March 1, 2009

THE CONNECTICUT POET ONLINE NEWSLETTER - ISSUE 235

Poetry in Connecticut - March, 2009

TABLE OF CONTENTS_______________________________________

  • Quotes
  • Poem of the Month
  • Book of the Month
  • Website of the Month
  • News Items / Writing Workshops
  • Poetry Calendar for March
  • Subscription and Contact Information

I:__QUOTES________________________________________________

Poetry must have something in it that is barbaric, vast and wild.
– Denis Diderot

When it comes to atoms, language can be used only as in poetry. The poet, too, is not nearly so concerned with describing facts as with creating images.
– Niels Bohr

When a thing has been said and well, have no scruple. Take it and copy it.
– Anatole France


II:__POEM OF THE MONTH__________________________________

LET NO CHARITABLE HOPE

Elinor Wylie (1885 – 1928)

Now let no charitable hope
Confuse my mind with images
Of eagle and of antelope:
I am in nature none of these.

I was, being human, born alone;
I am, being woman, hard beset;
I live by squeezing from a stone
The little nourishment I get.

In masks outrageous and austere
The years go by in single file;
But none has merited my fear,
And none has quite escaped my smile.


III:__BOOK OF THE MONTH_________________________________
Each month we highlight a book of poetry by a Connecticut author.

THE WATER SONNETS
by Kenton Wing Robinson

Kenton Wing Robinson’s first collection of poetry, The Water Sonnets, ranges from the satirical to the sensual, from the bizarre and surreal to the earthy. The latter-day sonnets in this exciting debut volume are marked by a wit that yokes the Metaphysical poets of the Seventeenth Century to distinctly modern voices such as those of John Berryman and Frank O’Hara. At times rollicking and at times melancholy, Robinson’s work is always exciting in its novelty combined with many spritely tips of the hat to the ancients, Catullus in particular. John Surowiecki has this to say about the book: “Like a modern Thales of Miletus, Kenton Wing Robinson buoys his poems with a primal conceit: water as the basis of all things. ‘We are, after all, but bodies of water,’ he writes, ‘constant only in our inconstancy.’”

Kenton Wing Robinson takes his middle name from his grandmother’s maiden name, as it was she who raised him, taught him to read and, when he was still a boy, introduced him to Thomas Carew, her favorite Metaphysical poet. He has written poetry since he was nine years old, and he achieved his first recognition as a writer in the eighth grade, when his English teacher intercepted a poem alleging she had sex with hippopotami. Always a bridesmaid, Robinson has seen three of his collections (Common Bird Songs, The Execution Club, and What It’s Made Of) be finalists or honorable mentions in various contests. His poems have been published in AGNI, The Worcester Review, The Litchfield Review, and other magazines. An award-winning reporter and columnist at The Day in New London, Robinson has been a newsman for most of his life.

$16.00 (ISBN: 978-0-9817883-0-2)
Antrim House


Kenton Wing Robinson will be reading from and signing copies of his book The Water Sonnets in West Hartford on the 4th and in Waterford on the 14th. See the Poetry Calendar below.


IV:__WEBSITE OF THE MONTH______________________________

PROJECT GUTENBERG

Project Gutenberg is the first and largest single collection of free electronic books, or eBooks. They now offer over 27,000 free books in the Project Gutenberg Online Book Catalog and have a grand total of over 100,000 titles available at Project Gutenberg Partners, Affiliates, and Resources. In addition to ebooks, they also offer Audio Books, both human-read and computer-generated, Digitized Sheet Music, and the ability to download entire CDs or DVDs, or have a free disc sent to you.

