They speak loudly. They can sing. They have soul. With a heart of passion and an intimidating presence, slam poets talk fast so you better listen hard. And when they pause for words in between, you better take a breath before their next spoken word rhythm. So leave your bongos at home and prepare to free your mind.

What is slam poetry? It’s a spoken word performance. It’s hip-hop without the deep, deaf bass (sometimes). To me it is art with a voice and attitude. Slam poets share their hopes and dreams with the audience. They can challenge you to think in a different way. A few can even make you laugh or haunt you with a thought. But most of all, they create a community of words that are fresh and revolutionary. In this time, it’s refreshing to experience this type of courageous act.

If you want to experience slam poetry live, check out the FREE event, Children of Slam: L.A. Poets Talk Hard presented by KCET.org/webstories. MC Ratpack Slim will introduce performances by Steve Connell, Gina Loring, Sekou (tha misfit), Mayda Del Valle, and Shihan.

Tuesday - May 8, 2007 

9:00pm - FREE (limited capacity)

Da Poetry Lounge/Greenway Court Theatre

544 N. Fairfax Avenue, Los Angeles

For more information go to kcet.org/slam or call (323) 655-7679.