FreeVerse!

New Pictures

2011-09-08T13:11:00.000-04:00

Check out our pictures from previous event,
Many more to be uploaded. We will keep you updated :)

>>>View Pictures of Past Events

Al Fresco Friday | FreeVerse! @ Persona

2011-08-23T12:25:00.002-04:00

RSVP

TRM Shares Their Space and Kind Words

2011-08-02T20:51:00.006-04:00

An article written by Sopheak Sam, Communications Coordinator of The Revolving Museum.

"This year’s LYST (Lowell Youth Slam Team) bellowed raw stories - quirky, unrestrained, vulnerable, and full of honesty. Some newly-written and some of their best. Many teenage confessions that hold an emotional volume many of us may relate regardless of our years."

>>>View Full Story

Photo taken by Sopheak Sam Copyright // Sopheak Sam © Copyright // FreeVerse! ©

REFLECTION ON BRAVE NEW VOICES | SARA

2011-07-29T23:18:00.011-04:00

"I was forced to break out of my comfort zone and trust myself and my potential, constantly being reminded that I was worth investing in, this was always my backbone."

DANG. I really don't know where to start in regards to this BNV San Francisco trip. I guess we have to start at the heart of the home which is our family. I am so grateful for everything that our family has done for each other. We have all grown so beautifully together and this whole entire year has been a blessing. Each show, poem, laugh, and hug has been for a purpose and each of these bonds have brought our family so incredibly close, and our journey that much more intricate. It is sort of unbelievable how perfect our family has been this year.

Throughout this school year I was challenged as a person in ways that would only help me grow. I was forced to break out of my comfort zone and trust myself and my potential, constantly being reminded that I was worth investing in, this was always my backbone. I was also challenged to trust people that I knew nothing of, but after being trusted by strangers its hard not to open up. I quickly found myself not being able to hold back my own story and even though I am still not fully okay with exposing myself I am becoming more comfortable with letting people into my life, even if they are capable of leaving at any given moment. "Healing is a process" and poetry is its partner. I've learned that it is okay to write for yourself and that it is also okay to share what you have written. This means not apologizing and making excuses for what you have written, but knowing that you wrote and there are always people to listen and meet you where you are at.

San Francisco was surreal. We didn't do too hot in the competition, but somehow we still made our way to final stage. And somehow on our way there we were recognized by our fellow poets. I've always thought I was easily forgettable, but being part of a team that was approached and wanted to be heard from was slightly unrealistic. It still is.

This whole year with my family has made me into the young woman I am today, San Francisco was simply the "icing on the cake,"

I want to shout out a special, most sincere thanks to my coaches, who have always been there and will always be there; you guys are all anyone could ever ask for. And another thanks to my team who was always able to meet me where I was at, not judging, not disregarding what I say, but simply loving on me. And a thank you to all the people that helped us get to San Francisco and encouraged me throughout the year with my poetry. You were all a crucial part in making this whole experience happen. God Bless <3

-Sara Morency

Photography © FreeVerse!

Reflection On Brave New Voices | Princess

2011-07-28T16:49:00.005-04:00

"Sharing laughter, nostalgia, and butterflies. My team will always be my team. We will forever be a family."

It's been a few days since BNV, but the experience still lingers upon me. I miss it. I hopped on the plane not exactly knowing what I was doing, who I would meet, why me of all people. This unknown mystery made the trip all that more amazing. I didn't expect to be surrounded by overwhelming waves of love. Poets, the best people I know. This trip became a mental and spiritual trip for me. Everyday, I slowly pieced together the puzzle pieces of my lost identity. Found fire in the hearts of my teammates, a fire that cannot be put out by tears, because the saltine drips soaked into our roots.

I became a firm believer that everything happens for a reason. The proof was on the faces of my team, my family. I was meant to be in a dorm room with Suty, with Emma, with Sara, with Joey, with Febo, with Ricky, with Masada (barely there but there as a bear). Sharing laughter, nostalgia, and butterflies. My team will always be my team. We will forever be a family. We will forever affect the definition of awkward.

I can't believe just a few days ago, we were on the final stage making people laugh. We really changed the term awkward, and make it semi cool in a way, I guess, since friend requests keep rolling in and other poets constantly remind me how much they appreciate our poem. I can never forget this trip. I am so blessed that everything happened. I will never forget.

-Princess Chan

Photograph .

Al Fresco | Open Mic Hosted by FreeVerse!

2011-07-27T15:01:00.003-04:00

RSVP

FACES OF LOWELL | YOUTH SPEAKS POSTER

2011-07-26T21:38:00.005-04:00

facebook/ Youth Speaks - Brave New Voices

website/ youthspeaks.org

(Left: Princess Chan, right: Ricky Orng)

BNV | LOWELL ON FINAL STAGE

2011-07-25T17:49:00.002-04:00

(From left to right: Princess Chan, Emma Beauchamp, Sara Morency, Suty Komsonkeo)

Photo taken by Daniel Schaefer

SEND OFF -to- SAN FRAN

2011-07-17T04:37:00.000-04:00

Tonight's Show

2011-07-14T16:02:00.002-04:00

TONIGHT is the FreeVerse Fundraiser at The Village Smokehouse! Come support the youth of Lowell as they try to get themselves out to California for the Brave New Voices competition. If you come to the show you are surely in for a night of great local music and poetry. Not to mention the Smokehouse's delicious food and drink!

