbar.org)
Open mic ($20 first prize and a chance to be published). You need to register before Friday midnight to enter the competition at www.artbar.org
Allan Briesmaster:
Allan Briesmaster is a poet, publisher and freelance editor. He is one of the two Executive Directors of Quattro Books, and he also has his own micro press, Aeolus House. Books he has edited have won or been short-listed for several national awards. His poems have appeared in numerous journals and anthologies, and he has given readings and talks and led workshops in venues from Victoria to St. John's. His most recent full-length books are Against the Flight of Spring (2013), and River Neither (2015). He lives in Thornhill.
Dina E. Cox:
Dina E. Cox is a poet and a musician (French horn), mother to four, and a grandmother to twelve, who hails from New Brunswick, where she returns periodically for inspiration. She only began publishing poetry and occasional freelance articles, after turning fifty. She is a member of the League of Canadian Poets, and Haiku Canada, and a past winner of the Betty Drevniok Award, the premier award for haiku in English, in Canada. Dina published her first collection of poetry, small flames, in 2012 with Signature Editions, and is currently working on a new manuscript of her poetry.
Cover: $5 (Website: www.artbar.org)
Open mic ($20 first prize and a chance to be published). You need to register before Friday midnight to enter the competition at www.artbar.org
Allan Briesmaster:
Allan Briesmaster is a poet, publisher and freelance editor. He is one of the two Executive Directors of Quattro Books, and he also has his own micro press, Aeolus House. Books he has edited have won or been short-listed for several national awards. His poems have appeared in numerous journals and anthologies, and he has given readings and talks and led workshops in venues from Victoria to St. John's. His most recent full-length books are Against the Flight of Spring (2013), and River Neither (2015). He lives in Thornhill.
Dina E. Cox:
Dina E. Cox is a poet and a musician (French horn), mother to four, and a grandmother to twelve, who hails from New Brunswick, where she returns periodically for inspiration. She only began publishing poetry and occasional freelance articles, after turning fifty. She is a member of the League of Canadian Poets, and Haiku Canada, and a past winner of the Betty Drevniok Award, the premier award for haiku in English, in Canada. Dina published her first collection of poetry, small flames, in 2012 with Signature Editions, and is currently working on a new manuscript of her poetry.
Mel Malarkey Gets The Bum's Rush @ the Canadian Festival Of Spoken Word Winnepeg! Wed Oct 26th, 9 to 10pm
Big great news! The Canadian Festival for Spoken Word wants my sweet full length spoken word/theatre show
It's the last night at the Vagabond Theatre and Mel can't bear to tell the audience. She keeps the bawdy acts going and the elixir flowing. In private, she delivers odes and tells stories of her "Vaudeville theatre for the unrefined". Travel back to 1931onederful and get lost in the haze of hilarity. Donkeys! Female impersonator Fie Fie I Adore-say! Victor the Crooner! The Musical Saw! Marlene DeDick! Gerta The Flirta! The Hurdy Gurdy Dirty Birdies!
Don't be a wet blanket, a killjoy, it's all jake kittens. Come get the bum's rush with us.
Special thanks to the Ontario Arts Council for their support for this full length theatre/spoken word showstravaganza
For tickets to this an many more incredible events during this outstanding festival click here
It's the last night at the Vagabond Theatre and Mel can't bear to tell the audience. She keeps the bawdy acts going and the elixir flowing. In private, she delivers odes and tells stories of her "Vaudeville theatre for the unrefined". Travel back to 1931onederful and get lost in the haze of hilarity. Donkeys! Female impersonator Fie Fie I Adore-say! Victor the Crooner! The Musical Saw! Marlene DeDick! Gerta The Flirta! The Hurdy Gurdy Dirty Birdies!
Don't be a wet blanket, a killjoy, it's all jake kittens. Come get the bum's rush with us.
Special thanks to the Ontario Arts Council for their support for this full length theatre/spoken word showstravaganza
For tickets to this an many more incredible events during this outstanding festival click here
Kennedy Pub Thurs Oct 27th 7-9pm live improv & poetry Winnipeg
An improv show based on live written poetry at the KNNDY Pub. A poetry show based on improvised hijinx. What will be seen here will never be seen again. Starring Andrea del Campo, Toby Hughes, Steve Currie, Cathy Charlie Petch, Greame Leaver and Jillian Christmas.
This is going to be so much durn fun I'M TELLING YOU
October 27 @ 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
The KNNDY,
330 Kennedy St
Winnipeg, Manitoba
Tickets 10 dollars or heck, get a whole festival pass to this here!
This is going to be so much durn fun I'M TELLING YOU
October 27 @ 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
The KNNDY,
330 Kennedy St
Winnipeg, Manitoba
Tickets 10 dollars or heck, get a whole festival pass to this here!
The Hustle Panel, Sat Oct 29, 11-1
How to survive and thrive as an artist in today's landscape. Touring, grant getting, and working with techs to make professional, profitable art.
Panel hosts: Isaac Bond, David Silverberg, Cathy Charlie Petch and Graham Hnatiu
Manitoba Writer's Guild, 100 Arthur St #218
Reserve a spot today! The facebook event is here and for those not on facebook, contact me at cathypetch@gmail
Panel hosts: Isaac Bond, David Silverberg, Cathy Charlie Petch and Graham Hnatiu
Manitoba Writer's Guild, 100 Arthur St #218
Reserve a spot today! The facebook event is here and for those not on facebook, contact me at cathypetch@gmail
Poetry and music Oct 21st - Duffy's Tavern 8pm
Reel to Reel Film Fest - Oct 13th Brigantine Room, Harbourfront Centre 8pm
I'll be doing an original piece I wrote for the film "The Mermaid" which is an incredible short. Tears were spilled for sure
Director: Sara Werner
Sara and her brother, Deji, who suffers from schizophrenia, explore the beauty and challenges of this chronic illness during an eventful afternoon with Deji’s goldfish.
Each of these short films have some wonderful poets partnered with them like Ian Keteku, Tanya Neumeyer, David Silverberg and more. Buy your tickets and read a bit about the short films here
"Toronto Poetry Slam presents a night of poetry with purpose. Join us as the city’s top spoken word artists share poems inspired by three of our short films. From meditations on schizophrenia and low-income housing to thoughts on the refugee experience, this is a night of important rhymes you’ll remember."
Director: Sara Werner
Sara and her brother, Deji, who suffers from schizophrenia, explore the beauty and challenges of this chronic illness during an eventful afternoon with Deji’s goldfish.
Each of these short films have some wonderful poets partnered with them like Ian Keteku, Tanya Neumeyer, David Silverberg and more. Buy your tickets and read a bit about the short films here
"Toronto Poetry Slam presents a night of poetry with purpose. Join us as the city’s top spoken word artists share poems inspired by three of our short films. From meditations on schizophrenia and low-income housing to thoughts on the refugee experience, this is a night of important rhymes you’ll remember."
Mel takes The Barfly in Montreal, Aug 29th 8pm 10 dollars
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Magnifique! We are so pleased to be bringing this show to such a kick ass venue. I've had many a great show at The Barfly in Montreal and I"m so happy to let people know that myself and Dicky The Pianist will be doing a one night only show on the way to the Atlantic Fringe. Come get scrootched, jazzed, lit, potted and fried to the hat with us! It's the last night in the Vagabond Theatre and Mel's got the show of a lifetime ready for you.
Barfly 4062 Boul St-Laurent Doors 730pm Show 8pm to 9pm |
Atlantic Fringe! Sept 2nd to 11th - Halifax
Incredible news! Mel's first fringe! Me and Dickie The Pianist are hitting the road! We cannot wait to be back in Halifax with all its gorgeousity and be a part of the Fringe.
We've got us a wonderful spot in the Rainbow Room at Menz & Mollyz which seems like a great place to have such a bodacious and queer show.
You know it's going to be a great time when you're at Mel's Place. This is NOT the theatre of the refined...
Find out more about the Atlantic Fringe lineup and how to get tickets click here
We've got us a wonderful spot in the Rainbow Room at Menz & Mollyz which seems like a great place to have such a bodacious and queer show.
You know it's going to be a great time when you're at Mel's Place. This is NOT the theatre of the refined...
Find out more about the Atlantic Fringe lineup and how to get tickets click here
Halifax Slam Sept 3rd - 730pm @ Alteregos
Poets for Progress invites you to another round of spoken word in support of local charities, non-profits, and community groups!
Doors 'open' at 7:00pm, come grab your drinks and a good seat, open mic will start at 7:30pm followed by our slam, and Cathy Charlie Petch is our stellar feature for the night
Anyone is welcome to perform at the open mic! You do not have to perform spoken word, we welcome story-tellers, musicians, comedians or even people who would like the read pieces from other poets and writers (as long as you state the author's name).
To request more information about building partnerships, raising money or anything else please contact our Poetry For Progress Team: [email protected]
Alteregos Cafe & Catering
2193 Gottingen St, Halifax, Nova Scotia B3K 3B5
Doors 'open' at 7:00pm, come grab your drinks and a good seat, open mic will start at 7:30pm followed by our slam, and Cathy Charlie Petch is our stellar feature for the night
Anyone is welcome to perform at the open mic! You do not have to perform spoken word, we welcome story-tellers, musicians, comedians or even people who would like the read pieces from other poets and writers (as long as you state the author's name).
To request more information about building partnerships, raising money or anything else please contact our Poetry For Progress Team: [email protected]
Alteregos Cafe & Catering
2193 Gottingen St, Halifax, Nova Scotia B3K 3B5
Learning the Language of Tech - Workshop Sept 7th 10am, The Bus Stop Theatre Coop, Halifax
Learn The Language of Tech
Wednesday September 7th, 10AM
The Bus Stop Theatre Coop
2 Hours - $10.00
When trying to create something on stage, in front of a camera (or both), the learning curve can feel overwhelming and intimidating. You know what you want, maybe even how you'd like it to look, but because you lack the technical knowledge and terminology and it can be challenging to articulate and assert your vision.
Find out the answers to your questions, including: What lighting options do I have in most theatres? What is a tech run? How can I light a video project on a budget? What's a special? How do I find my light? How do I create a tech friendly script? What’s that light called that does that thing? What can I ask of my photographer?
Cathy Charlie Petch has been a theatre lighting designer, photographer and lighting tech for film and video for over two decades. This workshop will give you a basic understanding of these mediums and, just as importantly, the terminology to communicate and collaborate with technicians.
Learn how to speak the behind the scenes language of stage and screen and see your projects flourish with new fluency.
Be prepared to take notes. There will be time for questions as well.
Pedestrian Sundays - Kensington Market July 31st! - 21 Kensington Ave - Noon till 1pm
Toronto Poetry Slam and The League Of Canadian Poets Presents! Myself and a few other wonderful poets will be doing so guerilla style poetry outside of the Kensington Lodge from Noon till 1pm. It's always fun and what a great place to spend a Sunday afternoon. So many wonderful things going on! Come say hi and i'll give you the mic.
My next show happens right after in the same glorious neighbourhood! Keep scrolling!
My next show happens right after in the same glorious neighbourhood! Keep scrolling!
Secret Handshake Gallery, July 31st 2-5pm - bill bisset's beautiful gallery, 170a Baldwin St 2nd floor
Poetry afternoons are just better when they're with dear friends and wonderful talents. bill bisset continues to impress and enchant audiences with his wonderful Secret Handshake series.
I'm so proud to be asked to do this again. I know he's chosen some poets who are going to expand your mind and maybe make the physical earth disappear for a while.
Join us! Tiny Sandwiches! Big words! And little words done just right. Oh and maybe a little saw xoxo - PWYC
I'm so proud to be asked to do this again. I know he's chosen some poets who are going to expand your mind and maybe make the physical earth disappear for a while.
Join us! Tiny Sandwiches! Big words! And little words done just right. Oh and maybe a little saw xoxo - PWYC
BAM! The Youth Slam - Wed Aug 10th - 6pm - Central Pub
HOSTED BY: SCRIBE
Where? The Central at 603 Markham St.
When? Wednesday, August 10th, 2016
5:30PM – DOORS OPEN
6:00PM – SIGN UPS
6:30PM - OPEN MIC/SLAM STARTS
Slammers: Age 12-22
Open Mic and Audience: ALL AGES
Cost? $5 Cover
Follow us on Twitter and Instagram:
@BAMyouthSlam
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Toronto's only monthly Youth Poetry Slam, BAM!, is back in full effect for June featuring the incredible Cathy Petch!
INTERESTED IN COMPETING?
Rules of a BAM! Poetry Slam are quite simple. Bring 3 poems, just in case. There we will have 12 slots open for youth poets ages 12-19 - 2-3 rounds (based on number of competitors), 3 minutes with a 10 second grace period for every poet to drop their fire, with a 0.5 penalty for every 10 seconds afterwards. No props, no instruments, etc.
There is an OPEN MIC available for ALL AGES for anyone that wants to share his or her works on stage!
INTERESTED IN QUALIFYING FOR THE BAM! TEAM?
Basically, from now monthly to September, finishing 1st will get 5 points, 2nd place gets 3 points, 3rd place gets 2 points, and the remaining youth slammers gets 1 point. In October, the top 12 point leaders in descending order will be invited to our October semi finals to compete to be on the BAM! Toronto Youth Poetry Slam Team! Priority will be given to those who have competed 2 months or more.
SO COME THRU AND BRING A FRIEND OR TWO! Let’s pack the house and have a great time! You will not regret it. There will be fire, blood and poetry! See you there!
Where? The Central at 603 Markham St.
When? Wednesday, August 10th, 2016
5:30PM – DOORS OPEN
6:00PM – SIGN UPS
6:30PM - OPEN MIC/SLAM STARTS
Slammers: Age 12-22
Open Mic and Audience: ALL AGES
Cost? $5 Cover
Follow us on Twitter and Instagram:
@BAMyouthSlam
-----
Toronto's only monthly Youth Poetry Slam, BAM!, is back in full effect for June featuring the incredible Cathy Petch!
INTERESTED IN COMPETING?
Rules of a BAM! Poetry Slam are quite simple. Bring 3 poems, just in case. There we will have 12 slots open for youth poets ages 12-19 - 2-3 rounds (based on number of competitors), 3 minutes with a 10 second grace period for every poet to drop their fire, with a 0.5 penalty for every 10 seconds afterwards. No props, no instruments, etc.
There is an OPEN MIC available for ALL AGES for anyone that wants to share his or her works on stage!
INTERESTED IN QUALIFYING FOR THE BAM! TEAM?
Basically, from now monthly to September, finishing 1st will get 5 points, 2nd place gets 3 points, 3rd place gets 2 points, and the remaining youth slammers gets 1 point. In October, the top 12 point leaders in descending order will be invited to our October semi finals to compete to be on the BAM! Toronto Youth Poetry Slam Team! Priority will be given to those who have competed 2 months or more.
SO COME THRU AND BRING A FRIEND OR TWO! Let’s pack the house and have a great time! You will not regret it. There will be fire, blood and poetry! See you there!
Hamilton Festival of Friends - Aug 7 1pm then 430pm
Hooohaw! The legendary Festival of Friends is giving me an hour to show what kind of sorcery is Spoken Word. It's going to be an incredible ride and I'm so excited to be a part of this 40+ year festival. Come find me at 1pm at Stage 2.
