This week saw the very first Portlaoise Spotlight Session at the Dunamaise Arts Centre.
Singers, songwriters, poets and creatives travelled from all across Laois and beyond to attend the evening dedicated to sharing original music and spoken word.
Turning the concept of the traditional Open Mic on its head, this night focused on celebrating people’s original works; with pieces being performed for the very first time, pieces created on the spot, and original music and voice filling the room.
Giving a supportive stage to the resounding creativity and talent teeming in Laois and the surrounding counties.
The Spotlight Sessions is a celebration of creativity and individuality. It is open and welcoming to all artists, regardless of experience.
‘Your words. Your music. Your stage.’
Local musician and one of the organisers of Portlaoise Spotlight Sessions, Paul Dermody, said:
“We had a fantastic first night in our Spotlight Sessions open mic for original works in the Dunamaise Arts Centre last Thursday where songwriters and poets from as far away as Tipperary gathered to share their work and ideas and meet other artists.”
Another joint organisers of the Spotlight Sessions is Dagogo Hart, a local spoken word artist, who said:
” It is more than just an open mic night – it’s a celebration of voices, a platform where stories are shared with music and poetry, that’s the reason we want to hear original work.
“It’s where artists from all walks of life connect, express their truths, and ignite conversations that matter.
“Every performance, whether by seasoned poets or first-timers, adds a unique layer to our growing artistic community here in Portlaoise.”
The next open mic will be Thursday, May 29, and will also be in the Dunamaise Arts Centre. All are welcome.
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