There will be musical performances from Beneath The Sheets, Hetfield & Hetfield, Jasper Som and special guest Poet D-TENSION.

There will also be poetry sets from FreeVerse coaches Masada Jones, Joey Banh and Ricky Orng!

The show is going to kick off at 8pm and it is only $5 to get in. The lounge where the show is is 21+ but the restaurant is all ages in case you would like to come and show your support, grab a bite to eat and make a donation.

So even if you can just stop by for a few minutes, make sure to come out and show your support for the kids in FreeVerse tonight. It's going to be a lot of fun.

Feel free to message me if you have any questions. Thank you and see you tonight!
-Tom Southerton

FreeVerse! Fundraiser Concert

2011-07-12T23:37:00.001-04:00

FreeVerse Fundraiser: Beneath The Sheets, Hetfield & Hetfield and more!

@ the Village Smokehouse

7:30 pm July 14th

RSVP

COME DOWN TO THE SWAG SWAP

2011-07-03T14:07:00.001-04:00

SWAG SWAP // DAY1 :)

2011-07-02T21:31:00.000-04:00

Sneak Peek of the SWAG SWAP

2011-07-02T02:13:00.004-04:00

Today @ U.T.E.C. (United Teen Equality Center)

34 Hurd St, Lowell MA

Saturday & Sunday (Noon 'til the "After Party")

RSVP

Lowell Al Fresco

2011-07-01T08:30:00.002-04:00

THANKS to everyone who came out to Brew'd Awakening Coffeehaus last night. It was a great turnout from both poets and attendees in general. FreeVerse! is extremely proud of the FreeVerse! Youth Poetry Slam Team for doing a phenomenal job as the feature. CATCH US AGAIN @ Brew'd for Lowell Al Fresco. 5-7pm

2011-06-29T21:59:00.003-04:00

if you would like to donate to FreeVerse!
you can email us at: freeverseword@gmail.com

Can't make a monetary donation?
feel free to donate any used, old, new clothes.

We Got the Power!

2011-06-25T10:42:00.002-04:00

We Got the Power!

2011-06-25T10:42:00.000-04:00

Sponsor A Poet

2011-06-21T17:32:00.000-04:00

Dear Friends of FreeVerse!,

Four young poets from Lowell need your help to make it to San Francisco for the annual spoken word and slam festival, Brave New Voices.

As you may know, we here at FreeVerse! are committed to attending Brave New Voices to bring attention to Lowell – and bring our youth poets to new cities. We want people to hear Lowell’s young people and know that we are dedicated to our craft. The FreeVerse! Slam team practices, and commits a lot of time focusing on mastering their material.

Brave New Voices is being held in San Francisco this July, and FreeVerse! has been invited to attend again. Our slam team consists of four youth poets – you can read about them on the next page and hear FreeVerse! pieces online at http://freeverseword.blogspot.com/.

Emma Beauchamp
Princess Chan
Suty Komsonkeo
Sara Morency

We need your help to raise $3,750 by July 1st. For each poet to attend the festival in San Francisco, it costs $940 per poet to provide their food, lodging, plane ticket, and registration. Help us get four of Lowell’s young poets to be a part of this mind blowing, life changing festival. Any amount that you can donate is helpful.

$20____ $50____ $100____ $200____ $500____ $940_____ Other Amount:______

(Please make checks payable to United Teen Equality Center and put FreeVerse! in the memo section.)

Thank you for supporting Lowell’s youth poets through FreeVerse!

Masada Jones Anthony Febo Joseph Banh Ricky Orng

FreeVerse!'s mission is to introduce and nurture the culture of spoken word poetry
in partnership with youth in the city of Lowell. We work with community agencies
and organizations to broaden this culture and expand.

FreeVerse! is in partnership with the United Teen Equality Center.

Baked love, courtesy of FreeVerse!

2011-06-08T10:58:00.004-04:00

Shout out to our friend

Sam Pauo aka: Dynamix

for making this dope video!

Thaks to all of those who showed up and supported in the buying of the goods. Your donations and postitive energy help make the bake sale a success :)

here is the video..

Sponsor a Poet

2011-05-25T18:14:00.002-04:00

Sponsor a Poet

:)

FreeVerse! @ Express Yourself Fashion Show

2011-05-25T10:55:00.001-04:00

FreeVerse! @ Express Yourself Fashion Show

from top to bottom: Joey, Febo, and Ricky

photos taken by

Roberta Delilo & Daniel Balbony

Poetry + Fashion

2011-05-21T09:02:00.001-04:00

Express Yourself Fashion Show

@ Lawrence High School

RSVP

FreeVerse! will be one of the several performance at this event tonight!

Hope to see you there.