Then my beerhall orchestra The Silver Hearts are going to be on the Main Stage for 430 pm. The whole weekend is full of so many incredible acts like The Sadies, Randy Bachman, Teenage Head... don't miss it and find out more here
Then my beerhall orchestra The Silver Hearts are going to be on the Main Stage for 430 pm. The whole weekend is full of so many incredible acts like The Sadies, Randy Bachman, Teenage Head... don't miss it and find out more here
Capturing Fire, International Queer Summit & Slam - Washington DC Jun 3-5
Hot Damn! I will be traveling with a group of wonderful LGBTQ+ artists and the winner of our Hot Damn It's A Queer Slam winner Kay Kessirer to this incredible festival. I'll be doing some hosting and showcasing events as well as seeing some of the most beautiful people I know for the third year in a row.
Do not miss this sacred and profane bit of loveliness orchestrated by my Dildette partner Regie Cabico! Their website will be posted soon and I know the lineup is like a thousand disco balls of excellence!
More about Cap Fire here and my queer slam Ontario Circuit here
Do not miss this sacred and profane bit of loveliness orchestrated by my Dildette partner Regie Cabico! Their website will be posted soon and I know the lineup is like a thousand disco balls of excellence!
More about Cap Fire here and my queer slam Ontario Circuit here
Jun 12th - Plasticine Finale - 630 Show, Victory Cafe
This is the final goodbye to this series I hosted for 7 years along with organizer Michael Fraser.
It has been hosted by Nicki Ward for the past few years and curated by Susie Berg and Rod Weatherbie.
It's a great source of love and excellent work. We'll be having a showcase of some of our collective and other favourite authors. Come celebrate with us!
This is the final goodbye to this series I hosted for 7 years along with organizer Michael Fraser.
It has been hosted by Nicki Ward for the past few years and curated by Susie Berg and Rod Weatherbie.
It's a great source of love and excellent work. We'll be having a showcase of some of our collective and other favourite authors. Come celebrate with us!
Tools To Talk To Techs! Canadian Writer's Summit - June 17th- 19th
I will be presenting my essay "De-Mystifying The Language of Tech" at this incredible Writer's Summit. As a Theatre and Film lighting technician I know that language can hold you back when speaking with us Techs. This gives you all the tools to understand the simple set up in any of these mediums and the language that will have you collaborating rather than feeling there is an obstacle of language. It will be published as well. I will be doing workshops around this in the future, contact me here or sign up as they come! Sound and lighting are both discussed. The Feminist Caucus is pleased to present the panel “Performing Women: Playwrights and Performance Poets” at the Canadian Writers’ Summit taking place this June in Toronto. Find out more information about the Summit, and the League’s Annual Conference, at poets.ca/conference.
Friday, June 17, from 7:45 to 9 am, we will host our breakfast business meeting and open readings. We will be launching the anthology Women & Multimedia, Poetry Collaboration/Elaborations, with work from Di Brandt, Terry Carter, Penn Kemp, Moe Clark, Jude Neale, and Cathy Petch. This anthology is edited by Penn Kemp, and contains papers published in our Living Archives Series. This event is free to members of the League, and may be attended without registering for the Summit. Please contact the League office at [email protected] for more information.
Friday, June 17, from 7:45 to 9 am, we will host our breakfast business meeting and open readings. We will be launching the anthology Women & Multimedia, Poetry Collaboration/Elaborations, with work from Di Brandt, Terry Carter, Penn Kemp, Moe Clark, Jude Neale, and Cathy Petch. This anthology is edited by Penn Kemp, and contains papers published in our Living Archives Series. This event is free to members of the League, and may be attended without registering for the Summit. Please contact the League office at [email protected] for more information.
Book Fair! Artisans At Work
June 25th, noon-4pm 2701 Danforth (near Woodbine)
Artisans at Work is an incredible space in Toronto's East End.
There are so many locally made gifts and treat yourselves to be had in this space. It's been making my neighbourhood a happy place for a few years now.
I'm so happy that they are starting up a book fair! Come down to see the readings, to drift around the great space that's been curated with kick ass creations.
Pick up a book directly from its author!
Hope to see you there!
Glad Day Kick Off to Pride! Proud Voices Poetrix
Mon June 27th - 8 to 10pm Glad Day Books 598 Yonge
POETRIX
Join us for a queer poetry marathon with 16 poets. This will be an evening of words you won't soon forget!
Featuring short readings by:
Adam Zachary, Cathy Petch, Davelle Barnes, Jaene F. Castrillon, Jasbina Justice, Jenna Tenn-Yuk, Jennifer Alicia, Jim Nason, Justin Chander, Lue Boileau, Mikki Delverde, Molly, Rory Jade Grey,Teddy Syrette,Vero Diaz, Ziy von B
This is a FREE event.
PROUD VOICES is the Toronto Pride Literary program organized by Glad Day Bookshop in partnership with Pride Toronto.
Join us for a queer poetry marathon with 16 poets. This will be an evening of words you won't soon forget!
Featuring short readings by:
Adam Zachary, Cathy Petch, Davelle Barnes, Jaene F. Castrillon, Jasbina Justice, Jenna Tenn-Yuk, Jennifer Alicia, Jim Nason, Justin Chander, Lue Boileau, Mikki Delverde, Molly, Rory Jade Grey,Teddy Syrette,Vero Diaz, Ziy von B
This is a FREE event.
PROUD VOICES is the Toronto Pride Literary program organized by Glad Day Bookshop in partnership with Pride Toronto.
My Home is - The Dawes Crossing Workshop with East End Arts - Open to all ages.
Do the workshop, then the show and we'll compensate you for your time. Register now! Jul2nd 1-4pm
Join Slam Coach Cathy Petch for a guided free-write on themes of home, place, and transition. Participants will be encouraged to bring their own poems on this theme and Cathy will give them kind feedback on performance and style. Be brave, be bold, be you.
Saturday, July 2, 2016, 1- 4pm (Part 1)
"My Home Is…" - Spoken Word & Poetry Workshop
Dawes Library, 416 Dawes Road
Workshop space is limited.
Please Register: http://eastendarts.ca/spring-2016-dawes-crossing/
Saturday, July 2, 2016, 1- 4pm (Part 1)
"My Home Is…" - Spoken Word & Poetry Workshop
Dawes Library, 416 Dawes Road
Workshop space is limited.
Please Register: http://eastendarts.ca/spring-2016-dawes-crossing/
My Home Is- Show at Dawes Crossing 7pm July 9th
Enjoy a magical evening of spoken word and music at Dawes Crossing, where local residents will present works created in the “My Home Is…” workshop along with musical accompaniment. Let poetry and music illuminate this wonderful work of art and place.
(Rain date – July 10, 2016, 7-8:30pm)
Featuring musical performances by Cathy Petch and Cathy Nosaty.
(Rain date – July 10, 2016, 7-8:30pm)
Featuring musical performances by Cathy Petch and Cathy Nosaty.
Birth - D'Beatstro - May 27th - 8pm 10 bucks or pwyc
I am so excited to celebrate the birth of one of the dearest people on this planet. The musician and storyteller Caroline Brown.
Since she showed up at Queer Slam I've gone from fan to friend and I hope you can make it out to celebrate this LatinX Transwoman superstar's time here on earth.
This will be a gorgeous lineup of music, dance and spoken word. Don't miss out!
Also D'Beastro is a vegan restaurant and home to some of the best shows in the city!
Since she showed up at Queer Slam I've gone from fan to friend and I hope you can make it out to celebrate this LatinX Transwoman superstar's time here on earth.
This will be a gorgeous lineup of music, dance and spoken word. Don't miss out!
Also D'Beastro is a vegan restaurant and home to some of the best shows in the city!
Louder Than A Bomb - Hamilton On May 6th- 14th - Queeriosity
I am beyond proud to have been asked to be a part of Hamilton Youth Poetry's (HYP Slam) hosting of this incredible festival. On May 6th (6 to 9pm) I will be hosting a vaudevillian themed showcase of incredible LGBTQ+ poets at The Art Gallery of Hamilton. Here's the write up and FB Event.
Queeriosity is a performance showcase dedicated to voices who are reshaping the conversation about sexuality, identity and community. This event is a safe space for LBGTQ artists to speak their truths to a supportive audience and inspire emerging artists. This event will be hosted by Cathy Petch and will feature performances from Alessandra Naccarato Truth Is Ellipsis, Bethanne Ellipsis, Andre Prefontaine and Victoria Daniels!
The next day I will be facilitating a workshop in the Beaver Exhibit. You heard me. More details about this splendid event to come!
Queeriosity is a performance showcase dedicated to voices who are reshaping the conversation about sexuality, identity and community. This event is a safe space for LBGTQ artists to speak their truths to a supportive audience and inspire emerging artists. This event will be hosted by Cathy Petch and will feature performances from Alessandra Naccarato Truth Is Ellipsis, Bethanne Ellipsis, Andre Prefontaine and Victoria Daniels!
The next day I will be facilitating a workshop in the Beaver Exhibit. You heard me. More details about this splendid event to come!
Tattoo Exhibition at The Royal Ontario Museum! Fri Apr 29 #ROMink
Big thanks to Inkslingers for making this happen. Friday night events at the ROM are legendary. I have been so excited to see this exhibition and now I, Patrick De Belen and Spencer Butt are going to be a part of the opening party.
For me, my tattoos have been a part of major transitions in my life, losing a mentor, finding my artistic voice, leaving behind school for a career in lighting for stage and film, then leaving my day job to be a full time artist. They are the patterns on the doors I walk through to get closer to myself.
Come see us on the 4th floor where there's a lounge, Dj Simon Jian, and R&B performer Brendan Philip. We'll be interweaving our words and flexing out tats from 8pm on. Then DANCING!!!
Pre sales are through the roof but they will hold back tickets on the night. See the whole evening's lineup here
Mel Malarkey at The Cameron House - 6pm Show! Sun April 10th
Kittens! We had such a good run in Peterborough, I wanted to have us a homecoming show! Email me to reserve a spot and be there by 5:45 to guarantee!
t's the last night at the Vagabond Theatre and Mel can't bear to tell the audience. She keeps the acts and laughter going, then in private she delivers odes, and tells stories of how she came to be the owner of her "Vaudeville theatre for the unrefined". Travel back to 1931onederful and get lost in the haze of hilarity. Donkeys! Victor the Crooner! The Musical Saw! Marlene DeDick! Gerta The Flirta! The Hurdy Gurdy Dirty Birdies! Dickie the Pianist
Don't be a wet blanket, a killjoy, it's all jake, kittens. Come get the bum's rush with us.
Reviews are in!
"Comedy, pathos, charm, poetry, character, perfect pacing, ingenious staging, brilliant directing and the best musical saw I've ever heard -- not to mention a full house of enthusiastic and superbly responsive theatre-goers -- combined to create a dramatic experience that truly ran the gamut: from belly laugh to the most touching and rarefied emotions. Your own performance, breathtaking, dazzling, and seductively convincing, culminated in a zany and mesmerizing final segment that sets a new high-water mark in live theatre. " Scott McKay, Award Winning Author
"With her brilliant performance touching on a range of topics, Cathy not only covers the death of vaudeville and the rise of the movie houses, but also the sexual politics of the theatre during the vaudeville era.
She also manages to create a number of colourful characters that we never see. Characters like Victor the Crooner, Marlene DeDick, Gerta the Flerta, and the Hurdy Gurdy Dirty Birdies becomes so vibrant in our minds through Mel’s descriptions and enthusiasm that they gain the audience’s affections without ever having a physical presence.
Through her words alone, Cathy manages to create an entire vaudeville community that we never see but are bound to love.
Furthermore, Cathy highlights her unusual talent of the musical saw. If you’ve never experienced the art of the musical saw, this may be your only chance." Sam Tweedle, Kawartha Now
"On the Vagabond stage, Mel Malarkey Gets the Bum’s Rush plays out like a classic vaudeville variety show. There is some truly gross and hilarious bawdy humour—the exact kind that pissed off the Puritans and continues to piss off their descendants—as well as boozy song (accompanied by Glasspool’s semi-conscious pianist), drag, and spoken word. A particular highlight is the song about reclaiming the word ‘tramp,’ full of Petch’s signature flowy, sultry spoken-word style and sharp identity politics: “Because you calling me that is just another way of saying ‘business-owning dame who refuses to be tamed.’” Gabe Polluck, Electric City Magazine
t's the last night at the Vagabond Theatre and Mel can't bear to tell the audience. She keeps the acts and laughter going, then in private she delivers odes, and tells stories of how she came to be the owner of her "Vaudeville theatre for the unrefined". Travel back to 1931onederful and get lost in the haze of hilarity. Donkeys! Victor the Crooner! The Musical Saw! Marlene DeDick! Gerta The Flirta! The Hurdy Gurdy Dirty Birdies! Dickie the Pianist
Don't be a wet blanket, a killjoy, it's all jake, kittens. Come get the bum's rush with us.
Reviews are in!
"Comedy, pathos, charm, poetry, character, perfect pacing, ingenious staging, brilliant directing and the best musical saw I've ever heard -- not to mention a full house of enthusiastic and superbly responsive theatre-goers -- combined to create a dramatic experience that truly ran the gamut: from belly laugh to the most touching and rarefied emotions. Your own performance, breathtaking, dazzling, and seductively convincing, culminated in a zany and mesmerizing final segment that sets a new high-water mark in live theatre. " Scott McKay, Award Winning Author
"With her brilliant performance touching on a range of topics, Cathy not only covers the death of vaudeville and the rise of the movie houses, but also the sexual politics of the theatre during the vaudeville era.
She also manages to create a number of colourful characters that we never see. Characters like Victor the Crooner, Marlene DeDick, Gerta the Flerta, and the Hurdy Gurdy Dirty Birdies becomes so vibrant in our minds through Mel’s descriptions and enthusiasm that they gain the audience’s affections without ever having a physical presence.
Through her words alone, Cathy manages to create an entire vaudeville community that we never see but are bound to love.
Furthermore, Cathy highlights her unusual talent of the musical saw. If you’ve never experienced the art of the musical saw, this may be your only chance." Sam Tweedle, Kawartha Now
"On the Vagabond stage, Mel Malarkey Gets the Bum’s Rush plays out like a classic vaudeville variety show. There is some truly gross and hilarious bawdy humour—the exact kind that pissed off the Puritans and continues to piss off their descendants—as well as boozy song (accompanied by Glasspool’s semi-conscious pianist), drag, and spoken word. A particular highlight is the song about reclaiming the word ‘tramp,’ full of Petch’s signature flowy, sultry spoken-word style and sharp identity politics: “Because you calling me that is just another way of saying ‘business-owning dame who refuses to be tamed.’” Gabe Polluck, Electric City Magazine
Versefest Ottawa! Friday March 15th, Festivallll
The famed Festival runs from March 15-20 at Knox Presbyterian Church on Elgin Street in Ottawa. This is a festival that has been going strong since 2011. I'm to be sharing the stage with the dear hearted Kevin Matthews! Here's a write up about the festival from their website. They will have the schedule of awesome up soon.
