“When the dust settles… we all have a story, a song, a poem, a truth in our hearts we want to articulate to the outside world,” says performing arts association Pe’Ta! as they organise a virtual Open Mic Night on February 5, inviting writers, poets and everyone in between who feels like sharing something to participate.

The lockdown may be easing soon but it will be a while before all measures are lifted and events can physically take place. Until then, online events continue to bring some joy.

Pe’Ta!, meaning ‘say it’ in Greek, whose full name is Pe Ta: Write it, Bring it, Say it, is a space for known and unknown writers, artists and budding performers to showcase their work in front of a live audience. Usually, they organise events and take part in writing festivals like the Poetry Slam Cyprus just last week. Now, bound to the realms of digital gatherings, they are hosting another online Open Mic Night.

Next week’s event will again take place on Zoom. The Cyprus Poetry Slam 2019 and 2021 Champion Argyris Loizou will host the event as co-found of Pe’Ta!. The event is free to attend and all languages are welcome, simply stick to original work and deliver it in under five minutes. “Our whole ethos,” say the organisers, “is to give as many people as possible a platform to share in front of a live and enthusiastic audience.”

Open Mic Night

Virtual event, hosted by Pe’Ta!. February 5. On Zoom. Free. 8pm