FV! BAKE SALE

2011-05-21T08:38:00.001-04:00

FV! BAKE SALE

@ 144 Merrimack St. Lowell MA

THANK YOU!

Thanks for stopping by on that cold, wet day to get yourself a nice, warm treat and talking to us.

It was greatly appreciated, and FreeVerse! did well with all of your support. Also BIG THANKS to those who donated and baked some treats for us and helped spread the word. There will be more fundraisers/events soon!

View More Photos

If you are interested in making a donation or contributing to FreeVerse! email us at freeverseword@gmail.com

Good Quote!

2011-04-28T12:16:00.000-04:00

"Most men lead lives of quiet desperation and go to the grave with the song still in them."

Henry David Thoreau

Come to FreeVerse! there is no quiet desperation with us!

Denim Day is here!

2011-04-28T12:09:00.000-04:00

I hope you all are wearing your jeans today. I am!!!

Venus Fly Trap - Karen Finneyfrock

2011-04-26T08:54:00.000-04:00

Venus Fly Trap
-Karen Finneyfrock

You told me a relationship could cure
your loneliness. We wouldn't last through
the winter. My chest was a medicine cabinet, you had insomnia, so you ate my liver.
this is how I helped you sleep.

Due to the incision, I leave drops of blood behind me
like bread crumbs. This is how you can find me again.

My body is a clock ticking in the belly of an alligator.
Your body is a sugar cube on a racehorse's tongue.
This is how our sexes love each other.

My body is a snapdragon, a Venus
fly trap, I cant help it.

Your body is an arrow out of the quiver. My body, a bow.

If your body is a boat, and I the lake, or fish swimming
there? I look up at your wooden, salt-bleached self.
I push my fin, my waves, whatever moves me. This is how
I help you go.

**This is such a good poem. Read her other stuff. Be amazed!

Denim Day

2011-04-22T14:48:00.000-04:00

Denim Day Boston 2011 is Thursday April 28th

What is Denim Day?

Denim Day is an anti-rape, anti-violence, anti-victim blaming campaign, using denim jeans as a creative tool to fight against rape and violence in our communities and our world. It's a time to remember that all people have the right to live life without sexual violence, without domestic violence, and without the fear of either, that we all have the ability to fight for that right.

Wear jeans in solidarity with us this Thursday.

for more info. check out Asian Task Force: atask.org or email: denimday@atask.org

Anis Mojgani is the truth

2011-04-22T10:28:00.000-04:00

Check out Anis' website: thepianofarm.com

Work from The Feather Room II.

This town

all the grasses in this town leap

all the birds sing in Inuit accents

the trees dress themselves up like castles

on Halloween the cars all pretend to be horses

and all the ghosts dress like generals

feathers in their hats

swords to the sky

the one rides the other all night long

they bark at the loud planets

and carry torches in their hands

everyone gets a good scare

but we all laugh because it is a good scare

and know that the next day

the ghosts will be in the buttresses of the trees

hanging there

asleep

their sheets blowing in the early morning like toilet paper

thrown by children drunk on time

their bodies like a party all fallen asleep

their feathery hats laying in the grass

like a slipper of champagne filled with dew

Write a poem using the title "love poem Number 137"

2011-04-22T09:49:00.000-04:00

Here is an example for this prompt:

Wont write you a love poem
my hand is weary
cant tell if your heart is hidden in this paper
if one day you are reading this can you promise to write me something back
something that will prove to me that our love was more than underneath bleachers and backseat
often find myself thinking about if your shoulders are still a good resting place
do your eyes still marvel at the ocean
will not turn this into a love poem
wont let my pen betray my mind
there are too many battles thoughts of you arise
there is no neutrality or allies with you
our touching was always good because of this
so much emotion and passion
does your lip still curl when you are hiding your words away
is your smile still honeysuckle pleasant in spring
i miss you
wont turn this into a love poem
but i guess anything concerning you and I is

This week writing workshop

2011-04-22T09:41:00.000-04:00

Moodcheck question: What will you be like when you are 75?

Icebreaker: Baby, if you love me, wont you please smile? (this was so much fun)

Writing warm-up: Write a poem using the title "love poem Number 137"

Writing Prompt: " When we speak we are afraid our words will not be heard or welcomed. But when we are silent, we are still afraid. So it is better to speak" - Audre Lorde

Write a poem about what this quote means to you? Have you ever remained silent and then later wished that you had spoken up?

Love it!

2011-04-21T13:28:00.002-04:00

Every time I say something they find hard to hear, they chalk it up to my anger, and never to their own fear.

-Ani DiFranco

Take Back The Night

2011-04-21T13:25:00.002-04:00

Today is Take Back the Night here in Lowell. Please come show support and stand in solidarity with us.
Meet us at City Hall 6pm

“Domestic violence causes far more pain than the visible marks of bruises and scars. It is devastating to be abused by someone that you love and think loves you in return. It is estimated that approximately 3 million incidents of domestic violence are reported each year in the United States.”

– Dianne Feinstein

Take Back The Night

2011-04-19T16:35:00.000-04:00

Take Back The Night is this Thursday and some of our staff and youth will be performing. I hope to see you all there!

