Enjoy performances from poets and spoken word artists at TC Whiskey Co., featuring local poets and special guests Derek & Gleason!

Derek Welch is what happens when a poet, a reverend, a queer, a daydreamer, an herbalist, a storyteller, and a human all try to incarnate at the same time. Growing up in a religious community as a queer youth, Derek was prompted to delve into his imagination for the sake of safety, understanding, and to preserve a sense of wonder. Using metaphoric imagery, Derek has documented his internal experience for years; honing the magic of the written and spoken word in a way that translates and imparts the piece of him that the world couldn't touch - in hopes that somehow it reminds you of yours.

Gleason is a Michigan poet, songwriter, and performer with a compelling story and powerful voice. Raised in a fundamentalist evangelical cult where their faith was often at odds with their spirit; Gleason’s art is a reclamation of the divinity of queerness, an adventure in alchemy that seeks to find god in unexpected places. Their poetry has been featured by Curbside Splendor, Michigan Radio, Curve Magazine, and Diva Mag UK; and they have spoken and performed at TEDX events, Pride festivals, universities, corporate events, and poetry venues across the country.