VERSe Ottawa is a collective of Ottawa organizations who curate and produce reading and performance series. One of the principal strengths of VERSe is the inclusion of written- and spoken word poetry groups, as well as other leaders in the poetry community. In coming together, the members of VERSe Ottawa have created an organization that, we believe, is unique in Canada and, perhaps, North America. The group and its activities are all the more durable since, as a team, VERSe’s activities will not be dependent on any one group or executive body. VERSe membership changes from year to year as series come and go. Check them out at http://versefest.ca
VERSe Ottawa is a collective of Ottawa organizations who curate and produce reading and performance series. One of the principal strengths of VERSe is the inclusion of written- and spoken word poetry groups, as well as other leaders in the poetry community. In coming together, the members of VERSe Ottawa have created an organization that, we believe, is unique in Canada and, perhaps, North America. The group and its activities are all the more durable since, as a team, VERSe’s activities will not be dependent on any one group or executive body. VERSe membership changes from year to year as series come and go. Check them out at http://versefest.ca
Post Feminist Post Launch Party, March 20th Via Skype to Van! FUTURAMA
OK so this is kind of the coolest... I feel like Christian Bok or something.
I'm in this talented as all geddout lineup for the first quarterly edition of The Post Feminist Post. A great place to combine humour, truth and all things that strive to stomp the patriarchy that hurts us all. Here's the deets and if you buy me a drink please don't pour it over the laptop I'll be streaming through.
Join us to to celebrate us turning one year old and printing MORE of what you want! Refreshments served. Readers: Timothy Shay, Cathy Petch and more!!!!!
There will be special draws- WIN ticket to "Rape is Everywhere and it is Real ' comedy night. (sold out show)
The 1st 10 guest get free online subscription and a copy of our first printed issue.
Come by Continental Coffee at 4295 Main st. (26th ave)
Co-hosted by Y's books
See you there
Mel Malarkey Gets The Bum's Rush! The Theatre On King - Peterborough, March 24th to 26th. 10 bucks
Thanks to the support of the Ontario Arts Council and Theatre Trent, my Vaudeville show Mel Malarkey Gets the Bum's Rush is going to happen all professional like! It's the last night at the Vagabond Theatre and Mel can't bear to tell the audience. She puts on a brave face, keeps the acts and laughter going, then in private she delivers odes, goodbyes and tells stories of how she came to be the owner of her "Theatre for the unrefined". Travel back to 1931onederful and get lost in the haze of hilarity. Donkeys! Victor the Crooner! The Musical Saw! Marlene DeDick! Gerta The Flirta! The Hurdy Gurdy Dirty Birdies! Mel goes out in true bombastic style.
The Theatre On King is such a great place. I started my true theatre passion (outside of school) at the Union Theatre, we've forever looked for a new space where art can be art and not some carbon copy Mirvish attempt. There is a home for it here. Don't be a wet blanket, a killjoy, it's all jake, kittens, come get the bum's rush with us. http://ttok.ca
The Theatre On King is such a great place. I started my true theatre passion (outside of school) at the Union Theatre, we've forever looked for a new space where art can be art and not some carbon copy Mirvish attempt. There is a home for it here. Don't be a wet blanket, a killjoy, it's all jake, kittens, come get the bum's rush with us. http://ttok.ca
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No One Writes To The Colonel, March 27th, 8pm 460 College St Toronto
So I made a wonderful new friend this year and now we're celebrating our bromance by doing a show together.
Mona Mousa is an incredible international spoken word star who is also a great curator and unstoppable force in our Canadian Scene. She's currently based in Winnipeg, which is sad news for anyone not living in Winnipeg (like moi) but she's coming here for a "One Night Only" show with Me!!!
I'll be coming off the tail end of my Mel Malarkey show so expect some vaudeville and glorious laughter that comes from the middle of freaking earth. Because poetry is about pulling out demons and dancing with them.
It's been 3 years since Mona Faith has done a show on her home turf in Toronto. Joined by new and old friends come out for a night of poetry and catch up before the Bold Dipped tour crew heads out on the rest of their 2016 US tour
Featuring..
Tom Laveille
Cathy Petch
Larysa Musick
The P.O.E.
$10.00 (+ 1.50 service fee) - order them here
No one write to the colonal
460 College St., Toronto, Ontario M6G 1A1
8:00 doors - 8:30 show
Mona Mousa is an incredible international spoken word star who is also a great curator and unstoppable force in our Canadian Scene. She's currently based in Winnipeg, which is sad news for anyone not living in Winnipeg (like moi) but she's coming here for a "One Night Only" show with Me!!!
I'll be coming off the tail end of my Mel Malarkey show so expect some vaudeville and glorious laughter that comes from the middle of freaking earth. Because poetry is about pulling out demons and dancing with them.
It's been 3 years since Mona Faith has done a show on her home turf in Toronto. Joined by new and old friends come out for a night of poetry and catch up before the Bold Dipped tour crew heads out on the rest of their 2016 US tour
Featuring..
Tom Laveille
Cathy Petch
Larysa Musick
The P.O.E.
$10.00 (+ 1.50 service fee) - order them here
No one write to the colonal
460 College St., Toronto, Ontario M6G 1A1
8:00 doors - 8:30 show
Tuesday March 1st, Burdock, 1184 Bloor st W Toronto - 8pm PWYC
Our first show was so beautiful, the curator Dane Swan decided this should be a series of collaborations. Do come out, it's a happening.
An evening of poetry, music, and performance art featuring:
Liz Gallo
Sophia Alexandra
Soulfistikato
Erin Morgan
Dane Swan
Christina Kozak
Cathy Petch
&
Special Guests
Jennifer Hosein
Spencer Butt
and Host Patrick Connors
An evening of poetry, music, and performance art featuring:
Liz Gallo
Sophia Alexandra
Soulfistikato
Erin Morgan
Dane Swan
Christina Kozak
Cathy Petch
&
Special Guests
Jennifer Hosein
Spencer Butt
and Host Patrick Connors
Queer Coll(i/u)sions Conference, Peterborough On, March 5th,6th
I am so proud to be a part of this lineup. I will be doing a queer performance panel with Frankie McGee on the 5th at 11am and then I'll be the closing show that night.
I can't wait to attend these wonderful happenings and represent "Hot Damn It's A Queer Slam" as well as my own set. So many great queers I've had the pleasure to work with over the years with are in this conference. Big love.
Freaking lovely. Have a look at their lineup here http://fellows.sadleirhouse.ca/queercollisions/draft-schedule/
I can't wait to attend these wonderful happenings and represent "Hot Damn It's A Queer Slam" as well as my own set. So many great queers I've had the pleasure to work with over the years with are in this conference. Big love.
Freaking lovely. Have a look at their lineup here http://fellows.sadleirhouse.ca/queercollisions/draft-schedule/
Lupercalia! Owen Sounds fab 2 day festival - Feb 12th, but stay for more
I've been invited to join a line up of great artists for Lupercalia this year, a two day event with Mudtown Records. Do join me Friday Feb 12th for my show at 5:30 I will also be the MC for the infamous Sadies that night. In the meantime, look at this fantastic lineup!!!
To find out how awesome this fest is and get advance tickets click here
To find out how awesome this fest is and get advance tickets click here
Toronto Robobaby! Slam Semi Finals at The Drake Hotel Jan 17th
Wooot my home slam has booked us for a January 17th show! Let the tour continue and it's Zoe Dog's favourite show because it's in Toronto! It will be our semi finals so you know it's going to be kick ass. Doors 7:30, 7 bucks. Drake Hotel Downstairs! This is the second of two semi finals shows. These poets have been working so hard to get to the top. I just know it will be a spectacular night.
I will have oodles of fun merch including my new chapbook "Unhuman Poems" which is a true creation of love. When you grow up other, you listen and see things differently. These poems are for or in the voices of insects, animals, elements, imaginary friends, C3PO, Chewbacca and Pinnochio. I'm really proud of this tour and this new book. Come have a great evening with us all. Get there early, the semis are worth all the hype they get.
I will have oodles of fun merch including my new chapbook "Unhuman Poems" which is a true creation of love. When you grow up other, you listen and see things differently. These poems are for or in the voices of insects, animals, elements, imaginary friends, C3PO, Chewbacca and Pinnochio. I'm really proud of this tour and this new book. Come have a great evening with us all. Get there early, the semis are worth all the hype they get.
OMG THE ROBOBABY TEARS TOUR IS HERE
It's time for Fake Christmas! I am bringing the Robobaby I had on the back lawn with Papa RC Weslowski for fake christmas and doing some hella fun shows on the way Come West! I knows it's one of the best haha. So much fun, a blog, a new chapbook and new work. Howdy Pardners!!! Big Thanks to the League of Canadian Poets for their support of the tour! Calgary has now added a show in a secret location! Email me at [email protected] to find out where!
Dec 6th Vigil - Philosopher's Walk, Toronto
An outdoor vigil held on Sunday, December 6th at 6pm to remember the women murdered by men, and to work for the eradication of all violence against women. I am so proud to have been asked to be a part of this lineup of excellent speakers. I will add names and bios as the event develops. It is open to people of all genders. Violence affects us all. The memory of the Montreal Massacre is replicated in so many violent acts that happen all over the world. Come to show support and listen to our stories.
Toronto Poetry Slammaversary! Nov 29th - The Drake 8pm
10 years, baby! It's been a decade since TPS began in a lil College Street bar and wow how far we have come!
We want to celebrate our anniversary slam with our fans and friends, so come on out NOV 29 for a show that's going to celebrate our slam proper!
First, the hosts are kickass: Spencer Butt and Andrea Thompson two poets who have seen TPS evolve since its early days!
Second, your features for the evening are members of Toronto Poetry Project (who produce TPS). You'll hear poetry from:
Lara Bozabalian
Dave Silverberg
Rahul Gupta
Patrick de Belen
Cathy Petch
Tanya Neumeyer
Third, we have DJ Mark Andrada spinning tunes after each poem, with the music based on the poem's topic. He's done this before at TPS and our audience couldn't complement him enough!
Fourth, we gots prizes and balloons and special guests and an afterparty bash somewhere!
Doors 7pm signup 730 show 8
$7 cover
Open mic available for 5 poets (or comedians, musicians, whatever, anything goes on the open mic!)
See ya on the 29th!
We want to celebrate our anniversary slam with our fans and friends, so come on out NOV 29 for a show that's going to celebrate our slam proper!
First, the hosts are kickass: Spencer Butt and Andrea Thompson two poets who have seen TPS evolve since its early days!
Second, your features for the evening are members of Toronto Poetry Project (who produce TPS). You'll hear poetry from:
Lara Bozabalian
Dave Silverberg
Rahul Gupta
Patrick de Belen
Cathy Petch
Tanya Neumeyer
Third, we have DJ Mark Andrada spinning tunes after each poem, with the music based on the poem's topic. He's done this before at TPS and our audience couldn't complement him enough!
Fourth, we gots prizes and balloons and special guests and an afterparty bash somewhere!
Doors 7pm signup 730 show 8
$7 cover
Open mic available for 5 poets (or comedians, musicians, whatever, anything goes on the open mic!)
See ya on the 29th!
Naked Heart Festival - IN:Verse - October 17th - 330pm to 445 - 530 Church St.
Glad Day Bookshop is thrilled to present the first year of NAKED HEART – The LGBTQ Festival of Words. Our vision for NAKED HEART is to establish a yearly Canadian LGBTQ literary festival that amplifies love, language & freedom. This year, over 75 authors are presenting over 40 panels, workshops and readings during the weekend of October 16th, 17th and 18th. NAKED HEART takes place at four sites in the Church & Wellesley village of Toronto.Check out the NAKED HEART website: http://nakedheart.ca/
I will be a part of an excellent lineup of readers at David's Tea. And if there's no kids there, we'll have us a grand old time, and if there is.. less swearing. Or more. C'mon kids are on the internet all freaking DAY - 5 Bucks or a festival pass.
CATHY PETCH, DEBRA ANDERSON, ERIC WRIGHT, JACQUELINE VALENCIA, JORDAAN MASON, LUCAS CRAWFORD, ROBERT STECKLING, SUSANNAH BETTS
I will be a part of an excellent lineup of readers at David's Tea. And if there's no kids there, we'll have us a grand old time, and if there is.. less swearing. Or more. C'mon kids are on the internet all freaking DAY - 5 Bucks or a festival pass.
CATHY PETCH, DEBRA ANDERSON, ERIC WRIGHT, JACQUELINE VALENCIA, JORDAAN MASON, LUCAS CRAWFORD, ROBERT STECKLING, SUSANNAH BETTS
Oldschoolapalooza - Oct 7th - Supermarket - 10 bucks - Fundraiser
This is going to be so so much fun. A showcase of new and old poems by some of the oldies in the business. To understand the shelf life, I'm old school and I've been doing this for 4 years. Yah hahha. Check out this great lineup though! And it's to fundraise for my team to go to Saskatoon. So good vibes all around.
Imagine a spoken word show featuring such classic GTA poets as Mike Smith, Spencer Butt, Krystle Mullin, Yogi, and many more..
That fantasy is now a reality, poetry fans! Toronto Poetry Project is producing a fundraiser to help support the TPS Team two weeks before they head to Saskatoon to compete at the Canadian Festival of Spoken Word.
This Old Schoolapalooza show will feature poets who have been on the TPS Team, pre-2013:
Mike Smith (your host for the evening)
Dave Silverberg
Krystle Mullin
Spencer Butt
Yogi Siewrattan
Dane Swan
Hamza Fouad aka Relevant
Cathy Petch
Britta Badour
Dahveed ODelly Delisca
Hot lineup!
Doors 730pm show 8pm
$10 at the door
All ages
No open mic
We can't wait to hear from these team alumnus talents, so be sure to mark this show on your calendar!
Imagine a spoken word show featuring such classic GTA poets as Mike Smith, Spencer Butt, Krystle Mullin, Yogi, and many more..
That fantasy is now a reality, poetry fans! Toronto Poetry Project is producing a fundraiser to help support the TPS Team two weeks before they head to Saskatoon to compete at the Canadian Festival of Spoken Word.
This Old Schoolapalooza show will feature poets who have been on the TPS Team, pre-2013:
Mike Smith (your host for the evening)
Dave Silverberg
Krystle Mullin
Spencer Butt
Yogi Siewrattan
Dane Swan
Hamza Fouad aka Relevant
Cathy Petch
Britta Badour
Dahveed ODelly Delisca
Hot lineup!
Doors 730pm show 8pm
$10 at the door
All ages
No open mic
We can't wait to hear from these team alumnus talents, so be sure to mark this show on your calendar!
POSTPONED! Nov 15th - Cabaret Noir - Hirut 2050 Danforth Ave - 8pm
Loves I'm sorry this has been postponed until the new year. i wanted to leave this up here since I'd already announced it.
Stay tuned!
Stay tuned!
Peterborough Pride! Saturday Sept 19th at the Garnet! 7pm 10 Bucks
This is going to be so much fun. The best man from my wedding - Em Glasspool, my dear Dildette David Bateman and I will be the opening act for David's wild and amazing show "Hamlet In A Hot Tub" which has gotten much aghast acclaim from it's run in Toronto Pride and the Rhubarb Festival. It stars David Bateman, Amy J Lester, Brock Hessel and Paul "fukken" Bellini. Do not miss this gaystravaganza.
