Welcome to ‘Poeting Queer History’, where we celebrate the rich tapestry of LGBTQ+ experiences through the power of poetry. In a world where our voices may be marginalised, here they will find fertile ground to flourish. It’s time for us to reclaim our narratives, to speak our truths with pride and passion. Showcasing the theme of Queer history (in Amsterdam) in its broadest form. For the fourth edition, we will discuss the work of American poet, Emily Dickinson.
The evening will kick off with a short lecture by a queer historian, followed by four spoken word poetry performances highlighting the queer history of Amsterdam. We’ll wrap up with a lively “Queer & Answer” session featuring our performers and the historian. Produced and hosted by Tuaca Kelly, this night invites everyone from all sexualities, backgrounds, gender and affiliations with poetry or history to enjoy a night of community.
Origin story
Late one night after an open mic under in the center of Amsterdam under a canopy of men’s neck ties collected by the late Bet van Beeren (1902-1967), Leonie de Waal and Tuaca Kelly entered inspired chinwag about real life stuff, poetry and history. Clear they were on to something, a subsequent meeting gave birth to Poeting Queer History – a curated event featuring a historian, four spoken word artists and an engaging question and answer segment. Held in the movie theatre-style quieted and comfort of Pakhuis de Zwijger’s Studio room – this intimate evening draws audiences from beyond our city’s borders to travel through time and write history with us.
About the speakers
In 2026 she is debuting at the Edinburgh Fringe with her solo show “Pass the salt”. Exploring dinner tables, (chosen) family, queer love and all kinds of belonging.
