Standards of Behaviour
Hotchpotch is a monthly open-mic event hosted by Eilidh, where writers are encouraged to read their work to an audience. To help our events flow smoothly, we have drawn up Standards of Behaviour that attendees must abide by.
1. Respect the Space and Each Other
Please be considerate of everyone around you, including the host and venue staff. Harassment, discrimination, or heckling of any kind will not be tolerated. Anyone behaving inappropriately may be asked to leave. If you see or experience anything that makes you uncomfortable, speak to a host or a member of venue staff so we can help.
2. Content and Trigger Warnings
If your piece touches on heavy or potentially distressing topics, please give a quick heads-up before you start. This includes (but isn’t limited to) things like abuse, harm to animals, suicide, self-harm, eating disorders, or death. It doesn’t need to be in-depth—something as simple as “Trigger warning for X” works fine. This helps everyone enjoy the night while looking after their mental health.
3. During Performances.
Please avoid chatting, having your phone off silent or shouting out while someone’s on stage, unless they invite audience participation. We all trip over our words sometimes or share work that won’t be everyone’s cup of tea, and that’s okay.
4. Reading Time
Each performer has up to ten minutes (unless said otherwise at the start of the event). The host might let you go a little over now and then, but if it happens often, you’ll be gently reminded. Remember, some people need to leave early—it is a Monday night after all!
5. Trying Something New
Hotchpotch mainly sees poets, novelists and comedians on stage, but we love a bit of variety. Musicians, and other creatives—if you’ve got something different in mind, just have a chat with the host upon signing up. We typically pop musical acts after a break so there’s time for setup.
6. Photos and Recordings
We love seeing your photos and videos—but using flash is not permitted (some people are photosensitive). Always check with anyone who’ll be in the photo or video before you post as you never know if someone doesn’t want on social media. If you share online, tag #HotchpotchDundee so we can support you!
7. Bulletin Contributions are for attendees only
Our bulletins feature details of local events likely to interest creatives. If you are not already known to the host, please introduce yourself before submitting digitally. To be included, you must have attended the latest event. All submissions are considered, though final inclusion is at the host’s discretion to keep the bulletin relevant to our targeted audience.
8. Accessibility and Comfort
We want everyone to enjoy the night as much as possible. If you have any access needs or adjustments that could help you take part, please let the host know. While we can’t guarantee every request, we’ll always do our best within the space and resources we have.