MEET SPOKEN WORD POET TEAGAN WEBB
QVWC and Mother Tounge joined forces to curate a lineup of some of Melbourne's most inspiring voices for Melbourne Fringe Festival 2024. Five passionate poets, including Fleassy Malay, and Sevgi Boga, will take the stage, sharing their lived experience while you soak up the magic, leaving you inspired and energised. Meet one of the young performers Teagan Webb.
Tell us a little bit about yourself and your creative practice.
I’m a 17-year-old student who’s been writing poetry for 3 years. At first, I kept my poetry hidden, written on my wall behind my bedroom door, too scared to share my writing. But over the years, I’ve gained confidence, taken back my voice, and found power in sharing my story.
Wow you are only 17, that’s amazing! How did you get into spoken word poetry?
When I was younger, my sister showed me a video of spoken word poetry on YouTube. I found the words and the message beautiful, and every time I felt alone, I would always turn to listening to poetry. After some things happened in my life that were too big to keep in my head, I began writing my own poetry as a way to heal. Very quickly, my world became filled with words. No matter where I was or what I was doing, I was always thinking up a new poem.
If you had endless hours to pursue all your creative passions, what would be next on your list?
I am a very imaginative person and often get ideas that come to my mind, which I would love to be able to draw and bring to life. So, with hours to practice, I would love to develop my skills in sketching and painting.
What advice do you have for poets and spoken word artists wanting to get their message out into the world?
My advice would be to not have fear in speaking your truth. Every thought that comes to your mind or goes down on paper is worth being heard. Never be too afraid of judgment, because I’ve learned through my short journey of spoken word that when you stand up and speak your truth, not only will you find healing and strength, but you will find a family in all the wonderful souls brought together by this beautiful art form.