Efacis "You can choose to read the poems or you can choose to read my body." I am possibly paraphrasing here but this is how William Keohane began his performance, and I can't help but carry the spectre of his words in every encounter I have with performed poetry now. The way Keohane engaged his audience, guiding us into the text, left a deep, lasting impression. The combination of listening to his emphatic vocal performance while reading the projected 'boxed' text on the screen in front made us active participants. We couldn't help but immerse ourselves into the rhythm of every word, every line, every pause. As he walked through the space, reading poignant pieces on his experience with transitioning, his relationship with his mother, and more, we were suddenly transported into the scenes of each poem. That the lights had been turned off heightened the intimate encounter. It was truly an experience like no other. I am grateful to have witnessed the power of William Keohane's poems and performance!
Shefali Banerji (scholar)
***
William Keohane's performance was profoundly moving: the emotions in his voice, his body language, his movements through the room - it was impossible not to be touched. It was impressive to see how quickly he could switch from fear and pain at being rejected to joy at being completely and unconditionally accepted. His deeply expressive poetry and more distant, almost clinical essay "Assessments" complemented each other beautfully, lending gravity and nuance to both. His more theoretical reflections on the concept of boxes and how they shape us and our interactions were just as impactful. Overall, this evening has left me much to think about, and I will certainly reflect on it time and time again.
Annika Jungreuthmayer (student)
***
Watching William Keohane's performance of "Boxing Day" was a deeply emotional and truly memorable experience. He describes the ups, downs, joys, and pains of transitioning in a bravely personal way, making palpable the everyday experiences of living in a trans body that are often omitted in political discourse. He allows audiences to catch a glimpse of the humiliating medical gatekeeping for gender-affirming care, as well as the unbridled euphoria of recognising yourself in your new name. Boxing Day is such an important work, and I'm truly glad I got to experience it.
Marie Krebs (scholar)
***
William Keohane's event at the University of Vienna with his performance of Boxing Day in the focus was captivating, inspiring, and educational. The rigid uniformity of the box shape of the poems on the screen was contrasted beautifully by the change and emotion not only contained within the text but also in his three-dimensional performance of it. Keohane also talked about the struggles he faced as a trans person living in Ireland, especially regarding medical transition, offering an opportunity for cultural exchange. after the official event Keohane met every person who approached him with kindness, respect, and humble interest. All in all, it was an unforgettable experience.
Vic Schlosser (student)
(c) photo by Shefali Banerji