Saw this quote and thought I'd share :)

2011-04-19T16:20:00.000-04:00

“Poetry shows that someone was there before you—lonely, brutalized, aware…and that someone has survived with some passion, some compassion, some humor and some style.”

—Maya Angelou

This Weeks Writing Prompt

2011-04-08T09:44:00.002-04:00

Write a "how to" poem...ex. how to make a boy love you, how to be a senior, how to break my heart

Writing example:

How to Survive a Middle School After School Program

just say yes to everything

it's easier that way

do not tell them that they are far too young to do anything

they are eager to kiss and hold hands

their mouths are hungry for lips and snack time

please dont ever take away their cellphones

oh yes they all have cellphones

if you mention it finding home in your pockets until their parents come

their eyes are daggers

your skin does not want to feel

they are bullies in solidarity

once enemies turned community

when one is in trouble

watching them interact

is sociology in motion

tell them pieces of yourself one bit at a time

there is soil in their minds awaiting seeds

no matter how difficult they are or how tough they are on the exterior

they look up to you

i see it daily in the way they greet me

they teach me something new about myself all the time

im a lot more patient than i thought

last weeks writing prompt

2011-03-28T11:39:00.002-04:00

Prompt: Without using the names of colors describe a tree. Example: It is the color of all things bearen burnt looking it hasnt housed autumn in years it is dead do not find beauty in this tree its twig once harbored hope it is now sterile no babies first cry come spring time no fall leaves plummeting to their wintery deaths so full of life it was now it is all broken down dream no inspiration to be found in dreary shades of disaster

"Word of Mouth" Pictures

2011-03-20T19:15:00.000-04:00

FreeVerse! Presents

"Word of Mouth"

Youth Poetry Slam

View More Photos

Tomorrow it is Folks

2011-03-17T09:20:00.002-04:00

I cannot wait to see you all here! You sure wont want to miss this!

Slammmmmmin'!!!!!!

2011-03-10T08:40:00.003-05:00

Ask yourself a question, what can i do to better the quality of my life?

INSTANT ANSWER! Come to this show, witness some dope poetry, meet a lot of amazing individuals and enjoy a night that you will remember FOREVER!

SLAM coming up real soon

2011-03-04T13:55:00.003-05:00

We will be having our annual youth slam to make the FreeVerse! slam team. There is a dope new group of young people. You do not want to miss seeing them spit. Stay tuned for more details!

2010-12-01T11:38:00.001-05:00

Hey friends if you haven't already like us on facebook!

T.O.D.A.Y.

2010-12-01T11:19:00.000-05:00

We have a new set a young people ready to shed some light! Come on out and support!

HEY

2010-10-18T12:14:00.000-04:00

FreeVerse! has started up workshops are they have been great! We performed at the Boston Book Festival and attended Night Kite Revival Tour at BU! The tour featured Derrick Brown, Buddy Wakefield, and Anis Mojgani. AMAZING! If ever they are in town again. We urge you all to go see them.

You could also always see FreeVerse! at:

Brew'd Awakening Coffeehaus (they're on facebook too)
1st and 3rd Thursday of every month (open mic) 630-9

UTEC (34 Hurd St.)
Every Monday and Wednesday from 3-6 (writing and performance workshops)

blessings to all!

FreeVerse! getting ready

2010-09-01T11:18:00.000-04:00

School is starting, the leaves are getting ready to fall, (okay...not really we are currently in a heatwave) and FreeVerse! is planning our curriculum. We will be up and at 'em before ya know it!

2010-08-30T11:53:00.000-04:00

Hey Friends!

FreeVerse! is getting back on our feet after such an eventful summer. What event would you all like to see FreeVerse! do? What would you like to come too?

HERRO!

2010-08-26T12:00:00.000-04:00

Herro to all,

Joey B here

It has been a while hasn't it?

Well the team is back and the coaches are back

and its time to get things going.

FreeVerse! is in full effect Ppls

A Poem coming to you soon be on the look out!

2010-08-13T11:34:00.000-04:00

Hello Friends!

FreeVerse! will be back up in running in a few. Right after the youth team got back from LA the adult team left for St. Paul, MN. Febo and I are both on the adult team. We need to take a breather. Look here and facebook for upcoming events and workshops. :)

More chances to help!!

2010-07-15T22:49:00.000-04:00

our continuing efforts to reach our financial goals of purchasing 4 plane tickets to LA.. we have more opportunities for you to help us..

Friday July 16th in Sophy's back yard at 63 pine street in Lowell we are having a cook out from 5pm-till when they kick us out... admission is $5 and we will be selling Tees, Books, and CD's. Expect food.. live performances.. breakdancing.. raffles.. food.. and a good time..

Saturday July 17th at the Eggroll Cafe on 110 university ave in Lowell from 6-8 we are having another event which will be sure to blow your mind. admission is also $5 and we will also be selling tees, books, and cds.

come fri or sat or even both!! just come.. and if you cannot for what ever reason.. see the post below to donate if you feel it in your heart..

hope to see you soon

Donations

2010-07-12T13:43:00.000-04:00

Hey guys.. help us out..

