Imagine a lively party, packed with energy. That’s what it’s like at Adult Entertainment, a vibrant event in East London. Filmmaker and poet Laurie Lynch describes it as a bustling atmosphere that’s hard to navigate. Then there’s Denisha Anderson, a photographer and filmmaker, who embraces the cozy, crowded vibe. She says it reminds her of a classic gathering where everyone’s trying to enjoy themselves, but with a twist—performers share their innermost thoughts and feelings, whether joyous or melancholic.
This event started with Massiah’s first poetry night called The A and the E at a bar in Balham. As it evolved, it hopped around different venues in Peckham and Shoreditch. During the lockdown, when gatherings weren’t possible, Massiah didn’t stop creating. He shared his poetry with friends on large sheets he calls Drafts. Once restrictions eased, he knew it was time to bring people together again, and Adult Entertainment was launched. “It’s time to get serious!” he laughs, emphasizing their growth from casual to passionate performers.
The name has a playful edge too. Massiah wants to keep the vibe light and fun. To maintain that energy, he insists on short performances. “One thing we believe in is that poetry should be quick and engaging,” he explains. Whether it’s a short story, a novel excerpt, or an essay, everything shared in that space is considered poetry. “No one reads for more than three to five minutes,” he says. “This is a party—we’re here to enjoy ourselves!” His enthusiasm captures the essence of the event, where everyone feels welcomed, inspired, and ready to engage with each other.
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