Paris is unfurling like a flower in Springtime and, along with the long-awaited sunshine, the literary scene in the City of Lights is bringing a smile to my face.
I've written articles on literary events going on across Paris before, but in a rather haphazard manner. So, as bouncy as an Easter bunny* (see bottom video for a visual), I'm going to start compiling a list of where to go if you're after some cultural goodness. Of course, being mother-tongue English, the majority of my posts will be catered towards an Anglophone pool of readers, but a few lucky frogs might just find a lily pad too.
In his own words - "Running since 2006, SpokenWord Paris is the biggest English open mic spoken word night in Paris. Started by me, David Barnes, and for the last few years hosted by myself and Alberto Rigetinni every Monday"- SpokenWord brings together regulars, travelling writers, and just about anyone else who's curious about the noise downstairs at Au Chat Noir. You don't need to be published to perform, you just sign up at 8pmevery Monday, and twiddle your thumbs over a beer until 9pm, when the party gets going, and doesn't stop until around midnight.
There are two rounds of ten five-minute slots, where you can read poetry/prose (your own or not), perform stand-up, play a song... almost anything! You can also just go along to listen, if performing isn't your thing. It's a great idea for going with a friend, or even on your own (which is what I prefer to do).
Check out their Facebook page for photos, links and more information, or website http://spokenwordparis.com/ for a great (and hilarious) rundown of the previous week's content. Or, alternatively, they also have a blog.
Recorded during a SpokenWord evening.
♥ ♥ ♥ Why I love it
Any literary scenerisks running into its fair-weather friend, Monsieur Pretension. SpokenWord Paris is anything but. Genuine fans of poetry, creativity and culture in general can find like-minded cousins of any nationality. Oh, and it's in one of my favourite areas. They used to be up in Belleville, which was also a great location, but now they're just a hop, skip and a jump from République. Win.
Where do I go??
Thnx Matt Seppings
Au Chat Noir 76 rue Jean-Pierre Timbaud 75011, Paris Métro Parmentier/Oberkampf
I'm outside! Once you enter the bar, head for the far right corner, go down the stairs, and listen to see if you can hear someone performing. Be polite and wait for applause before pushing the door open, as the floor is a bit creaky, and can be really distracting (as it was last Monday!) The best thing to do if you're running late is to order at the bar, wait for a break, and then head back down with everyone else.
Thinking of performing? It's an open-minded crowd, so don't be afraid (although there was a right tool sitting next to me last time who couldn't help commenting on everyone). Bear in mind that the acoustics aren't great, so speak clearly, and if possible please don't put yourself right behind the extremely inconvenient pole in the middle of the performing area.
Tune in next time for n°2 of my Literary Scene in Paris posts!