You can read the books online, download them to your PC, or even read them on your PDA or smartphone. What says nerd--but a nerd with breadth--more than reading poetry on a Blackberry? Perhaps even while waiting in line at an art museum or a Star Trek convention, though that may be pushing it.

www.gutenberg.org


V:__NEWS ITEMS / WRITING WORKSHOPS____________________

Saturday, March 15 2009
10:00am - 5:00pm

SUNDAY WRITING RETREATS
with Sharon Charde

Many of us sense that there are stories within us that need to be told, but cannot find the time, space or circumstances in our busy lives to do so. This series of Sunday writing retreats with Sharon Charde will provide that opportunity. The retreats are intense community writing experiences. Together we create a safe and supportive writing environment that encourages risks we would never take alone. We are fed by the listening of others, the rest from our busy lives, the delicious lunch. There is no critical feedback, only focused attention and deep acceptance.

The group is limited to eight women, many who attend on a regular basis. The cost is $75 per session, or $60 if you sign up for four or more. The dates for 2009 are 3/15 ,4/19, 5/17, 6/14, 7/12, 8/16, 9/13, 11/15, and 12/13. (In October the annual Block Island Writing Retreat will be 23-25). The location is Lakeville, CT, at the home of Sharon Charde. See her web site (http://www.sharoncharde.com/) for more information and testimonials from women who have attended in the past. Write her at sharchar@sbcglobal.net to register or to ask other questions.


VI:__POETRY CALENDAR FOR MARCH______________________
Please contact venues for any possible cancellations due to holidays or inclement weather.

Sunday, March 1 2009
2:00pm


JOHN BASINGER performs PARADISE LOST

In celebration of John Milton’s 400th anniversary, John Basinger will be performing a different book of Paradise Lost every Sunday afternoon at the Buttonwood Tree. Come witness an extraordinary reciting of a fascinating book!

All readings start at 2:00pm. The event is free; donations are gratefully accepted.

Also, visit the website at http://www.paradiselostperformances.com/.

The Buttonwood Tree
605 Main Street
Middletown, CT
860-347-4957
near@buttonwood.org
http://www.buttonwood.org/

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Sunday, March 1 2009
2:00pm - 4:00pm


BEAN & LEAF OPEN MIKE POETRY READING
hosted by Tom Weigel

Old poets read, new voices heard in a new venue with “a killer sound system and lots of delicious teas and coffee and pastries.” Visit the website for more information: http://www.bean-leaf.com/

Bean & Leaf Cafe
13 Washington St.
New London, CT
860-701-0000

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Sunday, March 1 2009
4:30pm - 6:00pm


POETRY POTLUCK AT THE SANCTUARY

Do you love poetry? Would you like to be part of an ongoing poetry discussion group offering food for the mind and the heart? If so, come and join us on the this first Sunday of August at The Sanctuary in East Haddam to discuss poetry and build community.

This is not about sharing our own work but instead offers us a chance to share the work of poets we love, so you don’t have to be a poet to be part of this group. Just come and bring your love of poetry and a poem you would like to share.

Hosted by Greg Coleman, Suzy Lamson, and Edwina Trentham.

The Sanctuary at Shepardfields
59 Bogel Road
East Haddam, CT
(From Daniels Road, turn LEFT onto Bogel, then look for the “Labyrinth & Yurt” sign. It’s a dirt driveway.)

For more information call 860-319-1134 or visit http://www.sanctuaryatshepardfields.org/activities.html.

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Sunday, March 1 2009
7:00pm


JAMES MARSHALL MEMORIAL POETRY SLAM

Poets from New York City and Greater New Haven will perform at the sixth annual James Marshall Memorial Poetry Slam. Poets will compete for the James Marshall Memorial Poetry Prize. The event honors the late health management professor James Marshall, former chairman of Quinnipiac’s Black History Month Committee. The event is sponsored by the Multicultural Events Committee and is part of Quinnipiac’s black history month celebration.

Free and open to the public.

Café Q
Quinnipiac University
275 Mount Carmel Ave.
Hamden, CT

For more information, contact Quinnipiac public relations at 203-582-8652 or frank.campailla@quinnipiac.edu

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Monday, March 2 2009
7:00pm

THE LOVE JONES EXPERIENCE

Spoken Word and Song event. All poets welcome.

