Poetry Slam Celebrates 25 Years with Anniversary Series & Birthday Extravaganza
Poetry Slam, which originated in Chicago, IL and has grown into a worldwide movement, is celebrating its 25th anniversary with a major event at the Metro Cabaret Theater in Chicago on July 30 at 8 p.m. Marc Smith, who founded the Slam, will host.
CHICAGO, IL, June 14, 2011
With poetry slams sparking inspiration and excitement around the globe—from Singapore to Germany to Madagascar—most Chicagoans are proudly aware that this international phenomena began right here in their city. For those who aren't aware, and those who are, Chicago Slam Works is lighting the candles on a Birthday Extravaganza that will burn this blockbuster milestone into all minds and hearts with a blow-out night of poetry performances. The Poetry Slam 25th Birthday Extravaganza will ring, spit, and set Cabaret Metro, 3730 North Clark in Chicago, IL, ablaze on July 30 at 8 p.m. The show features Slam Champions Patricia Smith, Regie O. Gibson, Adam Gottlieb, featured in the documentary film, Louder than a Bomb and a pack of slammers from around the world including Word Alert, an innovative slam team from Frankfort, Germany. The event will also feature the a live slam translation. Hosted by slam originator Marc (So What!) Smith, the night will include music by Cam's Tie and special tribute performances by Chicago's Speak 'Easy Ensemble.Tickets are available through the Metro's box office or
http://www.chicagoslamworks.com.
5 - 7 p.m. Pre-show VIP Reception Package $ 100+
8 p.m. Show Main Floor / General Seating $ 45
Standing Room $ 25
Teaser Salon Reveal Tales at Brunch with Punch
Leading up to the Birthday Extravaganza, Chicago Slam Works is hosting a series of Slam History Salons. Your last chance to kick-back and enjoy this wonderful buffet and great conversation is on Saturday, June 18 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Chopin Theater, 1543 W. Division in Chicago. Historical figures from around the country will talk about their "slam" turningpoints and share their behind-the-scenes tell-tales in front of the cameras and a public audience. A generous brunch will be provided. Each discussion reveals another piece of colorful history behind this literary movement.
Admission: $12. Reservations appreciated, 847-556-8679.
CSW thanks the following sponsors for their support.
The Consulate General of the Federal Republic of Germany, Chicago
Illinois Arts Council, a state agency.
About Chicago Slam Works
Chicago Slam Works (CSW) is rooted in the Poetry Slam movement, which began in Chicago as a highly entertaining, interactive, innovative poetic experience and spread around the world to become a major force in stirring the minds of students, scholars, and everyday people. The founding members of CSW are pillars of the international movement and the organizational force behind dozens of major poetic events in and around Chicago—as well as the world including three National Poetry Slam Championships.