Aze’s Room returned for its third instalment earlier this February, proving that what began as a simple open mic has grown into something far greater than a night of spoken word.
Her first show of the year, and third overall, was hosted at Coqbul’s Tequila Room on O’Connell Street. Switching up from the previous two shows, it was a complete open mic with no prescribed acts, just brave attendees stepping up to show what they have got.
This time, the responsibility of hosting was handed to Munesu., an artist in her own right who also took to the stage to perform her work.
“When I pick up the pen, I get honest.”
Munesu.’s performance offered something unexpected.
“It’s something new and different from what I think a lot of people expect from me,” she explained. “When I pick up the pen, I get honest. I get raw about how I’m actually feeling on the inside.”
Known by many as bubbly, strong, and the caretaker in her circles, she explores the quieter, softer side of that identity in her writing.
“A lot of people are used to me being the strong one,” she said. “But I write about what it feels like to be on the opposite end of that, to want to be taken care of. To need softness.”
Her work does not dwell solely in sadness. It is layered with lived experience, growth and reflection. More than anything, she hopes her vulnerability translates into comfort for listeners.
“I just hope I do these stories justice,” she shared. “And I hope that when people listen, they feel a sense of comfort. Like they’re not alone in it.”
That sentiment, of not being alone, echoed through the room as performers stepped up, some with trembling hands, others with quiet confidence. Each voice added to the growing tapestry of stories that Aze’s Room continues to weave.
A hub for doing it scared
While Limerick has no shortage of creative events, many attendees of the night believe Aze’s Room offers something distinct.
“There’s something powerful about watching people step up vulnerably and thinking, ‘Okay, maybe I can do it too.’”
That has been central to Azeezat Muniru’s vision from the very beginning, creating a platform where young people, particularly those who may not always see themselves represented, can take up space unapologetically.
Building something bigger
What started in the Copper Room has now found new life in different venues, each event drawing a loyal and growing crowd. With every instalment, the community strengthens. Growing from charging during the first show to raising funds for the Children’s Grief Centre, and now having free open shows. Aze’s Room is no longer just an event. It is a movement rooted in culture, community, and the courage to be seen.
If Round 3 is anything to go by, Limerick’s creative youth are only getting started.
If you want to be the first to know about upcoming shows, follow Azesroom on Instagram.