$5.00 cover. Hosted by Darlene Brandon Scott.

The Russell
103 Pratt Street
Hartford, CT
http://www.therussell.net/

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Monday, March 2 2009
7:30pm

NEW MONTHLY OPEN MIKE at Buttonwood

New Monthly Open Mike with Jennifer Shafer Wood!

Anything Goes for this open mike - spoken word, poetry etc. We have a piano and congas. Refreshments available. Meets every first Monday.

7:30pm sign up. 8:00pm start. $3.00 donation.

The Buttonwood Tree
605 Main Street
Middletown, CT
860-347-4957
near@buttonwood.org
http://www.buttonwood.org/

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Monday, March 2 2009
7:30pm - 9:00pm

POETRY BEAT

Poetry open mike at Las Vetas Lounge.

Las Vetas Lounge
1462 Post Road
Fairfield, CT
203-255-1958

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Monday, March 2 2009
9:00pm

BEATNIK 2000

Music and poetry every Monday night, hosted by Ed Leonard. No Cover.

www.cafenine.com/schedule.html

Cafe 9
250 State Street
New Haven, CT
203-789-8281

.......................................................................................

Tuesday, March 3 2009
7:00pm - 9:00pm

FIRST TUESDAY POETRY (Middletown)
featuring John Basinger

While best known for his performances of Milton’s Paradise Lost, John is going to surprise us in March!

Broad Street Books hosts a monthly poetry reading, First Tuesday Poetry Series, with a featured poet followed by an open mike, on the first Tuesday of every month at 7:00pm. Admission is free.

45 Broad Street
Middletown, CT
Broad Street Books
For more information, contact Brian Mitchard at 860-685-READ

.......................................................................................

Tuesday, March 3 2009
7:15pm

FIRST TUESDAY POETRY (Norwalk)

The First Tuesday Poetry group meets every month at Barnes & Noble Booksellers. Please come and listen to local poets, bring a favorite poem, read your own poems too. We offer a mix of guest poets, featured regular readers, Open Mike, and Occasional Workshop sessions.

Barnes & Noble Booksellers
Shoprite Plaza
360 Connecticut Avenue
Norwalk, CT
203-866-2213

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Wednesday, March 4 2009
5:00pm


MCC POETRY CLUB OPEN MIKE

All are welcome to attend an open mike hosted by the Manchester Community College Poetry Club. Poets will read their work, and local wordsmiths are invited to participate. Free and Open to the Public. Contact: 860-512-3283

Fireside Commons, Learning Resource Center
Manchester Community College
Great Path
Manchester, CT

.......................................................................................

Wednesday, March 4 2009
7:00pm


KENTON WING ROBINSON book-reading and signing

Kenton Wing Robinson reading from and signing copies of his book The Water Sonnets.

Kenton Wing Robinson takes his middle name from his grandmother’s maiden name, as it was she who raised him, taught him to read and, when he was still a boy, introduced him to Thomas Carew, her favorite Metaphysical poet. He has written poetry since he was nine years old, and he achieved his first recognition as a writer in the eighth grade, when his English teacher intercepted a poem alleging she had sex with hippopotami. Always a bridesmaid, Robinson has seen three of his collections (Common Bird Songs, The Execution Club, and What It’s Made Of) be finalists or honorable mentions in various contests. His poems have been published in AGNI, The Worcester Review, The Litchfield Review, and other magazines. An award-winning reporter and columnist at The Day in New London, Robinson has been a newsman for most of his life.

West Hartford Public Library
20 South Main Street
West Hartford, CT
(There will be two hours free parking at the Isham Garage for library patrons.)

.......................................................................................

Wednesday, March 4 2009
7:30pm


POEMALLEY at Curley’s Diner

Read poetry, discuss writing and other topics of interest.

