Poetry Speeddates

Always wanted to speeddate, but no idea what to talk about? With poetry speeddating, let the poems do the work. Under the guidance of our chairman of the day, Geoffrey van der Ven, you will take part in different rounds, each time reciting poems to the other. Poetry is also a vehicular language, a means of getting to know and understand the other. Take part in a few rounds and make new connections with your fellow poetry lovers at the festival.   

Geoffrey van der Ven (moderator) 
Geoffrey looks at the world with a curious eye. He experiences, listens and puts stories on the table. His pieces are sharp, critical and often activist. Readings are personal, built around queer and BIPOC identity. With his effervescent energy, he holds the audience and - between plays - gives them space to breathe and reflect. 

As a spoken word artist and theatre maker, he tells the stories that have gone unheard for too long. Geoffrey is currently on tour with his solo performance 'It's not new', in which he highlights Africa's queer history. Previously, he won the 'Poet of the Year' Award at Queer & Feminist Poetry Awards, his reading was featured at the Eurovision Song Festival, and he performed at major well-known venues and events, such as the New Luxor Theatre, Rotterdam Pride and Museum Night.