poetrynight (yes, that’s poetrynight) is an organization here in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Washington, which conducts an open microphone event each and every Monday night.
Local poets and musicians perform their pieces. A featured poet – usually from elsewhere (for example, New York City and San Francisco) performs a longer set of poems.
To me it is astonishing to have an event like this here weekly!
What makes it even better is that these open mic events are recorded!
Here is the link to the podcasts:
http://feeds2.feedburner.com/poetrynight/bSzp
On August 23, 2010, the featured poet was Kim Johnson in her second appearance at poetrynight. She is a very talented poet and performer; I loved the word play sprinkled throughout her poems. Listen for “quick sand boxes” and “dandelion roars.”
At the end of the evening, musician and poet C.R. Avery performed. He played a harmonica-poem by Lead Belly, a piano piece, and a prose poem. Astonishing!!
Next week Buddy Wakefield will perform. The crowd roared each time his name was mentioned. If you can’t make it, watch for his performance on the podcast!
Full disclosure: I read my poems occasionally at poetrynight. On August 2, 2010, I read “Wild Geese” by Mary Oliver and my poem “Eagles.” Last night I read my poem “Glass Floats.”
Finally, I love the fact that poetrynight is an all ages venue and that it is inclusive. The performers and audience members represent a cross section of America. The events are energized, and I believe that it is largely due to the energy the younger poets and performers bring to the microphone.
Please support poets and poetry where YOU live.
Andrew Shattuck McBride, Writer's Blog 