ZuiderWoord open poetry stage in Rotterdam South

HAPPENED 4 SEP 2026 | ZuiderWoord continued its open poetry programme in Rotterdam South in 2026, bringing established and emerging word artists together at venues across the area.

ZuiderWoord continues its open poetry stage in Rotterdam South

ZuiderWoord returned several times in 2026, continuing its role as an open stage for poetry, spoken word and other forms of word art in Rotterdam South. The latest edition we could verify was the eleventh, held on Friday 4 September 2026 at Theater Zuidplein.

The series gives both established artists and newcomers space to perform. Its open-stage format is designed for word artists who want to share new work, try something in front of an audience or simply take their first steps on stage.

Three ZuiderWoord editions in 2026

The ninth edition took place at Dokhuis on 27 February 2026. GEEL All-Caps, José van Zutphen and Von Solo were among the featured word artists, with PuurCalvin hosting the evening.

ZuiderWoord then moved to Podium Islemunda for its tenth edition on 29 May. Woosje Stuart, LETTERBAAS and ClarkDNA featured on the programme, alongside the open poetry stage.

The eleventh edition followed on 4 September at Theater Zuidplein. Joni van de Griendt, Simone Bais and Josse Kok appeared as featured word artists. PuurCalvin hosted the evening, while guitarist Seb Wrincq provided live musical accompaniment.

Open stage remains central to the event

Although each edition includes invited performers, the open stage remains at the heart of ZuiderWoord. Beginning and more experienced poets and spoken word artists are invited to share their own work alongside the programmed guests.

For the September 2026 edition, performers could contact ZuiderWoord by email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or through Instagram at @zuiderwoord about available places on the open stage.

Audience members did not have to register as performers. Admission to the September event was free, although Theater Zuidplein asked visitors to obtain a free ticket in advance.

A travelling poetry platform on Rotterdam South

ZuiderWoord does not operate from a single permanent venue. Recent editions have moved between cultural locations in Rotterdam South, including Café Dox, Podium Islemunda, Dokhuis and Theater Zuidplein.

The February 2026 edition was held at Dokhuis, followed by Podium Islemunda in May and Theater Zuidplein in September. This changing setting allows the programme to reach different neighbourhoods and audiences across the south of the city.

Latest verified edition

The latest edition we could verify took place on Friday 4 September 2026 at Theater Zuidplein, Gooilandsingel 95 in Rotterdam. Doors opened at 19:00 and the programme began at 19:30.

As of 18 September 2026, we have not found a confirmed announcement for a later ZuiderWoord edition in 2026. We will update this article when a new date is officially published.