​Slam poetry at the Red Raven

By Faye Seidler

fayeseidler@gmail.com

On the first Thursday of every month, Kristen Jewel hosts “Outlet: Spoken Word Poetry” at the Red Raven Espresso Parlor. This event is safe and inclusive of all identities and begins at 7:30pm for signup, with performing starting at 8pm. They typically start with six original works and/or new poets first, then allow anyone who signed up to perform afterwards.

It is important to know that there is no cover charge or drink purchase requirement for this event, but Kristen encourages doing so to support an organization that has so graciously allowed the use of their space and equipment.

I was able to sit down with her and ask a few questions about the event.

High Plains Reader: What is slam poetry for those who don’t know?

Kristen Jewel: Slam poetry is poetry meant for performance. It uses alliteration, metaphor, simile, rhyme, and almost sounds like rap in its rhythmic style. It is emphasized by facial expressions to be humorous or emotional, and the body can be used to further emphasize the words. Competitions are prominent and an outlet for creative expression on political, personal, cultural, and global issues.

HPR: What is your role in slam poetry night?

KJ: I host slam poetry night and line up six poets for each month, as I want to make sure there is a variety of content for those who have become regular viewers. I run the Facebook page and the create the events on Facebook. I also take the sign-ups for open mic, and announce each poet to the stage. I do perform my own work, so I’ve challenged myself to do at least one new poem each month.

HPR: How friendly is this event for first timers?

KJ: This is one of the safest and most supportive outlets for beginners. Most of the people coming either don’t know what slam poetry is, or this is the first time they have found an outlet to perform their work in. We encourage audience participation during poems as long as everyone stays respectful. If someone says something that just catches your soul, you snap along! If they are talking about an issue that is hurtful to society, you can scoff at the absurdity. You can laugh, cheer, and clap. We do not tolerate any disrespect of poets, and we make sure anyone sharing knows that.

HPR: How do people sign up, how long do they get, and is there any limit on subject matter?

KJ: They can either find me at 7:30 p.m. or right after those initial poets speak—at that point I announce on stage that I am available to sign up with. I usually make a round of the room as well, in case anyone is too shy to come up to me. I tell people to do either two or three poems, so that way everyone gets a shot at open mic. If we have extra time, they are more than welcome to come and put their name on the list again. I do not control content, I let people go up with whatever they have.

HPR: What do you personally get out of poetry and what do you see other people getting out of it at this event?

KJ: Personally, I love language. I love it as an art form, and I love hearing the creative ways people find to work it. Performing gives me life! I also love the sense of community. Since we are such an inclusive outlet, everyone is there to support everyone else. There is an understanding that sharing your work is hard and can be terrifying. I see other people getting that sense of community as well. Plus, they have an outlet where they can express emotions and receive validation for what they are feeling. That alone is pretty rare.

HPR: Is there anything you'd like to add about Slam Poetry Night?

KJ: It is a really great event that I encourage everyone to check out! Even if you don’t want to share work or are not a poet yourself, there is no obligation to sign up for open mic. You can just sit back and watch people express themselves rhythmically. A lot of it is funny, a lot of it is sad, and a lot of it is just plain pretty. I’m hoping to start a competition soon, in addition to open-mic nights!

Outlet poetry gives special thanks to Lauren Starling, who helped set the whole thing up. When I told her what I wanted to do, she was fantastic at spreading the word, making sure everyone knew the events were happening. She does free photography to advertise the group and show what we do, and even uses art to make cover photos and logos for us. She is my co-host and a brilliant poet.

[Editor’s note: Faye Seidler is the North Dakota Safe Zone Project Spokeswoman]