Curley’s Diner
62 West Park Place
Stamford, CT
203-327-3716
ayarmal@earthlink.net

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Wednesday, March 4 2009
7:30pm - 10:00pm


WEDNESDAY NIGHT POETRY SERIES
featuring Polly Brody

THE BOUNCE! A Quaker style Open Mike

The Bounce is a term coined by Coin Appraiser and poet Rich Hemmings in his York County PA reading Poetry Brew. The idea is:
- Everybody brings a pile of their poems.
- Somebody reads a poem.
- When the poet has finished reading, someone who thinks he or she has a poem that speaks to the previous reader’s poem stands up and reads it--without introduction or signup.
- When that poet has finished reading, somebody else then reads a poem that speaks to the second poem.
- Etc., etc., etc.

We need a lot of willing readers, willing to think about the previous poem and offer one of theirs that comments, contradicts, builds on it. Come and try this crazy, wonderful, and organic open mike style.

WNPS, the longest running weekly poetry series in Connecticut, boasts an open mike, feature poets, a Q&A with the feature, and a poetry critique workshop. For more info, visit the website: http://www.wedpoetry.net/.

Molten Java Coffee Roasters, LLC
102 Greenwood Avenue
Bethel, CT
203-739-0313

.......................................................................................

Wednesday, March 4 2009
8:00pm

CONNECTICUT STUDENT POETS at Manchester Community College

A reading by college students selected as the best in the state. The reading is part of a long-standing and much-admired poetry series organized by Steve Straight. For information, contact file:///C:/Documents%20and%20Settings/All%20Users/Documents/CTPoet%20Newsletter/235%20-%20Mar%2009/sstraight@mcc.commnet.edu.

Free and Open to the Public.

Fireside Commons, Learning Resource Center
Manchester Community College
Great Path
Manchester, CT

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Wednesday, March 4 2009
9:30pm - 11:00pm

POETRY NITE at the Huntington Street Café

Poetry Nite every Wednesday at the Huntington Street Café. Run by Sammy and Natalie, it’s open to everyone. Stop by to check the scene or even read a little something. Walk in and you’ll be added to the list.

Email Pollie_Vack@yahoo.com for info.

Huntington Street Café
90 Huntington Street
Shelton, CT
203-925-9064

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Thursday, March 5 2009
6:00pm - 8:00pm

THE WOMEN GATHER: Poetry Reading
featuring poets will be Shanna T. Melton, Tantra-Zawadi, Mind Evolution, SkRibe, and Crystal Senter Brown

Five lovely poets will grace the gallery with live readings of their works. The Barnum Museum is excited to welcome these five wonderful women to help celebrate Woman’s History Month. The interactive sculpture The Game, by Gallery 1212’s Gerald Moore will also be on site to add to the festivities!

Light refreshments generously donated by M-Bellish Cafe and Tea Room. Please visit M-Bellish at http://www.mbellishtearoom.com/.

The Barnum Museum
820 Main Street
Bridgeport, CT
203-331-1104

To learn more about the poets performing for this event please visit the following sites:
Shanna T. Melton - http://www.poeticsoularts.com/
Tantra-Zawadi - http://www.tantrasmasterwordplay.com/
Mind Evolution - www.myspace.com/mindevolution77
SkRibe - www.myspace.com/skribeuam
Crystal Senter Brown - www.crystalsenterbrown.com

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Thursday, March 5 2009
7:00pm - 10:00pm

THURSDAY NIGHT POETRY

Open Mike Poetry Reading at Bean & Leaf. Old poets read, new voices heard. A new venue with “a killer sound system and lots of delicious teas and coffee and pastries.” Visit the website for more information: http://www.bean-leaf.com/.

