Under the Umbrella is a multilingual spoken word event where people share on stage in a safe, accepting environment. Based on radical vulnerability, cathartic cringe, and community building, our space allows participants read and share texts, images, audio, etc., not necessarily intended for a stage. This nonprofit, donation-based, volunteer-led event occurs regularly in Paris.
Our Vision
Under the Umbrella aims to create an open, inclusive space that encourages spontaneous sharing and radical vulnerability. The event brings together people from all backgrounds to connect through shared experiences, perspectives, and reflections, in multiple languages.
Our Values
Inclusion: Under the Umbrella is an explicitly LGBTQ+ friendly space that welcomes people of all identities, backgrounds, and abilities. First-time readers and anyone who has rarely seen themselves reflected in a literary space are as much a part of this community as anyone else. We welcome readings in all languages.
Respect: Every person who takes the stage or sits in the audience deserves to be treated with dignity. This extends to the real people featured in stories shared on stage. Violent language, including slurs of any kind directed at others, is not acceptable at Under the Umbrella.
Privacy: Participants are asked to use pseudonyms when referring to others, and to use their own judgment when sharing personal details. Organizers will never disclose a participant’s identity, contact details, or personal circumstances without their explicit consent. We ask that any recordings shared on social media be posted without sound.
Community: Sharing is cathartic individually, but true catharsis comes from the community’s collective presence and attention. Performers honor that dynamic by respecting the time and receptivity of the audience, and are asked to give a trigger warning before sharing content that deals with emotionally difficult topics.
Co-Responsibility: This space belongs to everyone in it. Organizers, performers, and audience members each carry responsibility for maintaining an environment that is safe and welcoming for all. Organizers retain the right to ask anyone who violates community values not to return to future events.
Open Dialogue: Community feedback is encouraged and actively considered in event planning. Organizers strive to remain accessible to all participants and maintain ongoing dialogue to improve the event’s accessibility, enjoyment, and safety.
Interested in joining our community?
Join our WhatsApp group by clicking the link below.
Join the Team
Feel like you could help us put on the show? We’re looking for photographers, videographers, and other volunteer organizers to help us bring our events to life in Paris.
Reach out to be part of the journey!
Under the Umbrella 