Here is the link to donate :-(help)

When donating please plug in FreeVerse! in the designation area.

2010-07-09T08:35:00.000-04:00

Sent by: The Revolving Museum
Reply to the sender

The 2010 Lowell Youth Slam Team

FreeVerse!, at The Revolving Museum, engages youth ages 13-19 years old, in the art of spoken word and poetry. Students beging by conversing with mentors about their lives, their concerns and social issues. Then they are coached in writing, editing, recitation & public speaking, critique, theatrical techniques and performance. Those that choose to then compete in poetry "slams". This year four participants in the program qualified to represent the 2010 Lowell Youth Slam Team at the national competition, Brave New Voices. This is an appeal to help us send them to Los Angeles to represent Lowell.

The Brave New Voices Festival - 13th Annual International Youth Poetry Slam Festival
Convening the top young poets and spoken word artists, aged 13-19, from across the United States and beyond, Brave New Voices is a one-of-a-kind festival that truly engages everyone involved. This year, the six-day festival will be held in Los Angeles. To meet the challenge of helping teens find their voice, Youth Speaks empowers young people to become the next generation of thinkers, writers, and leaders. "we give youth the chance to stand up, speak, and be heard." http://www.bravenewvoices.org/

On March 26, 2010, competition finals were held to qualify a team to represent Lowell. They are Ricky Orng, Sophy Sam, Ben Militello, and Emma Beauchamp. Most recently they performed at the Mill City Slam held at Brew'd Awakenings in downtown Lowell (pictured here.)

The 2010 Lowell Youth Slam Team with FreeVerse! Co-founder and coach Anthony Febo, at left, performing at the Brew'd Awakening Open Mic and Slam.

Sophy Sam reading from Words for Your Pocket at the Brew'd Awakenings/Mill City Slam.

A collection of the FreeVerse! team's poems is now published in a chapbook entitled Words for Your Pocket, from Sargent Press.

We have also launched a FreeVerse! video channel on YouTube. The first set of eight videos highlight the winning performances at the qualifying competition. http://www.youtube/freeverseword/

Fundraiser

FreeVerse! T-Shirts, chapbooks, and CDs will be on sale this Saturday and shortly online.

Here's where you can help. FreeVerse! is holding a BIG fundraiser this week.

They will perform this Saturday, July 10, 2PM, at Harmony Park (the link goes to the Friends of Harmony Park Facebook Group). As you may know, the Revolving Museum has completed a two year adoption period of the park bringing sculpture, mosaics, plantings and performance. We are delighted that FreeVerse! will kick off the first summertime performance of the year. You can let us know if you can attend on the event page in Facebook "Lowell Youth Slam Team BIG fundraiser at Harmony Park."

Perhaps you might like to volunteer to help at the event. If so please contact FreeVerse! co-founder and coach masada.jones@gmail.com.

Would you consider making a donation? We are raising funds to subsidize the team's travel expenses to the Brave New Voices event in Los Angeles. Please donate now on our secure Network for Good site. Enter FreeVerse! in the designation box.

FreeVerse! Co-Founders Masada Jones, Joey Banh, and Anthony Febo.

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FreeVerse! Fundraiser

2010-07-07T22:48:00.000-04:00

Hello All

The Lowell Youth Slam Team, which is a part of FreeVerse, is participating in Brave New Voices http://www.bravenewvoices.org/. Please help Lowell be a part of this amazing event. Support us!

Date: Saturday, July 10, 2010
Time: 2:00pm - 5:00pm
Location: Harmony Park
Street: 20 Cross St
City/Town: Lowell, MA

Below is the facebook event:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/FreeVerse/142268376308?ref=ts#!/event.php?eid=137080302977970&ref=mf

PROMPT

2010-04-28T16:49:00.000-04:00

So here at FreeVerse! the slam team is writing to this prompt:

Cinderella is a traditional fairy tale that has a happy ending. Happy endings are not very realistic. We are going to rewrite the ending of Cinderella. What would've happened if the shoe fit one of the ugly step sisters? How does the prince and Cinderella deal with this? Completely switch it up! Happy writing!

Feel free to post your writings here!

blessings!

Joeys poetry on the fly

2010-04-15T03:30:00.001-04:00

Leave the door open I'll be back home she prayer smoked whispered to me. I can only believe it's true. That's why i'm back on my knees with hands folded together saying an atheis' prayer

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Location:In bed

Joeys poetry on the fly

2010-04-10T15:17:00.001-04:00

It's like magic the way I feel. The cool breeze like smoke and the sun shines mirrors of light, the illusion here is a smile with broken wishes in the corners......

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Location:Burlington

Lowell Youth Slam Team

2010-04-06T20:56:00.000-04:00

Hello World

I know the question that has been on everyone's mind. Who made the youth slam team.

Well the wait is over!

FreeVerse! presents Lowell's Youth Slam Team:
Abby
Ben
Emma
Ricky
Sophy

Please be sure to give them support and love. All of the FreeVerse! youth work very hard, and we are all proud of them. Without our youth FreeVerse! would still be a dream.