East End Poetry Festival - Sunday Sept 20th - 12 to 4pm
Lovelies!
I'm to feature with these astoundingly amazing poets in our east end. It's my neighbourhood so I'm extra happy about finding a home in my home.
I am so honoured to be sharing the stage with John Oughton, Jill Jorgenson, Patrick Walters and the poet laureate of Toronto George Elliot Clarke!
I know each of us brings a very unique voice and style and I could not be happier to b sharing this stage.
The theme is peace and I'm writing some new stuff for this. I can't wait to share it with you all. Come and join us, it will be a grand old time.
And it's FREE!!!
Ontario College of Art and Design - September 26th - tentative time 3pm-5
Title: Womyn Speak Out! Spoken Word & the Art of Empowerment
Panelists:
Mahlikah Awe:ri
Barbara Erochina
Vanessa McGowan
Cathy Petch
Moderator: Andrea Thompson
More info to come but this is a free event and I'm very excited for the topic and the people speaking on it
Panelists:
Mahlikah Awe:ri
Barbara Erochina
Vanessa McGowan
Cathy Petch
Moderator: Andrea Thompson
More info to come but this is a free event and I'm very excited for the topic and the people speaking on it
Poe!ry Reading - Diane Frankling Co-Op - Aug 5th - 7pm-9pm
Come to the Diane Frankling Co-Op on Aug. 5th and listen to poetry from Bill Bissett, Cathy Petch, Elizabeth Burns, and Adam Abbas! Don't delay! Act now!
Diane Frankling Co-operative Homes85 Bleecker Street, Toronto, Ontario
No cover (but maybe a hat will be passed)
Bill Bissett:
bill bissett originalee from lunaria enjoying erth sew much n still baffuld by a lot uv erthling wayze love sound poetree n vizual poetree nu book out in spring 16 latest books both novels from talonbooks novel n hungree throat latest cd nothing will hurt with pete dako recent art show th treez uv lunaria wintr 14-15 at glad day books
Cathy Petch:
Cathy Petch is a playwright, spoken word artist, haiku deathmaster and musical saw player for The Silverhearts. She has several handsome chapbooks and most recently published her poetry book "Late Night Knife Fights” with LyricalMyrical Press. She has been published by Descant, The Toronto Quarterly and Joypuke journals. She is a member of The League of Canadian Poets and "The Dildettes" a queer spoken word/comedy troupe along with Regie Cabico and David Bateman. Petch was a member of both the 2011 and 2012 Toronto Poetry Slam Teams and is the creative director of "Hot Damn It's A Queer Slam". She is currently the coach of the Toronto Poetry Slam Team. She is happiest onstage. Find her at www.cathypetch.com
Elizabeth Burns:
http://pushandshove.org/
Once told she "has too many ideas" and "is a bad writer," she shut up and never wanted to do anything. Now, she is the creator/host of the infamous "outrageous" poetry & performance art series. In her spare time she's busy having too many ideas & being a bad writer. She will never shut up.
Adam Abbas:
Adam Abbas is more interested in what’s muttered after the phone call than the phone call itself. His first poetry book A State A Statue A Statute was published by the Steel Bananas Art Collective in August 2014. His fiction has been published in Static and he self-published a novel of literary fiction entitled Disassociation or You Know You’re Right in November 2006. His play Instead of Meals was a finalist for the 2013 Panfish Productions’ New Play Contest. He lives in Toronto. Twitter: https://twitter.com/Adam_M_Abbas
Event photo credit: Martin Parr
Diane Frankling Co-operative Homes85 Bleecker Street, Toronto, Ontario
No cover (but maybe a hat will be passed)
Bill Bissett:
bill bissett originalee from lunaria enjoying erth sew much n still baffuld by a lot uv erthling wayze love sound poetree n vizual poetree nu book out in spring 16 latest books both novels from talonbooks novel n hungree throat latest cd nothing will hurt with pete dako recent art show th treez uv lunaria wintr 14-15 at glad day books
Cathy Petch:
Cathy Petch is a playwright, spoken word artist, haiku deathmaster and musical saw player for The Silverhearts. She has several handsome chapbooks and most recently published her poetry book "Late Night Knife Fights” with LyricalMyrical Press. She has been published by Descant, The Toronto Quarterly and Joypuke journals. She is a member of The League of Canadian Poets and "The Dildettes" a queer spoken word/comedy troupe along with Regie Cabico and David Bateman. Petch was a member of both the 2011 and 2012 Toronto Poetry Slam Teams and is the creative director of "Hot Damn It's A Queer Slam". She is currently the coach of the Toronto Poetry Slam Team. She is happiest onstage. Find her at www.cathypetch.com
Elizabeth Burns:
http://pushandshove.org/
Once told she "has too many ideas" and "is a bad writer," she shut up and never wanted to do anything. Now, she is the creator/host of the infamous "outrageous" poetry & performance art series. In her spare time she's busy having too many ideas & being a bad writer. She will never shut up.
Adam Abbas:
Adam Abbas is more interested in what’s muttered after the phone call than the phone call itself. His first poetry book A State A Statue A Statute was published by the Steel Bananas Art Collective in August 2014. His fiction has been published in Static and he self-published a novel of literary fiction entitled Disassociation or You Know You’re Right in November 2006. His play Instead of Meals was a finalist for the 2013 Panfish Productions’ New Play Contest. He lives in Toronto. Twitter: https://twitter.com/Adam_M_Abbas
Event photo credit: Martin Parr
York Slam! Wednesday June 17th, lookit the fancy poster!
Doors 6:30pm - Show 7pm
All Ages and skill levels welcome
$5 at the door
YORKSLAM POETRY SERIES & OPEN MIC
Each month on the 3rd Wednesday we throw down with an open mic, follow it up with 2 rounds of a poetry slam and a feature set by a touring artist in-between. Come out and flex your skills in the slam or find your voice in a safe place with the open mic.
All proceeds from the evening go towards the 2015 YorkSLAM Team's fundraising efforts for CFSW 2015 in Saskatoon,
All Ages and skill levels welcome
$5 at the door
YORKSLAM POETRY SERIES & OPEN MIC
Each month on the 3rd Wednesday we throw down with an open mic, follow it up with 2 rounds of a poetry slam and a feature set by a touring artist in-between. Come out and flex your skills in the slam or find your voice in a safe place with the open mic.
All proceeds from the evening go towards the 2015 YorkSLAM Team's fundraising efforts for CFSW 2015 in Saskatoon,
June 20th, 2015 - 1-5pm Riverdale Library, Toronto
PRIDE EVENT! Urban Gallery - Saturday June 27th - 3pm
A Divine Afternoon
Starring
David Bateman
Vanessa McGowan
Cathy Petch
And Trasharella
This is an official Toronto pride event featuring myself and some of my very favourite queers. Join us! It's my damn birthday and it's the party of the year! This is a lovely queer run space and we're going to have us a gay old time. xoxo
Starring
David Bateman
Vanessa McGowan
Cathy Petch
And Trasharella
This is an official Toronto pride event featuring myself and some of my very favourite queers. Join us! It's my damn birthday and it's the party of the year! This is a lovely queer run space and we're going to have us a gay old time. xoxo
Hot Damn Hits Pride! Sun Jun 28th, North Stage, 230-4pm
I am so proud to let everyone know that my series Hot Damn It's A Queer Slam, has been given a show on the Trans and Gender Non Binary Stage at this year's Pride Parade! We will likely have a head to head and a showcase and an open mic. Come sign up, or cheer the winner, all the winners who get to share their amazing work.
Peterborough Poetry Slam Finals - May 27th, 8pm The Spill
Cabaret Of Wild Culture - Pages Unbound Festival, Randolph Theatre, Toronto, Thurs May 7th, 9pm
This is a late night event during a larger festival, find tickets and info here, but this night, well, you have to love it when someone says, "no, do something way wilder"... yum.
Hosted by Marc Glassman and Whitney Smith, Randolph Theatre, 736 Bathurst St. Doors 8 Show at 9pm
An exploration of the connections between and within the "wild," and the cultured. Produced in collaboration with the Society for the Preservation of Wild Culture (SPWC - publisher of The Journal of Wild Culture).This late-night, vaudeville-esque session will explore a wide swath of art forms that are both wild and cultural, playful and serious. From performing, culinary and musical arts to dance, improvisation and the science of ecology, this event finds its roots in the SPWC's mandate: which is, briefly, to find connections between and within the "wild," and the cultured.
This event is destined to be an exciting, unique romp, but is sure to lead audiences into thought-provoking discussions that will continue long after the curtain has closed. Participating artists will include Elizabeth Bettencourt, Tony Calzetta, Zoe Cormier, Alec Dempster, David Ferry, Gemma Files, Bob Nasmith, Cathy Petch, Leon Rooke and many more!
416 Dating Stories - Earth Day Fundraiser, April 22nd 7:00 - The Garrison
Event Description: 416 DATING STORIES presents Romancing the Planet – An evening of Dating Stories storytelling*" -- An Earth Day fundraiser** for Citizens' Climate Lobby (CCL) Toronto Chapter. Hear Torontonians like yourself telling their stories of dating joys, surprises and disasters! Real-life dating might make you cry, but on Earth Day it'll make you laugh (hard).This event is for everyone 19+ partnered or single.
Comedian MARTHA CHAVES (veteran of Montreal’s Just For Laughs Comedy Festival) will be headling the event telling the story of how she met her partner! Cathy Petch will be talking about her dream partner, hair ball and all.
Tickets: $10 in advance and $15 at the door. The venue is a bar, so you'll need to be 19+ (come with ID). You can also make cash donations at the venue (CCL is a non-profit but not a charity, therefore tax receipts can't be issued). Get your tickets here
Time: Wed., Apr 22 at 7:30-9:30, with at least a 10 minute intermission. DOORS OPEN at 6:30pm. Expecting to reach the maximum occupancy of 150 pp, so come by 7:00 get a good spot, food & drink.
Location: The Garrison - 1197 Dundas Street W (at Ossington). Only street parking. TTC via 505-Dundas streetcar or 63-Ossington bus. Wheelchair accessible. LEAVE EXTRA TIME BECAUSE Spadina/College INTERSECTION IS CLOSED CAUSING A LOT OF RE-ROUTING.
Menu: http://www.garrisontoronto.com/menu.html
Need more Info about Event? email [email protected] or follow @416dating
**In Canada, CCL has no paid staff, only volunteers. All of the proceeds from this fundraiser will go to CCL's Toronto chapter to further CCL's mission.
#### In consideration of scentsitive performers and audience members, please do not wear scented products ####
Comedian MARTHA CHAVES (veteran of Montreal’s Just For Laughs Comedy Festival) will be headling the event telling the story of how she met her partner! Cathy Petch will be talking about her dream partner, hair ball and all.
Tickets: $10 in advance and $15 at the door. The venue is a bar, so you'll need to be 19+ (come with ID). You can also make cash donations at the venue (CCL is a non-profit but not a charity, therefore tax receipts can't be issued). Get your tickets here
Time: Wed., Apr 22 at 7:30-9:30, with at least a 10 minute intermission. DOORS OPEN at 6:30pm. Expecting to reach the maximum occupancy of 150 pp, so come by 7:00 get a good spot, food & drink.
Location: The Garrison - 1197 Dundas Street W (at Ossington). Only street parking. TTC via 505-Dundas streetcar or 63-Ossington bus. Wheelchair accessible. LEAVE EXTRA TIME BECAUSE Spadina/College INTERSECTION IS CLOSED CAUSING A LOT OF RE-ROUTING.
Menu: http://www.garrisontoronto.com/menu.html
Need more Info about Event? email [email protected] or follow @416dating
**In Canada, CCL has no paid staff, only volunteers. All of the proceeds from this fundraiser will go to CCL's Toronto chapter to further CCL's mission.
#### In consideration of scentsitive performers and audience members, please do not wear scented products ####
G Day Is For Girls - Sunday April 26th Daniel's Spectrum - All Day Event
I will be doing a short piece on bullying here. It is a real honour to be a part of this fantastic day!
“It takes a Village to raise a child” ~ African proverb
At G Day, we believe that once upon a time, communities around the world and throughout history gathered to honour the transition from childhood into adolescence in a ritualized celebration. While vestiges of this tradition can still be seen in some cultural and faith traditions, for the most part in urban, secular life, it has sadly been lost.
G Day is re-imagining this lost tradition and employing it as an antidote to the culture of social comparison and competition by exploring girls’ shared experience in a safe, supportive and inspiring environment.
We are creating a global social movement, starting with having events in multiple communities across Canada where Girls and their Champions (parents/guardians and others playing a meaningful role in supporting Girls futures) can come together to welcome, witness and receive Girls as they enter the next phase of their life journey.
At G Day, we become the “Village”, if only for a day. Find Tickets and the website here
“It takes a Village to raise a child” ~ African proverb
At G Day, we believe that once upon a time, communities around the world and throughout history gathered to honour the transition from childhood into adolescence in a ritualized celebration. While vestiges of this tradition can still be seen in some cultural and faith traditions, for the most part in urban, secular life, it has sadly been lost.
G Day is re-imagining this lost tradition and employing it as an antidote to the culture of social comparison and competition by exploring girls’ shared experience in a safe, supportive and inspiring environment.
We are creating a global social movement, starting with having events in multiple communities across Canada where Girls and their Champions (parents/guardians and others playing a meaningful role in supporting Girls futures) can come together to welcome, witness and receive Girls as they enter the next phase of their life journey.
At G Day, we become the “Village”, if only for a day. Find Tickets and the website here
Eating Poetry - Windup Cafe - Sunday April 26th 3pm - 382 College St W
This Sunday join us for Eating Poetry, a National Poetry Month show featuring Patrick de Belen, Cathy Petch, Barbara Erochina and Tanya Neumeyer.
The show kicks off with an open mic at 3pm and the delicious features sets will follow from each of our headline artists. Enjoy a waffle sandwich during the show or stay for a roast dinner at the Wind Up Bird Cafe - there's no way this event will leave you hungry!
Muse Cabaret - Rainbow Reels Queer & Trans Film fest - Kitchener March 14th 8pm
There is nothing as lurid as a Cabaret in a Legion Hall. Yumsey!
Rainbow Reels Queer and Trans Film Festival presents:
MUSE CABARET
8PM-1AM, 2nd Floor, The Legion 19 Regina St N Waterloo
$5 or Pay What You Can
Join Muse Cabaret for a night showcasing local queer/trans musicians, poets, theatre artists and drag performers!
A great place to spend time with friends and meet new people! Free refreshments will be provided. We encourage folks to dress up however they like! And the bar will be open.
Performances by:
Albert Bishop, Charlena Russell, Danielle Fradley-Davis, Alison Dale, D Morton, Beth Murch, Cathy Petch, David Bateman, Brock Hessel, Miss Sixty Lashes, Mils Arden
Descant - The Grand Finale - March 25th, Revival Bar - 7pm
I am so honoured to be a part of this very special night of multidisicplined arts for this incredible literary and visual art journal that's been a part of Canadian Arts for the past 45 years.
