Bolivarplaats becomes the setting for ‘Feast of Everyday Madness’ (Antwerp)
On 15 August, the Bolivarplaats in the South of Antwerp will be the setting for the Feast of Everyday Madness, an initiative of Café Boekowski that is located on the square. With a book and vinyl market, music and poetry performances, the café wants to organize a party for the neighborhood.
It is the second time that the Feast of Everyday Madness takes place on the Bolivarplaats. “We actually wanted to organize the first edition in 2020 to celebrate the 100th birthday of writer Charles Bukowski,” says owner of Café Boekowski Lucas Laeremans. But corona put a stop to that. “And so last year we celebrated his 101st and this year his 102nd birthday.” The name of the festival refers to the book ‘Stories of Everyday Madness’ by the German-American writer.
During the Feast of Everyday Madness, the Bolivarplaats is primarily a book and vinyl marketplace. “People who want to can still sign up to hold a stand themselves,” says Laeremans.
In addition, there are also various poetry and music performances. “We use the first steps of the Palace of Justice as a podium.” Part of the programming is put together by former city poet Stijn Vranken. He started about twenty years ago with ‘De Sprekende Ezels’, a concept in which he invites people to do their thing for 15 minutes. This ranges from poetry and stand-up comedy to music. He gives a stage to starting artists. In the meantime, De Sprekende Ezels is also being organized in various other cities, including Ghent, Brussels, Turnhout and Mechelen.” And on 15 August also at the neighborhood party on the Bolivarplaats.
“There will also be music performances by Prins Zonder Carnaval and The Moonlovers. We really want to bring ambiance to the square with them.”
mischievous
Café Boekowski has wanted to open its doors on the Bolivarplaats for five years now. The cafe with its walls full of books attracts customers from all walks of life. “Most people just come for the fun. And as a bar owner, I know my customers by name,” says Laeremans. “We regularly organize literature or music performances. Always Bukowski-worthy and therefore not too serious. It may be a bit naughty.”
“Because we set up so many activities, we have also set up a non-profit organization. It is with this non-profit organization that we organize the Feast of Everyday Madness on Mother’s Day, a party for the people in the neighborhood that we want to do every year. Because on behalf of the occasional apero event, not too much is being done at the Bolivarplaats yet.”
If you want to set up a single or vinyl booth, you can email to [email protected].