Bean & Leaf cafe
13 Washington St.
New London, CT
860-701-0000

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Saturday, March 7 2009
12:00pm - 2:00pm

DAVID K. LEFF

David K. Leff is a freelance writer from Collinsville, CT. The Price of Water, published by Antrim House, is his first collection of poetry. His essays and fiction have appeared in newspapers and magazines, and his non-fiction work, The Last Undiscovered Place, a Connecticut Book Award finalist, was published by the University of Virginia Press in 2004. A second book, Deep Travel, will be published early in 2009.

The reading is part of the New Hartford Art League’s “Art, Words and Music” event, which takes place from 12:00 noon and 2:00pm in the Senior Center at:

New Hartford Town Hall (third floor)
530 Main Street (Route 44)
New Hartford, CT

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Sunday, March 8 2009
2:00pm

PARADISE LOST
performed by John Basinger

In celebration of John Milton’s 400th anniversary, John Basinger will be performing a different book of Paradise Lost every Sunday afternoon at the Buttonwood Tree. Come witness an extraordinary reciting of a fascinating book!

All readings start at 2:00pm. The event is free; donations are gratefully accepted. Also, visit the website at http://www.paradiselostperformances.com/

The Buttonwood Tree
605 Main Street
Middletown, CT
860-347-4957
near@buttonwood.org
www.buttonwood.org

.......................................................................................

Sunday, March 8 2009
2:00pm - 4:00pm


BEAN & LEAF OPEN MIKE POETRY READING
hosted by Tom Weigel

Old poets read, new voices heard in a new venue with “a killer sound system and lots of delicious teas and coffee and pastries.” Visit the website for more information: http://www.bean-leaf.com/

Bean & Leaf Cafe
13 Washington St.
New London, CT
860-701-0000

.......................................................................................

Monday, March 9 2009
7:00pm

THE LOVE JONES EXPERIENCE

Spoken Word and Song event. All poets welcome.

$5.00 cover. Hosted by Darlene Brandon Scott.

The Russell
103 Pratt Street
Hartford, CT
http://www.therussell.net/

.......................................................................................

Monday, March 9 2009
7:15pm

MONDAY NIGHT POETRY in STAMFORD

Monday Night Poetry meets on the second Monday of each month at Barnes & Noble Bookstore in Stamford Town Center. Please come and listen to local poets, bring a favorite poem, or read your own.

Barnes & Noble Booksellers
Stamford Town Center
100 Greyrock Place Suite H009
Stamford, CT
203-323-1248

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Monday, March 9 2009
8:00pm - 10:00pm

IN HOPE OF PEACE: A reading by Asnuntuck Faculty, Staff, and Students.

An open mike follows the featured reading. Refreshments will be served. The event is free and open to the public.

A Candlelight Vigil will take place outside the college at 7:30pm before the reading.

The Coffee House in Cafeteria II
Asnuntuck Community College
170 Elm Street
Enfield, CT
For information contact Edwina Trentham at 860-253-3105 or etrentham@acc.commnet.edu.

.......................................................................................

Monday, March 9 2009
9:00pm

BEATNIK 2000

Music and poetry every Monday night, hosted by Ed Leonard. No Cover.

www.cafenine.com/schedule.html

Cafe 9
250 State Street
New Haven, CT
203-789-8281

.......................................................................................

Tuesday, March 10 2009
7:00pm - 9:00pm


STUDIO 59 POETRY CIRCLE - DOWNTOWN

Come and share your love of poetry or a poem you would love to share. Bring copies of your poem if you want to join the feedback session after the readings.

Open mike hosted by Joan Pavlinsky. No cover. BYOB. Piano available. Art for sale.

Studio 59 Downtown
55 Main St.
Torrington, CT
860-482-6801
studio59poetry@gmail.com

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Wednesday, March 11 2009
6:30pm - 8:30pm


CALLING ALL POETS
presents Brian Clements and Terri Klein

Brian Clements is the author of two print books, Flesh and Wood and Essays Against Ruin, and two online collections, Ions and Burn Whatever Will Burn: a Book of Common Rituals. He edits the small press Firewheel Editions and its Sentence: A Journal of Prose Poetics, and he coordinates the new MFA in Professional Writing at Western Connecticut State University.