Food! Literati! Schenanigans and maybe dancing. I will be doing an all saw poem set so don't miss it! The whole night is going to be epic.
Food! Literati! Schenanigans and maybe dancing. I will be doing an all saw poem set so don't miss it! The whole night is going to be epic.
Poetry Train Fundraiser! - Hot House, 35 Church St - Thurs Feb 12th 8pm
I have been asked to be a part of this great lineup for the Poetry Train Fundraiser!
Check out the excellent other features!
Hellooooo Max Layton, you fantastic poet!
And Robert Priest? It's like a freaking locomotive of steamy poetry is going off the rails!
What is the Poetry train?
"We are a small collective of passionate poets organizing this cross Canada train trip on a very shoestring budget with no major grant support for the love of poetryand bringing the poetic community together."
All aboard!
This will be a great deal of fun so I hope you can join us and support this noble fundraiser, I mean that internet guy really does "need" money to take "ladies" out but I think maybe you, you might want to have some fun instead. Invest in this!
Check out the excellent other features!
Hellooooo Max Layton, you fantastic poet!
And Robert Priest? It's like a freaking locomotive of steamy poetry is going off the rails!
What is the Poetry train?
"We are a small collective of passionate poets organizing this cross Canada train trip on a very shoestring budget with no major grant support for the love of poetryand bringing the poetic community together."
All aboard!
This will be a great deal of fun so I hope you can join us and support this noble fundraiser, I mean that internet guy really does "need" money to take "ladies" out but I think maybe you, you might want to have some fun instead. Invest in this!
Plasticine Poetry - Sun Feb 15th - 630 - Pauper's Pub 2nd floor
This is the fantastic series where I really grew as a host. For 7 years I got to introduce some of the best poets from all over Canada. What a great job to have! Plasticine books amazing nights of poetry and I'm very happy to be a part of this post Valentine's day lineup. If you come before 6 there's half price appetizers, something to get you ready for the huge effin entree feast that will be going on that night! Hosted by the fabtastic Nikki Ward! Also there's an open mic!
Featuring
Olive Senior
Cathy Petch
Marcia Johnson
Rudy Fearon.
Featuring
Olive Senior
Cathy Petch
Marcia Johnson
Rudy Fearon.
Descant Literary Journal - The Final Show - Revival March 25th
I was totally honoured to be asked by Descant to be a part of their final party. This incredible staple of Can Lit is sadly ending it's mighty rein of 45 years (that's right) of publishing contemporary essays, stories, poetry and visual art. Part of the terrifying death of print which is a lot like the war on hair... and not at all like the war on hair. The evening calls for almost everything other than poetry, though I suspect it will rear its beautiful face... Come celebrate all that Descant has done for artists, say goodbye with us and enjoy a night of performance, dance and music. More details to come but for now, mark those calendars my pretties.
Wednesday March 25th
Revival - 783 College St Toronto
Time - TBA
Price - TBA
Wednesday March 25th
Revival - 783 College St Toronto
Time - TBA
Price - TBA
Poet or Get Off the Pot - Pussy Basket - Videofag Dec 6th 6pm
This is a wonderful series curated by my "Hot Damn It's A Queer Slam" pardner Brock Hessel. His past Pussy Baskets have been totally unique nights, this one is no different. A potluck! What can be said of food, oh honey, so so much. I'll have to do something freshly baked.
Join Jess Dobkin, Maruysya Bociurkiw, Debra Anderson, David Bateman, Cathy Petch, Healther Loretta Curley, Camilla Grudova, Queer Writes and Knaves Kitchen, and others for an evening of potluck, poetry, and performance.
$7 admission or free with a piece of writing and food item or dish or dessert to share (RVSP needed).
This is event is brought to you in part by the Sexual Diversity Studies Student Union.
Videofag 187 Augusta Ave
Join Jess Dobkin, Maruysya Bociurkiw, Debra Anderson, David Bateman, Cathy Petch, Healther Loretta Curley, Camilla Grudova, Queer Writes and Knaves Kitchen, and others for an evening of potluck, poetry, and performance.
$7 admission or free with a piece of writing and food item or dish or dessert to share (RVSP needed).
This is event is brought to you in part by the Sexual Diversity Studies Student Union.
Videofag 187 Augusta Ave
The SH Poetry Readings - Sunday Oct 5th Paddy's Playhouse 730pm
Holy crap! Look at this lineup.. is that Robert "FREAKING"Priest's name there? Brock (OMGOMG) Hessel? Join us for this fantastic series.
I'm so happy they have found a new home at Paddy's Playhouse, where everything fits me. THE SHOES FIT ME!!
Ok.. I'm over excited here. This is a wonderful series run by the sweetest poet in the land bill bissett and I'm so honoured to be asked to join. Join us. We'll transform this town.
I'm so happy they have found a new home at Paddy's Playhouse, where everything fits me. THE SHOES FIT ME!!
Ok.. I'm over excited here. This is a wonderful series run by the sweetest poet in the land bill bissett and I'm so honoured to be asked to join. Join us. We'll transform this town.
The Dildettes at CFSW - Victoria - October 14th to 18th
How freaking wonderful! We cannot wait for our late night show happening on Thursday October 16th! All week you will see us at various things like panels about how not to be a total jerk and Regie has a Master Class... no.. not a masterbation class, though I was hoping.
We have some new fab acts we are excited about. Never mind that we get to be a part of this incredible line up of artists and our National Slam Festival - the Canadian Festival of Spoken Word. What a total honour. Find out more at http://cfsw.ca/
We have some new fab acts we are excited about. Never mind that we get to be a part of this incredible line up of artists and our National Slam Festival - the Canadian Festival of Spoken Word. What a total honour. Find out more at http://cfsw.ca/
Livewords - Thursday September 4th, The Black Swan Tavern - 8pm
Do you like things that are Live? Do you enjoy Words?
Do I have a show for you.
I will be featuring at the beautiful and diabolical Edward Nixon's renowned series Live Words
Livewords returns and we are very serious. It's the most wonderful time of the year: kids are (mostly) off the streets, out of the patios and back in school. We welcome these precious few September days with: Shawna Dimitry, Cathy Petch, Jacob Scheier and Jim Bella Smith.
Plus our Back-to-Business Open Mic
Event hosted by Pelayo Matute.
Free snacks. Good, well-priced beer, wine and liquors PWYC Donation Requested.
We'll be shortly be posting long and likely apocryphal bios at :http://livewords.ca
Also - Open Mic!!! Livewords- at The Black Swan, 154 Danforth – 2nd floor – [map]
Do I have a show for you.
I will be featuring at the beautiful and diabolical Edward Nixon's renowned series Live Words
Livewords returns and we are very serious. It's the most wonderful time of the year: kids are (mostly) off the streets, out of the patios and back in school. We welcome these precious few September days with: Shawna Dimitry, Cathy Petch, Jacob Scheier and Jim Bella Smith.
Plus our Back-to-Business Open Mic
Event hosted by Pelayo Matute.
Free snacks. Good, well-priced beer, wine and liquors PWYC Donation Requested.
We'll be shortly be posting long and likely apocryphal bios at :http://livewords.ca
Also - Open Mic!!! Livewords- at The Black Swan, 154 Danforth – 2nd floor – [map]
Wine With Everything - Shuthefuckupfuckwad tour 2014 - Red Garnet Sep 5
Heads up people...Peterborough's sorrow WINE WITH EVERYTHING will be playing at THE RED GARNET on September 5. This will be our 22nd year of destroying the good reputation of the downtown Peterborough music scene...also our illustrious drummer Chris "downtown" Brown's 44th birthday...we only play once every few years but when we do, people cry and feel awkward for months. "Dirty" Patrick Walsh, Cathy "Dusty" Petch and Chris "Downtown" Brown are WINE WITH EVERYTHING...come and see music die.
9pm Red Garnet, Peterborough On
123 Hunter St, find the FB link here
9pm Red Garnet, Peterborough On
123 Hunter St, find the FB link here
Brockton Writers Series September 10th - 630pm - Full of Beans Cafe
Ok I am so excited for this lineup. The always witty and wonderful Farzana Doctor curates this wonderful series
Full of beans Café, 1348 Dundas Street West (east of Gladstone)
Hoa Nguyen
Nora Gold
Ray Robertson
I'm looking forward to this room. Hope to see you there.
Have a look at their website, they always get a fab lineup
Full of beans Café, 1348 Dundas Street West (east of Gladstone)
Hoa Nguyen
Nora Gold
Ray Robertson
I'm looking forward to this room. Hope to see you there.
Have a look at their website, they always get a fab lineup
Videofag June 20th - 187 Augusta Ave 7pm
An official World Pride 2014 event.
Genre Frock is the third instalment of the Pussy Basket Poetry Cabaret series…
How do you wear your gender? How do you wear your genre? Can either be fully defrocked and f**ked with? Using the idea of gender and genre f**k as a prompt, we have asked a line-up of seasoned spoken word artists, performance artists, and drag performers to play with genres and genders they haven’t played with before.
This evening brings you Donnarama Versace, Tom Cho, David Bateman, Nicki Ward, Cathy Petch, Bill Bissett, and more. Open mic slots available throughout the night. PWYC ($5 suggested) find the Facebook event here
We gratefully acknowledge the support of the Mark S. Bonham Centre for Sexual Diversity Studies, the Sexual Diversity Studies Student Union, the League of Canadian Poets, the Ontario Arts Council, and the Reading Salon.
Genre Frock is the third instalment of the Pussy Basket Poetry Cabaret series…
How do you wear your gender? How do you wear your genre? Can either be fully defrocked and f**ked with? Using the idea of gender and genre f**k as a prompt, we have asked a line-up of seasoned spoken word artists, performance artists, and drag performers to play with genres and genders they haven’t played with before.
This evening brings you Donnarama Versace, Tom Cho, David Bateman, Nicki Ward, Cathy Petch, Bill Bissett, and more. Open mic slots available throughout the night. PWYC ($5 suggested) find the Facebook event here
We gratefully acknowledge the support of the Mark S. Bonham Centre for Sexual Diversity Studies, the Sexual Diversity Studies Student Union, the League of Canadian Poets, the Ontario Arts Council, and the Reading Salon.
CAPTURING FIRE IN WASHINGTON DC! May 30th to June 1st
Holy Free Holies
I am so honoured to be one of the featured performers at this incredible queer summit! WORD I AM HOSTING THE EROTICA NIGHT!
Did you see the fab line up? There will be workshops and shows all weekend. Gabe Moses is returning to defend the title of Capturing Fire Champion.
I feel truly blessed to be a part of this incredible yearly event created by the beautiful and illustrious Regie Cabico!
If you're in the capitale... come out an play with us, we won't bite, unless you want us to. Find deets here
I am so honoured to be one of the featured performers at this incredible queer summit! WORD I AM HOSTING THE EROTICA NIGHT!
Did you see the fab line up? There will be workshops and shows all weekend. Gabe Moses is returning to defend the title of Capturing Fire Champion.
I feel truly blessed to be a part of this incredible yearly event created by the beautiful and illustrious Regie Cabico!
If you're in the capitale... come out an play with us, we won't bite, unless you want us to. Find deets here
Pedestrian Sundays in Kensington Market - May 25th 1pm ish
This weekend is the official launch of Pedestrian Sundays in Kensington Market! Finally someone might think I'm normal for yelling on a street corner. Myself and my sublime teammate Tanya Neumeyer will be repping Toronto Poetry Project. Come on dowwwn share a poem mebbie. There will be fab acts all day, we'll start just after 1pm in front of Graffiti's 170 Baldwin, or somewheres near there. Hoooray! A show I can bring my dog to!
Art Bar! Tuesday May 27 - 8pm The Black Swan
Cathy Petch, Aaron Giovannone, Mary Pinkoski at The Art Bar
Canada's longest running poetry series! Hoorah!
Art Bar is where I started my poetic love affair with Toronto. One of the best open mics in town and a helluva series. I mean look at the people I'm reading with. MARY FREAKING PINKOWSKI? She's like the poet freaking laureate of Edmonton for f's sakes
I'm proud to announce I will be back on the Art Bar stage. I cannot wait. Plus, it's even a closer stumble from my door, The Black Swan ripped up their (IknowitcausedSARS IknowitcausedSARS) carpet and have transformed their upstairs to a beautiful stage and lounge. Come have a listen!
Cat Sass, Norwood Ontario - April 26th 4 - 6pm
A wonderful series run by the incredibly talented Ursula Pflug.
I'm joined by some of my favourite writers. Famed Chizine editor/director Sandra Katsuri and the smart and sublime editor from Tightrope Books Halli Villegas.
This is going to be an incredible show. Deets here
POETRY, FICTION AND SPOKEN WORD!
Cat Sass Coffeehouse
4255 Hwy 7, Norwood (705) 639-5494
I'm joined by some of my favourite writers. Famed Chizine editor/director Sandra Katsuri and the smart and sublime editor from Tightrope Books Halli Villegas.
This is going to be an incredible show. Deets here
POETRY, FICTION AND SPOKEN WORD!
Cat Sass Coffeehouse
4255 Hwy 7, Norwood (705) 639-5494
KW Slam Finals! Rumble in the Rotunda - Saturday May 3rd, Kitchener
KW Poetry Slam FINALS
Saturday May 3, 2014
Kitchener City Hall Rotunda, 200 King St W, Kitchener
$10-20 or Pay What You Can
Feature poet: Cathy Petch
7PM Open Mic Sign Up 7:30PM Open Mic 8PM SLAM
Hosted by Janice Lee
Come out to support our poets as they compete to be KW's Slam Champion 2014! This slam will be scored with numbers, by 5 judges from the audience. There will be two rounds with a feature performance in between. And don't forget that anyone can sign up to perform on the Open Mic!
Finalists: Beth Murch, Juliana Gomez,KTuck, Roland Fleming, Ben Malleck,Henry C.
Saturday May 3, 2014
Kitchener City Hall Rotunda, 200 King St W, Kitchener
$10-20 or Pay What You Can
Feature poet: Cathy Petch
7PM Open Mic Sign Up 7:30PM Open Mic 8PM SLAM
Hosted by Janice Lee
Come out to support our poets as they compete to be KW's Slam Champion 2014! This slam will be scored with numbers, by 5 judges from the audience. There will be two rounds with a feature performance in between. And don't forget that anyone can sign up to perform on the Open Mic!
Finalists: Beth Murch, Juliana Gomez,KTuck, Roland Fleming, Ben Malleck,Henry C.
Victoria Spoken Word Festival 2014! March 4th to 9th
This festival reads like a wish list for this performer. Myself and 12 other spoken word artists were accepted to be a part of this very well respected festival in Victoria B.C. The lineup of poets of honour along is like a dream. Have a look and join me! SALT I SMELL SALT! Every night is a new and different. Puppets, Theatre, Music, Collaboration. Growth and love! http://victoriaspokenwordfestival.com/
Smashmouth at Lazy Daisy Cafe, 1515 Gerrard St E 6pm
This fab new series combines music and spoken word. My two favourite things!
