Looking for a good reason to snap your fingers this weekend? Head downtown to The Fenario Gallery, where the best of the Eugene beat poets will strut their stuff, battling vocally (but amiably) for an audience and a judge-determined win.
The National Poetry Slam competition started in the 1980s in Chicago and spread to the corners of nation, infiltrating Eugene on its way. This Saturday, the Poetry Slam finals for the Eugene area will determine who moves on to the regional and national competitions.
“There’s a high level of exciting tension throughout the night. You can always be involved; it’s not like going to a poetry meeting where everyone’s quiet,” said event hostess Jorah LaFleur. “It’s exciting and rowdy, and everybody’s voice is encouraged.”
The event will kick off with nationally-recognized poet and musician Blair, a Def Poetry Jam Featured Poet and award-winning folk artist from Detroit. His slam poetry experience and musical tendencies should make for an engaging speech, LaFleur said.
Along with listening, audience members are encouraged to shout, voice their opinions and participate with judging. An open mic session will precede the competition, and those who want to participate are encouraged to arrive early.
“This event gives people a forum for expressing themselves. It’s a really courageous thing to do,” LaFleur said. “You get so much support and so much love; if you enjoy poetry or enjoy writing at all… I encourage everyone to come.”
LaFleur described the slam as a combination sports/concert/poetry event, full of energy and expression. Bongo drums, black hats and artistic attitude are not required. Be ready to shout.
Poetry Slam gives voice to competitive poets
Daily Emerald
April 25, 2007
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