Thanks for reading.
BLESSINGS!

Poetry on the fly by Joey

2010-04-05T14:08:00.000-04:00

"the sign on i81 north says shoulders for emergency only, ride me poem I think I've got the blues" ~Nikki Giovanni~

Location:University Ave,Lowell,United States

S.L.A.M.

2010-03-15T23:29:00.000-04:00

at the end of this month.. the 26th to be more precise.. we will be holding one of our biggest events all year.. the slam to make the 2010 Lowell Youth Slam Team..

FreeVerse! proudly presents S.L.A.M. Sonnets Lighting A Match

there will be a showcase of sonnets written in the voice of animal crackers..
thats right..

animal crackers..

after the showcase will be a short feature from some of the instructors and judges..

and then...

THE SLAM TO MAKE THE 2010 LOWELL YOUTH SLAM TEAM!!!!

this summer we will be headed off to the Brave New Voices Festival held this year in Los Angeles..

for any good slam we need a good audience.. so thats where you come in.. join us and help support Lowell's youth..

Free 17 and under
$3 for 18+

we will be selling FreeVerse! shirts and accepting donations to help make this trip to LA possible..

Date:	Friday, March 26, 2010
Time:	6:00pm - 8:00pm
Location:	Inn Conference Center (ICC, where the Double Tree used to be)
Street:	50 Warren St
City/Town:	Lowell, MA

Price: Free 17 and under $3 for 18+

P.O.E.T.

2010-02-24T19:10:00.000-05:00

So it only took me an eternity to upload the P.O.E.T. event pictures but here they are check them out... http://www.facebook.com/photos.php?id=142268376308#!/album.php?aid=150734&id=142268376308

so its been a while

2010-02-22T22:00:00.000-05:00

Thought I would just stop by and say Hello to all...I have not dropped by in a while so...HELLO!!

No Workshop Today 2/10

2010-02-10T13:25:00.000-05:00

well if you look out side.. you know why..

See you next week!!

No Workshop Next Monday

2010-01-14T02:09:00.000-05:00

my beloved friends.. next Monday.. which is the 18th of January.. is Martin Luther King day.. so enjoy the hard work this man has done.. and take this day to read on of his speeches or his Letters to Birmingham..

but there will be no FreeVerse! on this day.. see you Wednesday the 20th

HI!!!!

2010-01-12T12:34:00.001-05:00

Hey there World. This is Joey B. just updating yall on just a few things. FreeVerse! @ the Primal Spirit event was definitely a fun time. The crowd was great and the response was amazing. The teens did an awesome job. Susan opened it up and left us awe struck. Emma amazed us by memorizing a very social conscious piece. Last but definitely not least was Ricky who kept us rolling on the ground laughing with his Haiku hits. Great job guys. Yours truly joined in with the drum circle as Febo sang in Masada's face. It was a fun time. Peace and Love yall.

La La La La La La La La La Emma's World

2010-01-11T18:57:00.000-05:00

The original photo above was taken from wikivisual.com and then was edited. There is no such show as Emma's World, unfortunately television advocates have not realized the genius of this show idea yet. That is all.

this a test

2010-01-11T12:57:00.001-05:00

TESTING TESTING

2010-01-09T02:51:00.000-05:00

Hello Friends!!!!!!

I know this is very late notice.. but guess what..

I forgot how to post

I know I know.. silly me.. but as you can see I learned..

now on Saturday the 9th of January 2010 there is this event called

Primal Spirit

that not only I believe you should attend.. but also FreeVerse! will be there performing so that's even more reason for you to be there.. here is alittle info on the event..

On Saturday, January 9, 2010 from 7-10 p.m., The Revolving Museum presents Primal Spirit, a celebration of ancient art, music, and language. This exhibit is a culmination of work by students from the 2009 fall semester programs: Artbotics, Spirit Cypher, Free Verse!, and Vanguardian Art. In each semester of Artbotics, students are responsible for collectively choosing the design and theme. The latest theme is Robozygous, a series of kinetic sculptures inspired by Mayan glyphs. Each piece is a hybrid creature combining two animals – such as panda/eagle, cat/turtle and toucan/snake that will move in reaction to the viewer. Utilizing microprocessors and motors, each student programmed and fabricated their sculpture. The Artbotics program is a collaboration between UMass Lowell and The Revolving Museum offered to local high school students. For the first time, Djembe drum artisan Dan Holt instructed Spirit Cypher, a twelve-week workshop, in which youth created their own African Djembe-inspired drum. Each drum functions as a musical instrument as well as an individual work of art. The drums will be on display before a performance later in the evening. All guests are welcome to bring their own drum and join the circle. Connected to the evenings’ theme, Vanguardian Art will display fiber art created through various manipulation techniques. Drawing upon Lowell’s textile history with an emphasis on reduce, reuse, and recycle, these artworks repurpose second-hand textiles into unique sculptures. A recent addition to The Revolving Museum family is FreeVerse!, a group dedicated to the art of spoken word, poetry, and the slam movement. Youth classes are held at the Museum with slam performances happening throughout Lowell. FreeVerse! will present a spoken word performance inspired by the Primal Spirit theme. One night only! Check out Primal Spirit on January 9, 2010, from 7-10 p.m. on the 4th floor of the Western Avenue Studios, 122 Western Avenue, Lowell, MA. Light refreshments will be served. For more information, call the museum at 978-937-2787. The event is free and open to the public.

