Poetry Is Alive And Well In Rockford, IL

July 8th, 2009 at 04:50pm Christopher D. Sims

Poetry in Rockford is alive and well contrary to popular belief. With arecent renaissance coming to end, a new one is taking place in theRockford area.Since I returned home, I realized there was not much happening inRockford regarding poetry and spoken word. I had been living in Philadelphia, PAbefore I returned to the Rockford area arts scene. Philadelphia is a placethriving with culture and art. I had gotten used to seeing readingsand all kinds of arts events listed in Philly’s local papers. Although theObama work I was doing kept me too busy there, I enjoyed living ina city where poetry and spoken word were always being showcased.So, I came back home and wanted the same thing happening here inRockford.I had to take the initiative of getting two open mike venues going forpoetry and spoken word.Every Wednesday I host Poetry For The Soul. With a DJ who playscontemporary music, I share the mike with some of Rockford’s up andcoming poets and spoken word artists. Justin Saichek is one of Rockford’sbest and up and coming poetry talents. Visit us at Bar 3 at 326 E. StateSt. every Wednesday night at 9 PM to hear Justin, myself, and good music.At Katie’s Cup, Rockford’s best kept secret when it comes to cafes, Ihost Free Your Voice. An open mike for poetry, spoken word, musicians,and community discussion. You’ll hear me sharing my own work and askingcommunity-related questions. We have a good time and its an all agesaffair. Come to Katie’s Cup for Free Your Voice every other Thursday at7 PM. Poets, musicians and all are welcome!Free Your Voice is this Thursday.Yes, poetry is alive and well in Rockford. To learn more or get involvedfeel free to reach me at universoulove@hotmail.com.

Entry Filed under: Performing Arts, Local Artists, Arts Advocacy, Literary Arts