Experience a diverse open mic with artists from all backgrounds in a positive and inspiring atmosphere. Peoria’s Open Mic for Poetry is held on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month, hosted by Ryan Lowry with DJ Yvaine Washington.

It is truly astounding what talented locally based poets that one will hear on any given night. Each night the open mic also features a popular regionally known poet. Poets from as far away as Maryland, Missouri and Florida have graced the stage. Regardless of a poet’s level of experience, everyone is welcome to share his or her work. Join us on the 2nd floor, in the Preston Jackson Gallery.

Audiences experience more than just someone reading from a page. Poets often memorize the piece and perform it as in a stage play. These are often soul-baring performances that might make you weep or laugh out loud. One thing is for certain, this is an entertaining and stimulating event.

Featured Poet: Louis Conphliction
Louis Conphliction promotes self-love and self-awareness centered movement, utilizing mentorship, eclectic beats and empowering words. He is the host of Pagedale’s annual Red Ribbon Drug Prevention Program. He also teaches workshops and is a mentor for several organizations, including Poetry for Personal Power, Provident Counseling and The St. Louis Juvenile Detention Center. When he’s not creating change, he’s touring/performing throughout the nation and participating in and winning poetry competitions. He performed at the 2015 Pan African Film Festival in Los Angeles. Louis was named Poet of the Year, by St. Louis Star Awards in 2016. Check out Louis’ video

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