Main reading - Derek Otte

Derek Otte is one of Rotterdam's most iconic voices and truly deserves a spot on the main stage at Poetry International. Known for his short, powerful poems often shared on Instagram, he will now perform longer pieces at the festival. During this special lecture, he will present his latest work, including a poignant tribute to the late poet Jules Deelder – another Rotterdam legend. His poetry, specially translated into English for this festival, gives international audiences the chance to experience his words. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience one of Rotterdam’s most beloved poets live during this main reading, hosted by Francis Broekhuijsen. 

Derek Otte

Derek Otte is a poet, spoken word artist, teacher, and dramatist who bridges the personal and the societal with his words. His poetry is both introspective and straightforward, exploring themes such as identity, urban life, and the position of the individual. What started as a way to overcome his stuttering grew into a versatile career: he was the house poet for FunX, the city poet of Rotterdam (2017-2018), and teaches spoken word at the Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences. He has published five collections, including On the Edge of Dreamland (2023), and has traveled through the Netherlands and Flanders in recent years with his theater performances De tijd is om and Tijd over.