It's a beautiful locally owned coffee shop in my neighbourhood that loves to hand over the mic and make great tasty treats. Open mic sign up. Here's the deets for the facebook invite
Featuring slam poet Cathy Petch and the harmonious, metamorphising harmonies of The Bam Bams. Sign up from 7:30 pm and share your wonderful words to a tuned in, fantastic audience! Show starts at 8.
It's a beautiful locally owned coffee shop in my neighbourhood that loves to hand over the mic and make great tasty treats. Open mic sign up. Here's the deets for the facebook invite
Featuring slam poet Cathy Petch and the harmonious, metamorphising harmonies of The Bam Bams. Sign up from 7:30 pm and share your wonderful words to a tuned in, fantastic audience! Show starts at 8.
Bedslam! Hart House U of T, 730 pm
Bedslam is a night of sharing sexual stories. Relationship stories, coming out stories, bad dates, lost love, realizations, asexual angst, bad hook ups and anything you can think of, slam poetry, songs, music and comedy galore!
I will be featuring as well as Kate Sloan and more to be announced. Open mic too! Find deets here
I will be featuring as well as Kate Sloan and more to be announced. Open mic too! Find deets here
Descant Launch - January 23rd - Charlie's Gallery - 112 Harbord St 7pm
Come celebrate the launch of Descant’s 163rd issue, The Brink and the Break!
Parents, siblings, friends, lovers and places are thrown apart, and sometimes back together again, as the characters in this issue explore breaks and new beginnings in all of their forms.
Join us for food, prizes, readings and discounted issues and subscriptions, and have a listen to some of the best of today’s up and coming writers. Mingle with writers, artists, editors and friends, and don't forget to drink up at the lovely Charlie’s Gallery.
Featured readers: Cathy Petch, Lori Vos, Rocco de Giacomo, John Ryan Scrivener, Sharon Overend, George Elliott Clarke
Thank you to our generous donors! Look out for awesome raffle prizes at the launch from North American lit mags as well as Toronto theatres and publishing houses
Parents, siblings, friends, lovers and places are thrown apart, and sometimes back together again, as the characters in this issue explore breaks and new beginnings in all of their forms.
Join us for food, prizes, readings and discounted issues and subscriptions, and have a listen to some of the best of today’s up and coming writers. Mingle with writers, artists, editors and friends, and don't forget to drink up at the lovely Charlie’s Gallery.
Featured readers: Cathy Petch, Lori Vos, Rocco de Giacomo, John Ryan Scrivener, Sharon Overend, George Elliott Clarke
Thank you to our generous donors! Look out for awesome raffle prizes at the launch from North American lit mags as well as Toronto theatres and publishing houses
The Dildettes at Buddies In Bad Times Theatre Jan 30th!
AFTER LAST SUMMER’S WHIRLWIND TOUR OF SPORTS BARS FAR AND WIDE, DON’T MISS THIS ONE NIGHT CHANCE TO SEE THE DILDETTES IN ACTION!!!
REGIE CABICO! CATHY PETCH! DAVID BATEMAN
JANUARY 30TH, 2014 - 8PM - BUDDIES IN BAD TIMES
THEATRE, 12 ALEXANDER STREET (2 blocks north of
Carlton and Yonge)
THE FABULOUS DILDETTES THREE TIERED COMEDY TROUPE
Comedy sketches, potty mouthed slam poems, It's a poetry orgams!!!
$10 advance, $15 at the door,
Or if you are financially distraught then bring us a dildo love poem and PWYC.
OPEN MIC FOR DILDO INSPIRED POETRY LOVERS!!! SIGN UP AT
[email protected] (buy advance tickets here too!)
REGIE CABICO! CATHY PETCH! DAVID BATEMAN
JANUARY 30TH, 2014 - 8PM - BUDDIES IN BAD TIMES
THEATRE, 12 ALEXANDER STREET (2 blocks north of
Carlton and Yonge)
THE FABULOUS DILDETTES THREE TIERED COMEDY TROUPE
Comedy sketches, potty mouthed slam poems, It's a poetry orgams!!!
$10 advance, $15 at the door,
Or if you are financially distraught then bring us a dildo love poem and PWYC.
OPEN MIC FOR DILDO INSPIRED POETRY LOVERS!!! SIGN UP AT
[email protected] (buy advance tickets here too!)
The Dildettes at The Barbeside! Peterborough On 8pm
MAMA'S COMING HOME!!!
The Dildettes fell in love here, in my and David Bateman's beautiful (when it's not sopping wet) hometown of Peterborough.
Barberside, we are coming back into your magical realm as a true queer threesome. New poems! Comedy sketches! Haiku contemporary dance and so much hot dildo action you may not have sex with us.
xoxo
http://barbeside.ca/
10 bucks or PWYC
131 Hunter St. W
8pm
The Dildettes fell in love here, in my and David Bateman's beautiful (when it's not sopping wet) hometown of Peterborough.
Barberside, we are coming back into your magical realm as a true queer threesome. New poems! Comedy sketches! Haiku contemporary dance and so much hot dildo action you may not have sex with us.
xoxo
http://barbeside.ca/
10 bucks or PWYC
131 Hunter St. W
8pm
Wednesday January 8th - Free Times Cafe 320 College St
The WordSpell Collective proudly presents the New Year's edition of the WordSpell showcase and open mic!
The series brings together talented established and emerging female spoken word artists. We select our features from within Toronto because this city has deep pockets of talent! This month we feature the wonderfully talented voices of Cathy Petch and Sabrina. Hosted by Andrea Thompson!
Doors open at 7pm | Open Mic sign up at 7:30| Show at 8
Tickets at door: $6 and up
ALL ages & genders welcome in the audience!
Open mic is open to those who identify as women, is held after the feature performances and is limited to 4 minutes per poet. Find the facebook invite here
Find out more about the series at:
Group page: www.facebook.com/groups/WordSpellTO
Website: http://cytopoeticsevents.com/wordspell
Follow on Twitter: WordSpellTO
Email: [email protected]
Circle of Jerks - and the women who put up with them - Free times Cafe - 320 College St - Thursday November 14th 830 pm
I love marrying my two passions, writing and music
I will be strapping on my saw and playing a few ditties with this lineup of musicians, the "Circle of Jerks". It will be a fantastic evening of acoustic music and poetry. Nelson Sobral is a singer songwriter to watch. He's in about a kazillion bands due both to his talent and presence. Joining me poetic style in this evening are the fiantastic Lizzie Violet and Vanessa McGowan. I cannot wait to see what we come up with.
Find the Facebook invite here
I will be strapping on my saw and playing a few ditties with this lineup of musicians, the "Circle of Jerks". It will be a fantastic evening of acoustic music and poetry. Nelson Sobral is a singer songwriter to watch. He's in about a kazillion bands due both to his talent and presence. Joining me poetic style in this evening are the fiantastic Lizzie Violet and Vanessa McGowan. I cannot wait to see what we come up with.
Find the Facebook invite here
Peterborough Haiku Deathmatch - Fri Oct 25th - Barbeside Salon - 8pm
Hometown proud! I am featuring at Peterborough's first Haiku Deathmatch. What an honour. It is being hosted in one of my favourite venues, that just got a liquor license! Cllllink! Find deets for Barbeside Salon here
How many haiku can I do in 20 mins? Hahaha, I'm just kidding, I'll do like some poetry or saw playin or somethin. More deets to come. Bring your haiku (recommended at least 20) and prepare for battle! Sign up by 7pm. More details to come. Booze! Haircuts! Blowouts!
How many haiku can I do in 20 mins? Hahaha, I'm just kidding, I'll do like some poetry or saw playin or somethin. More deets to come. Bring your haiku (recommended at least 20) and prepare for battle! Sign up by 7pm. More details to come. Booze! Haircuts! Blowouts!
The Socrates Cabaret - Peterborough - Saturday Oct 26th - 8pm
Can I say I've done everything in this theatre... yes.. yes I can, aside from like setting fire on myself there. It has been everything, a jungle gym, a gift of a lighting board, a boudoir, a backstage and onstage a.... I do go on.
This will be one of those unforgettable Market Hall nights. Join us, Cabaret Style.
Comedy
Burlesque
Music
Magic
Get your tickets now here
MORE sONGS and pOEMS - Tranzac Club - Sunday August 11th
How sublime!
This series centres around poets who also incorporate music into their work.
Be still my beating bongo heart. I can't wait to join the ranks of Robert Priest (OMG I'M FEATURING WITH ROBERT PRIEST) and series creator Max Layton!
What to expect? Music, poetry, and sweet insights, and maybe a few of Priest's incredible memes if we are lucky. This will be a wonderful event.
Sunday August 11th - 5pm to 7pm
The Tranzac - 292 Brunswick St. Toronto (Bloor and Bathurst area) Find the Facebook invite here
This series centres around poets who also incorporate music into their work.
Be still my beating bongo heart. I can't wait to join the ranks of Robert Priest (OMG I'M FEATURING WITH ROBERT PRIEST) and series creator Max Layton!
What to expect? Music, poetry, and sweet insights, and maybe a few of Priest's incredible memes if we are lucky. This will be a wonderful event.
Sunday August 11th - 5pm to 7pm
The Tranzac - 292 Brunswick St. Toronto (Bloor and Bathurst area) Find the Facebook invite here
The Dildettes Adorned in Pearls - Pearl Company Hamilton Fri Aug 16, 9pm
As a part of a wonderful theatre weekend in Hamilton, The Dildettes promise to turn your pearl necklace inside then out again. In the historic theatre, we will bring laughter, tears and maybe a bit of urine. No worries, The Dildettes welcome such excretive behaviour. David Bateman, myself and Regie Cabico aka "The Lady Gaga of Slam Poetry" cannot wait to make your night.
Find the Facebook invite here
Tickets in advance through thepearlcompany.ca - 15.00 or 10 for students or artists.
16 Steven St. Hamilton Ontario
Find the Facebook invite here
Tickets in advance through thepearlcompany.ca - 15.00 or 10 for students or artists.
16 Steven St. Hamilton Ontario
Gord's Place, St Catharine's Ontario - The Dildettes! Mon Aug 19th
Our Tour de Force continues. Regie Cabico, David Bateman and I will be wrapping hearts in sequins and making you laugh at the most profane things. Gord's place is beautiful, it has a divine back patio, delicious food and drinks. The summer is almost over, let's have us a hootenanny. Tickets are 10 dollars in advance (email me [email protected]), 15 (suggested) at the door. You don't want to miss this St Catharines! Find the Facebook invite here
Gord's Place 84 James Street. St Catharine's - Doors 730, Show 8pm
Crackerjack Lipsmacker Vancouver Youth Poetry Slam - Mon Aug 26th
The new youth slam season is underway as we continue awarding points to poets to qualify for the youth slam playoffs next spring. We have 2 rounds of 3 minute poems plus a poetry open mic and a poetry feature. The competition and open mic are open to all poets between the ages of 13-22. This month's featured poet is Toronto's Cathy Petch. Find the Facebook invite here
Cafe Deux Soleils 2096 Commercial Drive - Sign up 730, show 8pm
Cafe Deux Soleils 2096 Commercial Drive - Sign up 730, show 8pm
Ottawa Cap Slam Opener - The Mercury Lounge 730 p.m, Sept 7th
A cleeeeeean slate
Ottawa is a bit of my soul,
I wish I could bring all my friends to this one. We are going to have a blast
and one happy winner will have a season of being like "Oh I'd be worried if I hadn't been the freaking WINNER of the FIRST SLAM!"
High five. A High five to you.
Two rounds and an open mic and a heck of a lot of love for Cap Slam.
56 Byward Market Square Ottawa
Ottawa is a bit of my soul,
I wish I could bring all my friends to this one. We are going to have a blast
and one happy winner will have a season of being like "Oh I'd be worried if I hadn't been the freaking WINNER of the FIRST SLAM!"
High five. A High five to you.
Two rounds and an open mic and a heck of a lot of love for Cap Slam.
56 Byward Market Square Ottawa
St Catherine's Poetry Slam - July 5th - Finals 730 pm
Mathay Cafe and Lounge
241 St. Paul Street, Saint Catharines, ON.
THIS IS OUR FINALS!
THIS SLAM WILL DETERMINE WHO WILL BE ON THE ST. CATHARINES POETRY SLAM TEAM TO COMPETE IN TORONTO AND MONTREAL!
Competitors:
Thomas Hoad
KT
JC MOB
JayZen
Sarah Burgess
Jade
Jaimie Godard
and Featuring Cathy Petch
Looking to feature local talent in the OPEN MIC and poets in the SLAM, as well as inviting poets and poetry lovers from all over to come lend us your talent and your ears and make this night as awesome as it’s ever been
THIS SLAM WILL PAY $50 TO THE WINNING POET! Find the Facebook invite here
241 St. Paul Street, Saint Catharines, ON.
THIS IS OUR FINALS!
THIS SLAM WILL DETERMINE WHO WILL BE ON THE ST. CATHARINES POETRY SLAM TEAM TO COMPETE IN TORONTO AND MONTREAL!
Competitors:
Thomas Hoad
KT
JC MOB
JayZen
Sarah Burgess
Jade
Jaimie Godard
and Featuring Cathy Petch
Looking to feature local talent in the OPEN MIC and poets in the SLAM, as well as inviting poets and poetry lovers from all over to come lend us your talent and your ears and make this night as awesome as it’s ever been
THIS SLAM WILL PAY $50 TO THE WINNING POET! Find the Facebook invite here
Pussy Basket at Videofag - June 25th 187 Augusta Ave
I am so proud to be asked to feature at this series. I will be joined by the sublime bill bisset and my raunch goddess mentor extraordinare David Bateman.
We've paid tribute to Gertrude Stein (with Fleurus I and II) now it's time to pay tribute to Stein's wife Alice B. Toklas, aka Pussy, and their dog, Basket.
Join Queer Writes and Emcee Jade Elektra for an evening of bent word with bill bissett, David Bateman, Cathy Petch, Brock Hessel and The Neurotic Slores! Readings by David Bateman and bill bissett are funded by the League of Canadian Poets and The Toronto Arts Council.
There will be 5 minute slots for open-mic'ers throughout the night. Come and sign up early. Spaces are limited. PWYC! ($5 suggested)
Find the Facebook invite here
Rocket Reading Series - Friday June 21st, 7:30 pm
Come enjoy what the East End has to offer, kickass coffee (seriously) and vunderbar performers. Sandra Cardinal is happy to host this new eclectic series. There is an open mic too so come early and breathe in the gorgeous aromas and sign up
Teri Degler ( author)
Sage Tyrtle (storyteller)
Teneile Warren (playwright/poet)
Cathy Petch (Musician/Spoken Word Artist)
Rocket Coffee 1364 Danforth Ave - Free!
Teri Degler ( author)
Sage Tyrtle (storyteller)
Teneile Warren (playwright/poet)
Cathy Petch (Musician/Spoken Word Artist)
Rocket Coffee 1364 Danforth Ave - Free!
Merch Madness! Pitch and Poem - Monday May 13th
Toronto Poetry Project's first grant program is leading up to the Finals Show (FREE!), where the poets who want Toronto Poetry Project's money to make their own merch will compete in a Pitch and Poem event! Finalists need to perform one poem and then also pitch to the judges panel why they believe they should get funds for their project. Poets can use props, music, costumes, etc. The poets are vying for $1000 (first prize) and $500 (second prize).
