Desree, has been described as a much-needed voice in Poetry, as she explores intersectionality, justice and social commentary, occasionally throwing a fu*ckboy poem into the mix. A stage presence that draws you in and holds your focus, whether she’s performing the poetry or it’s written, her raw honesty is met with compassion and humour as she states facts. She’s been shortlisted for both the performance and film category in 2020 and is the recipient of 2019’s highly commended out-spoken performance prize. She’s done a TED talk and performed at events around the UK and internationally - most recently Glastonbury 2022. She also works as an educator and facilitator, using her art to engage with young people and adults in schools, youth groups, offices and organisations - anywhere people have a story. If that wasn’t enough, she published a book of poems “I Find Strength In Simple Things” in 2017 when she self-published, however, thanks to its success, Burning Eye Books republished the pamphlet in May 2021. It feels as though this is just the beginning for Desree, as she has the audience wanting more, in our chat we talk about her journey thus far, what defines an outstanding performance and that there is more to poetry than flowers and love.

Hi Desree, how are you today?

Swamped but grateful - got an inbox full of emails that need action and a short turnaround time for a commission, but all work I love doing!