Aberdeen’s spoken word collective Speakin’ Weird collaborate with Light the Blue Festival to produce a special edition of their monthly open mic night aimed specifically at young people aged 18-30. Centring around the festival theme ‘looking forward / looking back’ we are inviting local young performers and a special headline act (to be announced) to take to the stage and share their latest material. We encourage performers wishing to take part to sign up on the night.

Suitable for ages 18+

Speakin’ Weird was founded by Orla Shortall in 2017, and has run monthly since then, with a few venue changes in that time – currently we have made our home at Gaelic Lane Cafe. Following Orla’s return to Ireland earlier in 2026, the event is now run and hosted by Hannah Nicholson, Aron Smith and Esmond Sage, all of whom have been part of the local spoken word scene for a number of years. Hannah is a former Scottish Book Trust New Writers Awardee, Aron hosts Brutha Voodoo’s Playlist Obscura on ShmuFM, and Esmond is involved in a variety of local causes. We bring a variety of headliners every month to our stage, as well as hosting an open mic, with the aim of fostering an environment which is welcoming and inclusive.

Light the Blue is our multi-artform festival for and by young people returning on 2 – 14 June 2026 with a programme of theatre, music, dance, visual arts and more taking place across Aberdeen city.

With over 24 events across 13 days, this year’s festival asks our artists and audiences What’s your story?

Whether  it’s  ‘our story so far’ or ‘our hopes and dreams for the future’ – our stories and imaginations can shape who we are, who we want to become and even the world around us.  

Join us for Light the Blue 2026, where over 1,000 young and professional artists, school pupils and early career creatives from across Scotland will come together to celebrate new and emerging talent, creating opportunities and connection.

GO TO LIGHT THE BLUE 2026