Oxford is no stranger to open mic nights, but new-kid-on-block Hot Rats intends to bring a fresh spin on the format with their kaleidoscopic, zany monthly night of poetry, drag, cabaret, comedy and burlesque. After a successful first outing in September, October's event has already sold out. We caught up with co-creators Abbie, Nina and Jon to find out the hype behind the night, which is based in the locally beloved dungeon that is The Library Pub's basement.
Daily Information: Hi! thanks so much for taking the time to speak with us today. Talk me through how Hot Rats came to be.
Hot Rats: Hot Rats was born one hot summer's eve. We met at the pub after a poetry night and after six (seven?) pints we started talking about what it means to be a rat, and it dawned on us that Oxford needed to see immediately every debauched thought we’ve ever had live on stage, and if our friends could share theirs too - even better.
DI: The evening welcomes a wider range of performances - from spoken word to comedy to drag to performance art - than most open mics. Why was it important to incorporate so much variety?
HR: We wanted to create a queer friendly space in Oxford that felt completely safe and freeing, a night where anything goes. We wanted to create a space for alternative rats to express themselves in whatever form that may be.
DI: What are you most looking forward to at this month's show?
HR: Hot Rats is about sharing your filthiest, grimiest stuff. The stuff you aren’t sure you could showcase ever. We want it. Last month we saw performers own the theme of Hot Rats for themselves. We had poetry about Rats, and a poem about pornstars and a burlesque performance about vibrators. This month we have been inspired by 70s horror, so we are really excited to see what performers will have in store for us down in the basement…
DI: Who is this ‘perfect for fans of’? If you had to compare the vibes of your night to pieces of media, what would they be? You can be as abstract as you like.
HR:An ashtray. Anyone who has ever asked if they can borrow a lighter. The weird 5am vibes of an afters. A half eaten kebab. A used condom. You get the gist.
DI: How do performers sign up? and where they can find you online?
HR: This month's night has sold out (!) superfast, but generally you can send us a dm on Instagram (@hotrats.oxford) with your act in advance, or we have a few spaces to sign up on the door. It’s at The Library Pub down Cowley Road and it’s free!!
DI: Finally, please describe Hot Rats in three words.
HR: Filthy, naughty, fun.
Hot Rats is on the last Tuesday every month in the basement of the Library Pub on Cowley Road. October's session is sold out, so follow Hot Rats on Instagram or Eventbrite to find out when November 26th tickets to go live!