Charity Poetry or Humanitarian Spectacle? Academic Matija Bećković and Zvezdara Theatre have once again proven that words are not just for decoration – they can also feed the hungry! At the 28th traditional charity evening “Evening with Matija,” held late last year, all proceeds from ticket sales were donated to the public kitchens in Kosovo and Metohija. Yes, you read that right – poetry fed the hungry!
The handover of the proceeds took place at the Zvezdara Theatre, with Bećković joined by well-known writers and cultural figures such as Dušan Kovačević and Svetlana Stević, the manager of the public kitchens “Mother of Nine Jugović.” This humanitarian mission has been ongoing for 24 years, providing daily assistance to the most vulnerable in Kosovo and Metohija.
Bećković emphasized that the money raised at this event is not a large sum, but it comes from the hearts of poetry lovers who are willing to give more than the ticket price. “This envelope in my hands contains more love than money,” said the academic, highlighting the importance of public recognition of humanitarian work.
The public kitchens in Kosovo and Metohija have been feeding people for 24 years, and thanks to such actions, their mission continues. Svetlana Stević pointed out that although there are no major improvements in conditions for Serbs in Kosovo, the community continues to fight and help each other, united around the church and the Raška-Prizren Eparchy.
Writer and journalist Živojin Rakočević thanked Bećković and Zvezdara Theatre, emphasizing that their words and deeds bring hope and food to the most vulnerable. “As Matija says in his verses, his word revives and feeds those who need it most,” said Rakočević.
This traditional evening is not just a cultural event but a powerful humanitarian act showing that art can have a strong social role. If you find poetry boring, maybe it’s time to look at it from a different angle – as a tool for change and help to those in need.
And you? Have you ever thought that poetry could feed the hungry? Or is it just another reason to smile and say, “Well, I didn’t know verses could be a plate too!” Feel free to drop a comment, maybe together we’ll discover a new power of art!