Terri Klein is a homemaker who holds a B.A. in comparative literature and an M.B.A. in finance. She is also a performance poet, chapbook author, playwright, director, and contributor to various journals. She is poetry host of the Buttonwood Tree (Middletown, CT) and is a member of Artemis Rising and the Not Just Any Tom, Vic, and Terri Poetry Ensemble.


“Calling All Poets” is an opportunity to hear other poets as well as express your own voice through poetry. Participants are invited to bring original poems and/or other favorites to share in fitting with the open mike theme, “Hope and Change”. 6:20pm sign up.

The reading will be held downstairs. Admission is free. Hosted by Victoria Muñoz.

The Silas Bronson Library
267 Grand Street
Waterbury, CT
203-574-8223

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Wednesday, March 11 2009
7:00pm


INESCAPABLE RHYTHMS

Alchemy Juice Bar supports both established and emerging poets through its new poetry reading and open mike series, “Inescapable Rhythms.” The event takes place on the second Wednesday of each month. A featured poet gives a half hour reading (7:00pm) followed by an open mike (7:30pm), in which members of the audience are invited to share their work.

The series takes its title from the Wallace Stevens poem, “Thirteen Ways of Looking at a Blackbird.” Stevens, a major American Modernist poet, was a Hartford resident.

Alchemy Juice Bar
203 New Britain Ave
Hartford, CT
Email questions to: ahenchey@hotmail.com

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Wednesday, March 11 2009
7:30pm


POEMALLEY at Curley’s Diner

Read poetry, discuss writing and other topics of interest.

Curley’s Diner
62 West Park Place
Stamford, CT
203-327-3716
ayarmal@earthlink.net

.......................................................................................

Wednesday, March 11 2009
7:30pm - 10:00pm


WEDNESDAY NIGHT POETRY SERIES
featuring Tad Richards

Tad Richards is the author of two full-length books of poetry (My Night With the Language Thieves and Situations: a Novel in Verse) and three chapbooks (The Gravel Business, The Map of the Bear, and most recently Take Five: Poems in 5/4 Time), all from Connecticut’s Ye Olde Font Shoppe Press. He has also written about poets and poetry for The Greenwood Encyclopedia of American Poets and Poetry and The Facts on File Companion to 20th-Century American Poetry.

His two most recent works are Film Noir, a book of drawings, and The Rocklins, a collaboration at a distance of 60 years with his stepfather Harvey Fite, creator of Opus 40 (http://www.opus40.org/). Tad’s website is www.opus40.org/tadrichards; his blog is opusforty.blogspot.com. He is featured on the Italian web anthology of American poetry Fieralingue. Two of his poems can be found online in the current Salt River Review and two more in the current Iowa Review (Winter 2008-9).


WNPS, the longest running weekly poetry series in Connecticut, boasts an open mike, feature poets, a Q&A with the feature, and a poetry critique workshop. For more info, visit the website: http://www.wedpoetry.net/.

Molten Java Coffee Roasters, LLC
102 Greenwood Avenue
Bethel, CT
203-739-0313

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Wednesday, March 11 2009
9:00pm


POETZ REALM

Blessings from the Poetz Realm. The venue goes down every 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month. Admission is $5.00 for regular patrons and free for whomever signs up for the open mike. There is a feature for each show. Features have included: Ngoma, Fredrick Douglas, Mo Jarvis, Baub Bidon, E da Storyteller, Shanna Melton, Kamal Imani, Influence, Ainsley Burrows, and others.

Hosted by E da Storyteller and Baub Bidon.