SEE YOU THERE!!!

Happy Holidays

2009-12-26T15:58:00.001-05:00

Hello All

Just wanted to wish you all a Happy Holiday. Hope that you all had a Merry Christmas, a Happy Hanukkah and Happy Kwanzaa.

BLESSINGS!!

Brew'd Awakening Open Mic

2009-12-02T14:34:00.001-05:00

Open Mic!
Brew'd Awakening
61 Market St
630-9

Tomorrow's Feature is the beautiful and talented Ari of Manchester

Come One, Come All, and Come Early...if you want a seat!

check out the link for more info:
http://www.facebook.com/#/event.php?eid=126818799968&ref=mf

P.O.E.T.

2009-12-02T14:26:00.000-05:00

So the youth of FreeVerse! have been hard at work. Our youth have written some amazing poetry and will soon be performing. Please come out and support them. Hear what Lowell's youth has to say about culture and tradition!

P.O.E.T.

Putting Our Ethinicities Together

Friday, December 11th 6-830

Western Ave Studios

Loading Dock

12 MAN GAUNTLET SLAM!!

2009-10-27T21:57:00.000-04:00

so can I tell you.. that there comes a time in everyone's life.. that you feel as if a great truth will be realized.. this.. could be yours..

this Thursday at the Brewd Awakening we are hosting a 12 man gauntlet slam

check it out

Hello ya'll

as you can see this event isnt on the 1st or 3rd Thursday.. its on the 5th :)

since we started alil late we needed to make up one slam in order to have enough people compete for semis in April.. so we saw that October has 5 Thursday's.. so we said..

LETS HAVE A HUGE MAMA JAMIN SLAM!!

so thats were this 12 Man Gauntlet Slam comes into play

we will have twelve poets compete head to head until we are left with three poets in the final round.. two highest scored poets move on to semis in April and the winner of the night receives $20 and gets to feature on December 3rd..

oh man.. this is night is going to have such a high level of intensity that it will be a night none shall forget..

all slam rules still apply and the 12 poets have been pre chosen.. the names of said poets will be announced soon..

the event is free just like the others and just like all the others.. if you want a seat come early..

UML Poetry Event

2009-10-13T23:47:00.000-04:00

Wussup Yall! Its Joey B. here letting yall know it's going down at UML on NOV. the 4th at 9pm there will be a FreeVerse! Hosted poetry event/open mic. We will be working with ASAO American Students of African Origin to make this happen. So again thats a night of poetry at the University of MA Lowell East Campus (Fox Common) at 9Pm. As far as I know its free so come down and spit or listen. Whatever it is yall do its a good time I promise.

Facebook | Brew'd Awakeing open mic and slam #2

2009-10-13T14:32:00.000-04:00

Facebook Brew'd Awakeing open mic and slam #2

Thursday, October 15, 2009
6:30pm - 9:00pm
Brew'd Awakeing
61 Market st
Lowell, MA

Come out and support! all of FreeVerse! will be there!

Poetry events bulletin

2009-10-10T22:53:00.001-04:00

Much thanks to Paula McCarron of the Lowell Poetry Network for this schedule of local poetry events.

Lowell Poetry Network Events: October 2009

ALL Gallery: Rock, Paper, Scissors: Multimedia Exhibit
246 Market Street, Lowell, MA

Reception : October 10 from 1 – 4 p.m.
October 10, 11 : 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
October 16, 17, 18 from 10:00 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Art and poetry merge. Local poets and artists explore creative expression – in word and visual art. ALL Gallery is located adjacent to the National Park Service Center on Market Street, Lowell. The exhibit will run concurrently with the Massachusetts Poetry Festival.
_________________________________________________________________

Second Annual Massachusetts Poetry Festival
October 15 - 18

Readings, workshops and events in locations around the state with many of the events taking place in Lowell For the full schedule of events, visit http://masspoetry.org/
__________________________________________________________________

Edgar Allen Poe Show
A Poem, A Dance, A Dream Within a Dream
Sunday, Oct. 18 6:30 p.m. seating
Athenian Corner Restaurant
207 Market Street, Lowell, MA
Poe readings by Mark Schorr, Meg Smith, Eric Stanway, Anne Madigan Murphy and surprise guests. Special music by Wisteriax. Oriental dance interpretations of Poe’s works.

