Mental Health Awareness Week - illustration of a thought bubble, a brain, a microphone and a drum, plus METRO logo METRO Charity

METRO is delighted to be offering two incredible events: one evening of spoken word on the theme of mental health, showcasing some incredible LGBTQ+ artists, and a daytime event of wellbeing workshop taster sessions, where attendees can try their hand and creative writing, steel pan drumming, and more. Both events are open to all, on a pay-what-you-can basis, with a suggested ticket price of £10. All monies raised will go directly towards the continued facilitation of METRO's Mental Health and Wellbeing Domain services, which provide vital support the local community.

Well being, Well-Written, Well said!

Join us for a showstopping, intimate evening, as we explore mental health themes and topics through various performances styles and art forms, including spoken word, poetry, and more! This event is a beautiful opportunity to connect with your local community, hear some powerful, moving and just incredible spoken word in a safe LGBTQIA+ space, and support exceptional local talent. Featuring performances from a cast of phenomenal local artists including Antonia Jade King,Icykal, Rick Dove and Robin Lamboll!

  • Rick Dove Rick is a queer and neurodivergent poet and activist from South West London. He was crowned the Hammer & Tongue UK Poetry Slam Champion at the Royal Albert Hall in 2021, while his debut full collection, Tales From the Other Box, was published in August 2020. Rick has performed across the UK and internationally, his work explores themes of social justice, philosophy, and identity, and drawing on science fact and fiction, folklore, and mythology.
  • Icykal Hailing from South East London, Icykal (pronounced icicle) is a rapper and singer with a dynamic style that fuses elements of jungle, drum and bass, dancehall, reggae, and 90s hip hop. With a career spanning over a decade, Icykal has established herself as a respected artist in both the UK and France, where she spent 10 years honing her craft. Drawing inspiration from Jamaican dancehall and reggae artists, as well as iconic 90s hip hop acts like Missy Elliott, Queen Latifah, and MC Lyte, Icykal brings a fresh and unique sound to the music scene. 
  • Antonia Jade King Antonia is one of the hosts of Boomerang Club, and a previous Hammer & Tongue finalist. She has featured at Poetry and Shaah and Heaux Noire and was part of Apples and Snakes Writing Room programme in 2018. She has performed at numerous events including Love Supreme festival and Rallying Cry at Battersea Arts Centre. She was also a Barbican Young Poet and her debut pamphlet 'She Too Is a Sailor' is out with Bad Betty Press
  • Dr Robin Lamboll Robin is a scientist who researches climate change at Imperial College London, and writes poetry inspired by the intersection between the human and natural world. Robin has won the UK, Vogon and Madrid International poetry slam finals, and came second in the World Cup of Slam in 2019. They have given a TEDx talk and been published across the web including Perverse, Experimental Words, Eunoia Review and Consilience.

Reflect, recharge, rhythm!

  • Saturday, May 20 · 12:00 - 3:30pm
  • Mulberry Centre, New Cross, Main Hall (dining hall) 15 Amersham Vale London SE14 6LE
  • Tickets on EventBrite

Join us for a trio of bespoke workshops centred around wellness and positive mental health messaging, including...

  • Reflection through Poems - An Introduction to Poetry Workshop with UK Slam Champion poet and writing facilitator Rick Dove
  • Feel the Rhythm! - An Introduction to Steel Pan Drumming with Endurance Steel Orchestra
  • Plus more (TBC)

This event is a fantastic way to socialise with your local community, find out more about Mental Health and Wellbeing services available in the area, and to try new activities! Through our workshops, you will be able to reflect and connect with your own wellbeing, and develop new skills. Please note, this event is suitable for all ages. People aged 16+ are welcome to attend without supervision. Anyone aged under 16 must be accompanied by a designated adult.