Who's competing? Cathy Petch, The P.O.E., Jes Sachse, Ray Rasul, Heather Maciel, The Cinderella Story
And our esteemed judges panel? Check em out: Robert Priest, Andrea Thompson, Ian Keteku, Mahlika Aweri, and Canadian Idol judge Jake Gold
Featuring a short poetry set by Ian Keteku
This is a FREE SHOW! Everyone's welcome
Supermarket 268 Augusta in Kensington
730pm doors. 8pm show
Find the FB invite here
Who's competing? Cathy Petch, The P.O.E., Jes Sachse, Ray Rasul, Heather Maciel, The Cinderella Story
And our esteemed judges panel? Check em out: Robert Priest, Andrea Thompson, Ian Keteku, Mahlika Aweri, and Canadian Idol judge Jake Gold
Featuring a short poetry set by Ian Keteku
This is a FREE SHOW! Everyone's welcome
Supermarket 268 Augusta in Kensington
730pm doors. 8pm show
Find the FB invite here
Sunday May 12th - Lizzie Violet's Cabaret Noir
Featuring Vanessa Mc Gowan, the acapella group Kirsten Sandwich and Me!
Lizzie Violet’s Cabaret Noir is a monthly event that brings you an evening of indie artistry and cabaret. The mistress of ceremonies, Lizzie Violet will introduce cabaret stylings such as poetry, Spoken Word, music, Burlesque, comedy and a variety of other vaudeville style acts. Inspired by Vaudeville of the early 1900’s, it will be an evening of pure entertainment.
Q Space on College (382 College Street) from 7 pm to 10 pm. Keeping with the theme of cabaret’s roots, music will be unplugged, poetry will be edgy and the vaudeville will be sassy! Find the FB invite here
We will have limited open mic spots (for poets, performers and musicians). Sign up starts at 7. This is a PWYC event. (suggested price $5)
Location: Q Space on College (382 College Street)
Lizzie Violet’s Cabaret Noir is a monthly event that brings you an evening of indie artistry and cabaret. The mistress of ceremonies, Lizzie Violet will introduce cabaret stylings such as poetry, Spoken Word, music, Burlesque, comedy and a variety of other vaudeville style acts. Inspired by Vaudeville of the early 1900’s, it will be an evening of pure entertainment.
Q Space on College (382 College Street) from 7 pm to 10 pm. Keeping with the theme of cabaret’s roots, music will be unplugged, poetry will be edgy and the vaudeville will be sassy! Find the FB invite here
We will have limited open mic spots (for poets, performers and musicians). Sign up starts at 7. This is a PWYC event. (suggested price $5)
Location: Q Space on College (382 College Street)
Verses - The Canadian Individual Poetry Slam championships!
This incredible festival runs in Vancouver from April 8th to 13th. Feature shows with the likes of Regie Cabico, CR Avery, Sheri D, Haiku Deathmatches, a Mashed Poetics where I'm doing a duet with Andre Prefontaine to the tune of a kick ass Aretha Franklin cover band. And holy crap... competing with some of the best Canadian slam poets who are storming or repping their home slam. Mine's York Slam! Tell your friends. This is gonna get nasty and wonderful!
Mashed Poetics April 9th 8pm Verses Festival Vancouver
Mashed Poetics is a night of spoken word and music mash up where poetic collaboration and cross pollination occur and the divide between “page” and “stage” poets is blurred. A classic music album is chosen and poets are assigned a song from the album to create a new piece of work for the show. A cover band is also created to perform the chosen album live with poems performed in between the songs by the poets. Mashed Poetics has been running in Vancouver for the past three and a half years.
Mashed Poetics has been a part of the Verses Festival (formerly the Vancouver International Poetry Festival) since the festival’s inception. Previous album’s performed at the festival include Led Zeppelin’s Led Zeppelin IV and Licensed to Ill by the Beastie Boys. For the 2013 Verses Festival the album is Aretha Franklin’s Greatest Hits from 1971. And we are extremely happy to announce Chelsea Johnson will be performing the vocals for this show.
The Grandview Legion, 2205 Commercial Drive $10 bucks at the door or free if you went to the event before, or have a pass
Mashed Poetics has been a part of the Verses Festival (formerly the Vancouver International Poetry Festival) since the festival’s inception. Previous album’s performed at the festival include Led Zeppelin’s Led Zeppelin IV and Licensed to Ill by the Beastie Boys. For the 2013 Verses Festival the album is Aretha Franklin’s Greatest Hits from 1971. And we are extremely happy to announce Chelsea Johnson will be performing the vocals for this show.
The Grandview Legion, 2205 Commercial Drive $10 bucks at the door or free if you went to the event before, or have a pass
TIP Feature! Sunday Apr 7th 8pm 650 Broadview Ave, Lydia's Pub, Saskatoon
Ok.. I had to leave Charles Hamilton's write up in because it made me blush like a schoolmarm.
Hey Everybody! Guess who is here for her first Saskatoon feature after ripping it up at CFSW? Cathy "*%^&#$$" Petch! Come on down for an amazing night of one of my personal heroes, pushing the boundaries of Canadian poetry.
Saskatoon is where it's at. This show I'm it! Huge pride "Tonight it's Poetry"
Page Vs Stage - Tues April 2nd - Supermarket 268 Augusta Ave Toronto
It’s showdown time.
Being the first rep for York Slam for this year’s Canadian Individual Poetry Slam doesn’t pay very well and mama needs a plane ticket home. So instead of looting houses or hooking out my dog I’ve decided to pit my fellow poets against each other in an epic battle.
Who? Who will win the incredible trophy and drink tickets? Will it be Page Poets or Slam Poets? It’s time to put this rivalry to the test in a series of fantastical and ridiculous games. I will be revealing some of the challenges pre show (like “The Distractor” and “Shakespeare goes G”) so keep an eye on this page and don’t miss this harrowing evening.
I will also do a little feature because why the hell not?
Sign up now to take the first three spots on either team, the rest of the team will be decided at the door. Come early to rep your people. Are you stage or page? Come down and scream for your team, the crowd will help decide the winner.
Signup and door 730pm, Weirdass show at 8pm
10 bucks cover (lover)
Being the first rep for York Slam for this year’s Canadian Individual Poetry Slam doesn’t pay very well and mama needs a plane ticket home. So instead of looting houses or hooking out my dog I’ve decided to pit my fellow poets against each other in an epic battle.
Who? Who will win the incredible trophy and drink tickets? Will it be Page Poets or Slam Poets? It’s time to put this rivalry to the test in a series of fantastical and ridiculous games. I will be revealing some of the challenges pre show (like “The Distractor” and “Shakespeare goes G”) so keep an eye on this page and don’t miss this harrowing evening.
I will also do a little feature because why the hell not?
Sign up now to take the first three spots on either team, the rest of the team will be decided at the door. Come early to rep your people. Are you stage or page? Come down and scream for your team, the crowd will help decide the winner.
Signup and door 730pm, Weirdass show at 8pm
10 bucks cover (lover)
Sunday February 24th 7:30 The Great Hall
When I saw this show last year, all I knew is that I wanted to get in that ring. I got, like, a new shirt for this and everything.
Witness 16 of your favourite poets going head to head in the middle of a boxing ring, where only one will be crowned the Last Poet Standing!!
Here is the FB invite and have a look draw for this year's show:
BRACKET 1
Sean Warren vs. Cathy Petch
Tomy Bewick vs. Craig Buckle
V vs. Dan Murray
Brandon Williamson vs. Deonte Osayande
BRACKET 2
Patrick DeBelen vs. Emilee
Gavin Russell vs. IF
Lip Balm vs. The P.O.E.
Brian Millado vs. Wes Ryan
And now, the excitement begins. Advance tickets will go on sale in a couple of weeks!!
Witness 16 of your favourite poets going head to head in the middle of a boxing ring, where only one will be crowned the Last Poet Standing!!
Here is the FB invite and have a look draw for this year's show:
BRACKET 1
Sean Warren vs. Cathy Petch
Tomy Bewick vs. Craig Buckle
V vs. Dan Murray
Brandon Williamson vs. Deonte Osayande
BRACKET 2
Patrick DeBelen vs. Emilee
Gavin Russell vs. IF
Lip Balm vs. The P.O.E.
Brian Millado vs. Wes Ryan
And now, the excitement begins. Advance tickets will go on sale in a couple of weeks!!
SlaMusic - Feb 19th 730 pm
CR Avery, My Toronto Poetry Slam Team and a Musical Slamoff
Whether it's an Ipod backing you up or Leonard Nimoy on the theramin, you need music to go with your poem.
2 rounds of musically backed poems No costumes, no covers (poems, the tune can be anyone's) 3min 10 seconds
No lineup for sign up. THIS IS A PRE REGISTERED EVENT! Register here or email me.
What else do you get at this fabulous event?
C.R. Avery doing a fiantastic lil feature, The slammusical maestro himself! and The Toronto Poetry Slam Team showing off the team pieces that got us 3rd in Canada!
Let's rock this joint. Grab your geeeetar, your tin flute, your series of crystal wine glasses and get onstage! Then win INCREDIBLE PRIZES!
There is also a short open mic, music themed. Yessasss.
10 buckaroos! At Supermarket 268 Augusta Ave. Doors 730, show 8pm
2 rounds of musically backed poems No costumes, no covers (poems, the tune can be anyone's) 3min 10 seconds
No lineup for sign up. THIS IS A PRE REGISTERED EVENT! Register here or email me.
What else do you get at this fabulous event?
C.R. Avery doing a fiantastic lil feature, The slammusical maestro himself! and The Toronto Poetry Slam Team showing off the team pieces that got us 3rd in Canada!
Let's rock this joint. Grab your geeeetar, your tin flute, your series of crystal wine glasses and get onstage! Then win INCREDIBLE PRIZES!
There is also a short open mic, music themed. Yessasss.
10 buckaroos! At Supermarket 268 Augusta Ave. Doors 730, show 8pm
Comedy Night at The Central Pub - Tuesday Feb 12th 8pm
These are the pros of prose coming to the stage with hilarious poems and thoughtful jokes. Join us for an amazing night featuring some of the city's best wordplay artists.
Featuring :
White Noise Machine- Profane, profound, political – White Noise's poetry swings between baroque and bombastic.
That Brown Bastard! -Founding member of seminal spoken word oddities The StrapOns.
Cathy Petch - Toronto Poetry Slam team member, 3rd place 2012 Canadian Championships.
Chris Robinson - Pleasure of opening for some great comedians like Bill Bellamy and Eddie Griffin at Toronto’s best theatres.
Dave Merheje - He possesses uncanny ability to take you on a wild comedic journey that leaves you bursting with laughter, which is what has gained him such a loyal following. He gives you an arithmetic interpretation of urbanized life delivering one of the most original acts emerging in Canada.
MC'd by Anto Chan - Comedian who loves poetry as he PunFu's his way across Toronto's stage performance scene.
Open Mic spots available, contact Anto!
Featuring :
White Noise Machine- Profane, profound, political – White Noise's poetry swings between baroque and bombastic.
That Brown Bastard! -Founding member of seminal spoken word oddities The StrapOns.
Cathy Petch - Toronto Poetry Slam team member, 3rd place 2012 Canadian Championships.
Chris Robinson - Pleasure of opening for some great comedians like Bill Bellamy and Eddie Griffin at Toronto’s best theatres.
Dave Merheje - He possesses uncanny ability to take you on a wild comedic journey that leaves you bursting with laughter, which is what has gained him such a loyal following. He gives you an arithmetic interpretation of urbanized life delivering one of the most original acts emerging in Canada.
MC'd by Anto Chan - Comedian who loves poetry as he PunFu's his way across Toronto's stage performance scene.
Open Mic spots available, contact Anto!
Draft Reading Series - Sunday February 3rd 3pm
It will be a daft drafternoon. Please join me for this incredible lineup of some of my favourite poets. At the end of the reading there is a little publication of our collaboration. Amazing idea!
This is their website - the location is The Merchants of Green Coffee - 6 Matilda st. Toronto
Please join us for
Draft 8.4
With new work by
Ian Burgham
Luciano Iacobelli
Melissa Major
Cathy Petch
Barry Webster
Make sure to pick up your copy of Draft, a limited-edition publication available only at these readings.
This is their website - the location is The Merchants of Green Coffee - 6 Matilda st. Toronto
Please join us for
Draft 8.4
With new work by
Ian Burgham
Luciano Iacobelli
Melissa Major
Cathy Petch
Barry Webster
Make sure to pick up your copy of Draft, a limited-edition publication available only at these readings.
Seriously? Mini Tour de Force Petch, Bateman, Cabico Peterborough Jan 11th, Toronto Jan 12th
For years David Bateman and I have made magic together. We are sharing the stage with the incroyable Regie Caboico. We are doing a mini tour of Toronto and Peterborough.
Join our bermuda triangle.
Regie Cabico is a critically acclaimed poet who has won top prizes in the 1993, 1994 and 1997 at National Poetry Slams. His work appears in over 30 anthologies including Aloud: Voices from the Nuyorican Poets Café, Spoken Word Revolution, Chorus & The Outlaw Bible of American Poetry . He has shared the stage with Patti Smith, Allen Ginsberg and through Howard Zinn's Portraits Project at NYU, has performed with Stanley Tucci, Jesse Eisenberg & Lupe Fiasco. more here
David Bateman - is a visual artist, performance poet, and playwright whose most recent performance piece, Does this Giacometti Make Me Look Fat? or Art Immuno Deficiency Syndrome, was presented in New Orleans in the spring of 2010. His two collections of poetry, Invisible Foreground and Impersonating Flowers, have been published by Frontenac House (Calgary). Frontenac has also published his collaborative long poem entitled Wait Until Late Afternoon, written with poet/novelist Hiromi Goto. more here
Peterborough - Friday January 11th, Barbeside Salon - 131 Hunter St W, Doors 730, show 8pm
Toronto - Saturday January 12th, Q space , 382 College St. 730 door, show 8pm - a wonderful book shop and performance space, home to Quattro books is hosting the likes of us. Come for the show, avoid awkward conversations by picking up books instead.
Join our bermuda triangle.
Regie Cabico is a critically acclaimed poet who has won top prizes in the 1993, 1994 and 1997 at National Poetry Slams. His work appears in over 30 anthologies including Aloud: Voices from the Nuyorican Poets Café, Spoken Word Revolution, Chorus & The Outlaw Bible of American Poetry . He has shared the stage with Patti Smith, Allen Ginsberg and through Howard Zinn's Portraits Project at NYU, has performed with Stanley Tucci, Jesse Eisenberg & Lupe Fiasco. more here
David Bateman - is a visual artist, performance poet, and playwright whose most recent performance piece, Does this Giacometti Make Me Look Fat? or Art Immuno Deficiency Syndrome, was presented in New Orleans in the spring of 2010. His two collections of poetry, Invisible Foreground and Impersonating Flowers, have been published by Frontenac House (Calgary). Frontenac has also published his collaborative long poem entitled Wait Until Late Afternoon, written with poet/novelist Hiromi Goto. more here
Peterborough - Friday January 11th, Barbeside Salon - 131 Hunter St W, Doors 730, show 8pm
Toronto - Saturday January 12th, Q space , 382 College St. 730 door, show 8pm - a wonderful book shop and performance space, home to Quattro books is hosting the likes of us. Come for the show, avoid awkward conversations by picking up books instead.