Tickets $15, in advance payment only, to Meg Smith, PO Box 8797, Lowell, MA 01853-8797. Please note: No need to make separate reservations. We will make them for all our guests.
___________________________________________________________________________

Poetry Reading at 119 Gallery
119 Chelmsford Street, Lowell, MA
Thursday, October 22 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
$3.00 admission includes light refreshments

Featured reader will be Kelley J. White, M.D. Her collection of poems, Toxic Environment (Boston Poet Publishing 2008) provides an insider’s view on life in an inner-city hospital. Kelley serves as poetry editor for Schuykill Valley Journal of the Arts and is mother to three children. Her poem “Pandora” from her first collection, The Patient Presents, was read by Garrison Keillor on NPR’s Writers Almanac.

(Thank you to Diana Saenz, editor of Boston Poet for details regarding Dr. Kelley's work.)
www.bostonpoet.com

An open mic will follow Dr. Kelley’s reading and a brief intermission. All are welcome to participate in the open mic.

Come read. Come listen.
__________________________________________________________________

Chelmsford Public Library and Lowell Poetry Network present:
POETRY ON STAGE: JACK MCCARTHY “Your Stand Up Poetry Guy”
Saturday, October 31st 2:30 – 3:30 p.m.Chelmsford Public Library
25 Boston Road, Chelmsford, MA
Free ~ All welcome

Back by popular demand at Chelmsford Library! Jack McCarthy has been described as a “poetry star” by the Boston Globe, Cambridge Poetry Awards and Boston Phoenix.

"Jack McCarthy's poems tap you on the shoulder, buy you a cup of coffee and start telling you a story,” says poet Hope Jordan.

McCarthy has been on two national slam teams. His collections of poems include: Say Goodnight, Grace Notes (EM Press) and Actual Grace Notes (The Wordsmith Press).

Workshop schedule

2009-10-06T13:29:00.000-04:00

FreeVerse! workshop schedule will be every Monday and Wednesday, 4pm - 6pm in room 404, at the Western Ave Studio located on 122 Western Avenue, Lowell Ma 01851

View Larger Map

For more information regarding class and direction, email your questions or comments to the contacts below.

(Anthony Febo) febo.freeverse@gmail.com
(Masada Jones) masada.jones@gmail.com
(Joey Banh) j87banh@gmail.com
(Sam Pauo) dynamix978@gmail.com

An Awakening...

2009-10-03T11:52:00.000-04:00

"It was filled with non-stop energy as each poet unleashed their talent of spoken words on an eagerly awaiting audience..."

This past Thursday, FreeVerse!'s Anthony Febo hosted the monthly reading at Lowell's Brew'd Awakening* cafe, located on Market Street in downtown Lowell. It was a packed 'haus'! Sitting amongst the audience were fellow FreeVerse! members, Joey Banh, Masada Jones and Sam Pauo along with a sea of writers, artists, and creators; One of whom was Lowell local, Veronica Holmes**, an artist, poet, writer and blogger of art and culture...and these are her thoughts on the event that night...

http://1stangel.co.uk/aaw/vpholmesartstuff/2009/10/02/open-mic-brewd-awakening/

Also, much thanks to those who came out to support us and lowell's art movement in general!

________________________
*www.brewdawakening.com
**To see and read more of Veronica Holmes work, you can check them out at these sites:

http://www.vpholmesart.com
http://VPHolmesArt.imagekind.com/
http://veronica-holmes.fineartamerica.co...
http://www.zazzle.com/vpholmes
http://www.facebook.com/pages/V-P-Holmes...

Support Local Artist

2009-09-29T11:22:00.000-04:00

Hey all

My cousin is a wonderful artist and would love some feedback on his work. Please check him out! http://www.isaiahs.deviantart.com/

And so, it begins....

2009-09-29T08:38:00.000-04:00

After a series of emails, phone calls and meetings, FreeVerse! and the Revolving Museum are now official partners!

Yesterday, FreeVerse! co-founders met with Revolving Museum Executive Director, Diane Testa and Revolving Museum Youth Program Coordinator, Diana Coluntino. After a lengthy discussion about workshop structure, grant and expectation, I'm happy to report that both sides were able to come to a mutual, happy agreement. More informations on workshop date and hours will be post later, as we iron out the details. However for now, I would like to thank The Revolving Museum for this wonderful opportunity to be a part of this growing art's movement in the city of Lowell! To find out more about the Revolving Museum, we encourage you to visit their site at: http://www.revolvingmuseum.org/

Here's....

...to a happy and healthy partnership!

Open Mic!!!!

2009-09-28T14:49:00.000-04:00

So Lowell has heat...

If you want to see/hear/feel the experience.. you can come every 1st and 3rd Thursday at 6:30-9 to the Brew'd Awakening in downtown Lowell, 61 Market St.

Check them out even if your not able to go to the open mic www.brewdawakening.com

This Thursday our features are

Ryan McLellan and Mark Palos

from Manchester..

yesterday was a good day

2009-09-23T12:40:00.000-04:00

FreeVerse! met with the Revolving Museum yesterday and it seems like things are looking up! We may have a space sooner rather than later. Go out and support Revolving Museum and other local artist this weekend at Lowell Open Studios!

http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/event.php?eid=120407009565&ref=ts

first post

2009-09-21T12:30:00.000-04:00

Hey

We officially have a blogspot! YAY!