An afternoon of live music and readings inspired by motherhood—open to everyone. Co-hosted by Australian songwriter Sarah Irvine in partnership with The New Mothers’ Writing Circle, this afternoon performance brings together live music and intimate readings exploring the raw, shifting terrain of early motherhood.

Alumni of The New Mothers’ Writing Circle, founded and directed by award-winning writer & creative producer Catrin Kemp, will share excerpts from their writing — honest, finely observed reflections on birth, identity, love, loss, and the quiet transformations that shape the earliest days of parenthood. Their words unfold alongside new music from Australian-born, Edinburgh-based musician Sarah Irvine, who will perform selections from her forthcoming 2026 release, supported by Creative Scotland. Written in the tender intervals of raising her two-year-old, Irvine’s songs offer a deeply personal, lyrical counterpoint to the readings — inviting audiences of all backgrounds into a universal story of change, vulnerability and becoming.

This event is LGBTQIA+ inclusive and welcomes anyone curious about the creative and emotional landscape of early parenthood. Though not specifically designed for children, babies and young children are warmly welcome, and the environment will be gentle in volume to ensure comfort for little ears.

If you would like to read a short piece of prose or a poem at this event, please contact Catrin directly: newmumswriting@gmail.com by 18th January 2026. (You will still need to buy a ticket, unless the cost of the ticket will be a barrier to you attending).

EVENT Information

Doors Open at 1:45pm for a 2pm performance start.

There will be around 40 minutes of readings and 40 minutes of music.

There will be both seated and floor space available for flexibility and ease.

Please purchase a child ticket if your child will need a seat of their own.

Space for buggies is very limited. If you’re able to attend without one, it would be greatly appreciated.

Accessibility

The Glad Cafe is an accessible and family friendly space. Baby changing facilities are available in the accessible toilet. Breastfeeding is welcome here. Children under 12 must be supervised at all times.

Travel by Bike

There is limited space to park your own bike in the venue and nextbike bike hire bays on Kilmarnock Road.

Travel by Rail

Our closest train station is Crossmyloof Station (0.3miles distance).

Travel by Bus

First Bus run services to Pollokshaws Road, directly outside the Glad Cafe: 3, 4, 29, 38, 57, 103.

Travel by Taxi

Taxi’s are able to pick-up/drop off directly outside the Glad Cafe. The nearest taxi rank is across the road outside the Langside Halls (0.1 miles distance).

Parking for Disabled Badge Holders

There are single yellow lines and some pay and display parking bays located outside the Glad Cafe.