Erin Cooper-Jones reviews Nymphs & Thugs, one of Leeds Poetry Festival’s spoken word events.
It was a privilege to join one of the large audiences which the events at the Poetry Festival are known to attract, a large group who were united in their quiet respect for the artists, with a sense of warmth and friendly community. It was particularly heartwarming to witness the support for first-time performers.
Each of those who took to the stage had their own message, equally powerful and thought-provoking regardless of their style of delivery. Some were punchy, whose words about racism, LGBTQ+ and oppression were generated by experience and driven by urgent passion. Others captured the audience by voicing considered thoughts softly in measured tones, reaching out to listeners and being heard no less so than their fellow performers.
The relative novices were initially timid, and it was fascinating to watch as they grew in confidence. Some confessed that they were nervous, which was met with cheering and clapping from an audience who just understood and was ready to encourage and support every performer in equal measure. This released performers’ gestures – energised them to fully engage with all who were there.
Headliner Kirsty Taylor’s energy and rhythm were of course met with huge appreciation, for that gritty, down to earth philosophy of living on Bradford housing estates. The instant connection with all who were there was palpable.
Simone Yasmin’s powerful delivery on racism had me sitting up and taking notice; learning from her experience and hr perspective.
A poem about peri-menopause spoke out for any women struggling with hormones, in a humorous and relatable way that brought light on issues that can really bring women down. It made me laugh at a lot of struggles I have had with hormones instead of feeling bad about them.
One poet delivered a series of poems based on LGBTQ+ struggles which struck a chord with the audience because of the method used – it felt raw and real, especially when some of the words were put into song.
This was a session of mixed emotions. Sometimes we laughed in empathy or realisation; sometimes we pondered and we wondered about the worlds of the artists and their impact on our collective world.
No matter the message, what I really enjoy about spoken word gatherings is the respect. If you can relate to any of the stories, then that’s a great connection. If you are a stranger to what the words are telling you, then the environment of the performance itself, that level of listening and of respect, helps to begin a new connection.
Leeds Poetry Festival and driving forces behind spoken word events in Leeds, such as Matt Abbott, certainly have our respect.
Photographs by Erin Cooper-Jones.