Christmas Anti-Pageant Show Thursday December 20th
Really the flyer says it all. This is always a really fun show for those of us who like to have a laugh during a stressful season, or just have a laugh.
Always included in James Dewar's fine series is a poetry themed challenge where the topic is announced that night, and an open mic.
I just know Duncan Armstrong is going to know the exactly right sweetly disgusting thing to say about the season.
And Kirsten Sandwich? Hells, I cannot wait to see what they have in store.
And Sue? And Kate? Do NOT miss this!
Always included in James Dewar's fine series is a poetry themed challenge where the topic is announced that night, and an open mic.
I just know Duncan Armstrong is going to know the exactly right sweetly disgusting thing to say about the season.
And Kirsten Sandwich? Hells, I cannot wait to see what they have in store.
And Sue? And Kate? Do NOT miss this!
Plasticine Christmas Feature Sunday December 16!
There will be some yuletide, there will be joyousness.
Every year I get to complain about this wonderful holiday, with you my Plasticine Family. Come join us for a wonderful evening. Our features will be
Open Mic (3 mins)
Lizzie Violet
David Clink
Lisa DeNikolits
and Mememememe Cathy Petch!
I have something special planned...
Pauper's Pub 539 Bloor St W near Bathurst, 2nd Floor 7pm
Every year I get to complain about this wonderful holiday, with you my Plasticine Family. Come join us for a wonderful evening. Our features will be
Open Mic (3 mins)
Lizzie Violet
David Clink
Lisa DeNikolits
and Mememememe Cathy Petch!
I have something special planned...
Pauper's Pub 539 Bloor St W near Bathurst, 2nd Floor 7pm
Poetry Gallery Feature November 27th
I've been asked by one of my favorite poets, Banoo Zan, to do a feature for a wonderful new series. Come kick off the first night with me!
Poetry Gallery
Open–stage night of music and poetry on the 4th Tuesday of every month
Admission: free, hat will be passed
Time: Tuesday, November 27th, 2012
Place: Queen Gallery, 382 Queen Street East
Email: [email protected]
Tel: (416) 361-6045 http://queengallery.ca/
Feature: Cathy Petch
Host: Bänoo Zan Doors open: 6:15 p.m.
Sign-up: 6:30 p.m.
Thursday November 8th 7pm, The Beautiful and the Damned
The Beautiful and the Damned is a Poetry Cabaret every second Thursday of the month at Glad Day Bookstore 598 Yonge Street (upstairs)).
Come join us for a magical night of poetry, cabaret and decadence.
Sign up for open Mic is at 7:00 pm. Spots are limited, sign up early.
All The Beautiful and The Damned events are pay what you can.
The November edition will be hosted by the stunning David Bateman (who is my mentor both as a host and writer)
Starring Lara Bozabalian, Cathy Petch and Singer/Songwriter Heather Hill
Fundraiser for Tanzania Wednesday Oct 3rd Featuring My Slam Team
Jambo! (Hello!) Come out for a fabulous night of spoken word, live music, and awesome local talent!
Get ready for a whole spectrum of rhythm, featuring AMAZING performances by: The Toronto Poetry Slam Team ,Killa Beatz ,Casey Yugo, Dale Luarca, Melissa Bel ,The Dreamboats,Morning Thieves and music by DJ Gio at Lambadina Resto Lounge, 2nd floor (just seconds from Ossington Station)
Doors 8pm; Show starts at 8:30pm. Pay-what-you-can donation!
All proceeds go to Youth Challenge International, a Toronto non-profit global youth development organization, in support of Gloria's volunteer trip to Tanzania.
Come to listen, groove, drink, laugh, support, and have a great time. You won't want to miss it!!
Just For Laughs Festival Sept 21st, The Garrison 7pm
Join me and the fabulous Toronto Poetry Slam Team for our feature at this year's Just For Laughs festival.
The festival includes some incredible personalities like Louis CK, Kelly Carlin, David Suzuki, Dave Bidini and more. Get a festival pass now. Ok, we'll try again, get your festival pass NOW
We will be battling the Burlington Slam Team at the Garrison (1197 Dundas St. W) in a battle of wits, rhyming, timing and slamming. See what's we're bringing to CFSW.
The festival includes some incredible personalities like Louis CK, Kelly Carlin, David Suzuki, Dave Bidini and more. Get a festival pass now. Ok, we'll try again, get your festival pass NOW
We will be battling the Burlington Slam Team at the Garrison (1197 Dundas St. W) in a battle of wits, rhyming, timing and slamming. See what's we're bringing to CFSW.
Patio Dreams In Leslieville Saturday Sep 8th, 8pm
The Toronto Poetry Slam Team will host a night of Poetry, Performance and Gorgeous Music on Nathalie Roze &Co's beautiful side patio. Come shop, have a bevy and drink in the delicious evening at 1015 Queen St East (near Pape). The door money will go to help get the team to the Canadian Nationals in Spoken Word, this year in Saskatoon! 10 bucks
Feature by our Team, Britta B., Cathy Petch, Noah Kaplan, Tanya Neumeyer and David Delisca
Reading by David Bateman, who's launching his new book 'Tis Pity
Music by Fire Flower Revue - Listen here!
Feature by our Team, Britta B., Cathy Petch, Noah Kaplan, Tanya Neumeyer and David Delisca
Reading by David Bateman, who's launching his new book 'Tis Pity
Music by Fire Flower Revue - Listen here!
Slamtario, 10 teams 2 days! 918 Bathurst July 13th and 14th
SLAMtario (the new provincial slam poetry championship tournament) is a joint venture between Cytopoetics and Open Minds Respect Events. This event will bring together the top slammers from across the province for two days of slamming amazingness, with a top prize of $1,000 for the winning team!
The event will take place on July 13-14 at the918 Bathurst Centre for Culture, Arts, Media & Education in Toronto. Up to ten teams will participate in the first year. This will be the only slam championship in Canada where youth teams will compete on an equal footing to “senior” teams. It is also the first slam championship in the country that will include team alternates as full members of their slam teams in the bouts. Tickets and details here
The event will take place on July 13-14 at the918 Bathurst Centre for Culture, Arts, Media & Education in Toronto. Up to ten teams will participate in the first year. This will be the only slam championship in Canada where youth teams will compete on an equal footing to “senior” teams. It is also the first slam championship in the country that will include team alternates as full members of their slam teams in the bouts. Tickets and details here
Shane Koyzan and Short Story Long - Tues July 10th, Drake Underground
It's always a treat to see one of the Canada's most beloved poets rock the stage with his band the Short Story Long! And they're coming back to Toronto for one night only!
You'll also get a chance to see an opening set by the Toronto Poetry Slam Team! They are: Cathy Petch, Noah Kaplan, Britta B., David Delisca, Tanya Neumeyer
$15. Tix only available at door
7pm door. 8pm show
When the Drake reaches capacity...so it goes! Don't be late!
Thursday June 28th, 2012, 8pm The Annex Live! Feathertale Launch!
On June 28, 2012, Feathertale will test this country’s obscenity laws with the single greatest party ever to be hosted on Planet Earth.
To commemorate the joint release of The Feathertale Review #9 (a modern magazine in classic form) and Feathertale’s Big Book of Exquisitely Egregious Poetry and Diverse Versification and So Forth and Such, Feathertale will take over a public ale house and perform another of its awkwardly humorous live comedy shows. The bespectacled Katie Daubs, Feathertale’s most effeminate scribe (she being a woman) has been blackmailed into hosting the event. She will be joined on stage by Ramon Peters (an Iowa man who once purchased a Feathertale T-shirt), Brett Popplewell (an indecent human being and Feathertale editor), and special musical guests Ryan Warner and the Moonlight Ride. But wait — there’s more. Sarah Barmak attempts to singlehandedly take on the entire Toronto Poetry Slam Team in what promises to be an ecumenically challenging affair guaranteed to both stimulate and lull your senses — AT THE SAME TIME.
Truth Or Dare Slam! - Tuesday June 19th, 2012
Supermarket, 268 Augusta Ave.
7 doors, 7:30pm signup, 8 show
Featuring The 2012 Toronto Poetry Slam Team:
and saucy surprising sexy guests like:
Burlesque Queen Bella Fox, of English Bells fame has just confirmed!
Hosted by Alessandra Naccarato
A Fundraiser Extravaganza for $10!! Only 10!!!
Deets here
Art Bar May 22nd - Feature
I am so happy to be featuring at this amazing long running series. Find the FB invite here. Also in the line up is the amazing and inspiring Liz Howard and Edward Baranosky. A great open mic and always a wonderful night. 8pm, Pauper's Pub. Just east of Bathurst on Bloor, south side, second floor. I've invited family, so I'll have to tailor it so I don't get grounded.. which might mean I'll be done in 5 mins. I kid, I kid.
Penta - "Alignment" May 12th - The Pearl Company, Hamilton
Spoken word is getting more attention all the time. Performers like Ian Keteku are at the forefront of this movement and PENTA is happy to have him, join our first installation piece "Alignment"
The night will be filled with inspiring talents like Truth Is..., Prufrock Shadowrunner, Hyf The Gypsy Sun, Brad Morden, Electric Jon, The Burlington 2011 Slam Team, Komi Olafimihan and myself.
Being a PENTA show, these poets will be surrounded by photography, music, film, movement...
What better way to experience a painting than to see it made from beginning to end while hearing the influences around it?
More info, more performers to come. Hamilton, we are bringing PENTA to your town, we will fill your beautiful space with our senses.
The night will be filled with inspiring talents like Truth Is..., Prufrock Shadowrunner, Hyf The Gypsy Sun, Brad Morden, Electric Jon, The Burlington 2011 Slam Team, Komi Olafimihan and myself.
Being a PENTA show, these poets will be surrounded by photography, music, film, movement...
What better way to experience a painting than to see it made from beginning to end while hearing the influences around it?
More info, more performers to come. Hamilton, we are bringing PENTA to your town, we will fill your beautiful space with our senses.
Peterborough Book Launch May 5th 2012
Not only am I having a book launch in my hometown, I'm also going to play a set with my kickass garage band "Wine With Everything". We have been influencing crazed skater punks for like 15 years.
How do you top a bloody pigs head and 8 litres of diseased urine? Come find out!
411 George St N, upstairs, starts at 9pm
How do you top a bloody pigs head and 8 litres of diseased urine? Come find out!
411 George St N, upstairs, starts at 9pm
Vancouver Poetry Slaaaam! April 16th
I've been thinking about how much fun this feature is going to rock. It's their semi finals so you know it will kick ass. The more poets I meet from Vancouver, the more I know my weirdness will find a grand home for a night. More deets here
Toronto Poetry Slam Finals - April 20th
Ok.. I'm repeating myself, but it's such good news!
Scott Woods from Columbus is coming to our town!
What a great night this will be. I finished second in the semis for Toronto, and now have to battle 8 of the best poets from the season to get on the team. Last year I was the alternate, this year who knows? What I do know is that I get to perform on one of the best stages in the city and that the night will be wonderful no matter what happens.
The Royal Cinema - 608 College St (College and Clinton) 8pm. Tickets on sale here!
Scott Woods from Columbus is coming to our town!
What a great night this will be. I finished second in the semis for Toronto, and now have to battle 8 of the best poets from the season to get on the team. Last year I was the alternate, this year who knows? What I do know is that I get to perform on one of the best stages in the city and that the night will be wonderful no matter what happens.
The Royal Cinema - 608 College St (College and Clinton) 8pm. Tickets on sale here!
Mississauga Poetry Slam April 24th
I'm loving Mississauga's new venue, easy to get to and it's pure rock and roll looking. A great new slam 2 rounds and a 100 dollar cash prize... CASH.
Plus, it's hosted by the gorgeous and talented Lip Balm, one of the most punk ass pure hearts I know.
Here's the Facebook invite for more details
Plus, it's hosted by the gorgeous and talented Lip Balm, one of the most punk ass pure hearts I know.
Here's the Facebook invite for more details
Wonder Women.. duh na na na na na na na nhuuuu April 25th
My sweet Mz Carolina Smart thinks on her feet.
A smokin' line up of rock star ladies who want your money and attention for victims of domestic abuse.
Come out to the Central Pub in Toronto (just south of Honest Ed's) 8pm.., bring your hearts, your minds and your mirth.
Let's join forces.
A smokin' line up of rock star ladies who want your money and attention for victims of domestic abuse.
Come out to the Central Pub in Toronto (just south of Honest Ed's) 8pm.., bring your hearts, your minds and your mirth.
Let's join forces.
RDRR Thursday March 29th
I cannot wait.. well I'll have to... for this show. Mike Lipsius is all kinds of fantastic as a host and this is a wonderful series. Regal Beagle 355 Bloor St W. near St George Station, Toronto 8pm. I am joined by the ranks of some of the best there is! Robert Priest! David Clink! Exclamation Mark! ... ok exclamation mark isn't really on the list. I made that part up.
Plasticine Poetry Sunday March 25th
I am so excited for this month's installment of Plasticine Poetry. I get to host some amazing poets on the second floor of Pauper's Pub, 6pm (Bloor st S side just east of Bathurst). Join me, creative director Micheal Fraser and many more in hearing the works of David Day, Greg "Ritallin" Frankson, Damian Rogers and Kateri Lanthier.
Hosting Mississauga Slam! Christian Drake features! March 27th
Bring your game people.
There's 100 dollars up for grabs and fancy prizes in shiny bags, and.. oh yes, he's going to turn this room on it's side, the fiendishly fantastic Christian Drake.
Naughty Nadz Bar and Restaurant
1590 Dundas St East
730 pm sign up.
Toronto Poetry Slam Semi Finals - March 31st
A chance at a place on the 2012 Toronto Poetry Slam Team an amazing night 12 poets vying for 4 spots. The Drake Underground 7pm Doors. This will sell out early. More deets here
A Sweet Ass Book Launch Poster
What better way to spend an evening in Greektown? Hot Sauced Words is one of my very favorite reading series hosted by James Dewar. The night includes the very entertaining Daniel Scott Tysdal as well as and open mic, poetry-themed challenges and sparkling conversation.
February 1st 2012, join me as the Toronto Poetry Project Presents the annual Woman Of The World qualifier for the international competition to be held in Denver Colorado.
Featuring the always alarmingly amazing Lishai.
8pm, The Boat, 158 Augusta Ave, Kensington Market Toronto
Featuring the always alarmingly amazing Lishai.
8pm, The Boat, 158 Augusta Ave, Kensington Market Toronto
On Saturday January 28th I'll be featuring at Guelph Slam's Erotica Night. Which will be highly eroticized.
Guelph's annual event is a night of all things sexay, so bring that sweet outfit from the back of your closet out and toast who you are!
Along with the insipidly inspiring Kay'la Fraser and Meme
Guelph's annual event is a night of all things sexay, so bring that sweet outfit from the back of your closet out and toast who you are!
Along with the insipidly inspiring Kay'la Fraser and Meme
