STRICTLY 18+ - BYO

Doors 7.30pm / Show 8pm

This year, Therapy Sessions is returning to Belfast for an evening of poetry, stories and song at The Duncairn Arts Centre. Inuit and First Nations artists Taqralik Partridge, Melissa Shaginoff, Leslie Kachena McCue on tour from Canada will share poems, stories and music alongside an eclectic mix of Irish artists. 

Hosted by poet Stephen James Smith the artists will share the stage with Derry's experimental folk voice RUÁ, Belfast writer-performer Deirdre Anna Rose Kelly and Wexford singer-songwriter Rachel Grace. 

Expect honesty, empowerment and an evening that uplifts the audience.

TAQRALIK PARTRIDGE

Taqralik Partridge is a writer, spoken word poet and curator originally from Kuujjuaq, Nunavik, QC, now living in Ottawa, ON. Partridge's writing focuses on both life in the north and in southern urban centres, as well as the experiences of Inuit. She also incorporates throat singing into her  live performances.

MELISSA SHAGINOFF

Melissa Shaginoff is part of the Udzisyu (caribou) and Cui Ui Ticutta (fish-eater) clans from Nay'dini'aa Na Kayax (Chickaloon Village, Alaska). She is of Ahtna and Paiute descent. An interdisciplinary artist and museum specialist, she is currently working on Dena’ina lands in Dghayitnu (Anchorage). Melissa centers her art practice around conversation, seeking deeper understanding through moments of exchange and reciprocity.

LESLIRE KACHENA MCCUE

Leslie Kachena McCue is a member of the Mississaugas of Curve Lake First Nation, who has fought for Indigenous rights by breaking stereotypes and raising cultural awareness. Her work is driven by her past, her passion to educate, and the motivation to empower others.

Leslie is a Traditional dancer, an Indigenous Knowledge Resource Teacher, and the Coordinator for the Royal Ontario Museum Youth Cabinet. Leslie is a Resident Artist Educator for the 2017-2019 seasons, and is a part of the Drama School Faculty at Young Peoples Theatre.

She has a strong passion for supporting and promoting Indigenous artists through freelance in administration, tour management, fundraising, facilitation, and curation, with organizations such as: Chocolate Woman Collective, Kaha:wi Dance Theatre and the Indigenous Arts Festival.