Poetry Unplugged- MLK Celebration

Poetry Unplugged- Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration took place Friday January 13, 2016 at 8:00pm at the August Wilson Center.

In celebration of the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. ‘Poetry Unplugged’ was a night that displayed the art of poetry, music, and activism. The performances featured nationally acclaimed poets and lyricists’ hailing from New York, California, Washington DC, and Pittsburgh.

Alyssa Paulina Feist said, “What an amazing experience! Never disappoints! I flew from Louisiana to see this.”

The live show was hosted by Mahogany L. Browne with DJ Jive Poetic. The show featured Prentice Powell, Steven Willis, the Brooklyn 2016 Slam Team, W. Ellington Felton, Roya Marsh, Gabriela Garcia Medina, and DJ Nate the Phat Barber, and Pittsburgh’s own Nate Barber.

“I’m never taking these words, these smiles, this magic for granted. This is what work looks like,” poet Ms. Marsh said.

It was a NYC-style night of greatness, and hundreds gathered all in the name of MLK. People of all different races and colors looking to keep the legacy of Dr. King alive.

W. Ellington Felton said, “Broke down journey the slave trade started. Civil rights movement working their hardest. Colored water fountains to shopping at Target. Crack ain’t kill us. Now the music is the product.” Was a few lines mentioned in his work during the poetry showcase.

“What awesome energy last night cheering on such moving work. These performances were so full of heart, soul, and passion. Loved it,” Sabrina Potter said.

The show was immediately followed by an after-party in the main lobby area of the August Wilson Center. Those who attended are still in awe at how amazing the show was. We want an encore.