Australian Poetry Slam Champion Huda The Goddess and multi-instrumentalist Cieavash Arean join forces to explore childhood memories, journeys of exile and haven, and the pain that underlines it all. With bold words and exquisite melodies, they weave together the intergenerational parallels and contrasts of their efforts as activists using art to bring personal and political realities to the fore.

Huda The Goddess is a spoken word poet, educator, mental health advocate, dancer and workshop facilitator. She describes poetry as one of her senses that has allowed her to turn her experiences into art and maintain her connection to her people. She is the current Australia Poetry Slam Champion and two-time Queensland champ, as well as the founder and creator of Black Ink and ‘She Is' Collective.

Cieavash Arean was born in Tehran, Iran. A self-taught musician playing a number of instruments such as Barbat, Kamanche, Ney, Tar, Flute, Daf, Zorna, Ghoshme, Flute and Piano Accordion. Cieavash has performed at Woodford Folk Festival, QPAC, Customs and Government House, Brisbane Multicultural Festival and Brisbane Festival, among many others. He has also composed music for theatre and film, performing live for Queensland Theatre Company.

Presented in partnership with Studio 188.

About BEMAC Unplugged

BEMAC Unplugged is a series of shows that recreate the intimate vibe of BEMAC’s shows at Yungaba, showcasing diverse talent and inviting cross-cultural collaboration. For more information about BEMAC’s program of upcoming events, visit bemac.org.au/season/

7:30pm, Saturday 21 September
Studio 188
188 Brisbane Street, Ipswich
Tickets $25