Innovation Center
955 Connecticut Ave
Bridgeport, CT.
poetzrealm.com

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Wednesday, March 11 2009
9:30pm - 11:00pm

POETRY NITE at the Huntington Street Café

Poetry Nite every Wednesday at the Huntington Street Café. Run by Sammy and Natalie, it’s open to everyone. Stop by to check the scene or even read a little something. Walk in and you’ll be added to the list.

Email Pollie_Vack@yahoo.com for info.

Huntington Street Café
90 Huntington Street
Shelton, CT
203-925-9064

.......................................................................................

Thursday, March 12 2009
7:00pm

POETRY ROUNDTABLE

The Guilford Poets Guild’s Second Thursday Poetry Series presents a Poetry Roundtable. Come and share one or two poems.

Admission is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served.

The Greene Art Gallery
(Red barn behind Whitfield’s Cafe)
29 Whitfield St.
Guilford, CT
Contact: 203-453-2036, 203-453-8836
guilfordpoetsguild.wordpress.com

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Thursday, March 12 2009
7:00pm - 10:00pm

THURSDAY NIGHT POETRY

Open Mike Poetry Reading at Bean & Leaf. Old poets read, new voices heard. A new venue with “a killer sound system and lots of delicious teas and coffee and pastries.” Visit the website for more information: http://www.bean-leaf.com/.

Bean & Leaf cafe
13 Washington St.
New London, CT
860-701-0000

.......................................................................................

Saturday, March 14 2009
1:00pm - 3:00pm


KENTON WING ROBINSON book-reading and signing

Kenton Wing Robinson reading from and signing copies of his book The Water Sonnets.

Kenton Wing Robinson takes his middle name from his grandmother’s maiden name, as it was she who raised him, taught him to read and, when he was still a boy, introduced him to Thomas Carew, her favorite Metaphysical poet. He has written poetry since he was nine years old, and he achieved his first recognition as a writer in the eighth grade, when his English teacher intercepted a poem alleging she had sex with hippopotami. Always a bridesmaid, Robinson has seen three of his collections (Common Bird Songs, The Execution Club, and What It’s Made Of) be finalists or honorable mentions in various contests. His poems have been published in AGNI, The Worcester Review, The Litchfield Review, and other magazines. An award-winning reporter and columnist at The Day in New London, Robinson has been a newsman for most of his life.

Borders at Waterford Commons
918 Hartford Turnpike (Route 85)
Waterford, CT


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Saturday, March 14 2009
12:00pm - 2:00pm

DAVID K. LEFF

David K. Leff is a freelance writer from Collinsville, CT. The Price of Water, published by Antrim House, is his first collection of poetry. His essays and fiction have appeared in newspapers and magazines, and his non-fiction work, The Last Undiscovered Place, a Connecticut Book Award finalist, was published by the University of Virginia Press in 2004. A second book, Deep Travel, will be published early in 2009.

Reading and book-signing.

Noble Scholar Bookstore
1192 Farmington Ave.
Bristol, CT

For information, contact Lisa Butts at 860-582-3133.

.......................................................................................

Sunday, March 15 2009
2:00pm

PARADISE LOST
performed by John Basinger

In celebration of John Milton’s 400th anniversary, John Basinger will be performing a different book of Paradise Lost every Sunday afternoon at the Buttonwood Tree. Come witness an extraordinary reciting of a fascinating book!

All readings start at 2:00pm. The event is free; donations are gratefully accepted. Also, visit the website at http://www.paradiselostperformances.com/

The Buttonwood Tree
605 Main Street
Middletown, CT
860-347-4957
near@buttonwood.org
www.buttonwood.org

.......................................................................................

Sunday, March 15 2009
2:00pm - 4:00pm


BEAN & LEAF OPEN MIKE POETRY READING
hosted by Tom Weigel

Old poets read, new voices heard in a new venue with “a killer sound system and lots of delicious teas and coffee and pastries.” Visit the website for more information.

Bean & Leaf Cafe
13 Washington St.
New London, CT
860-701-0000
http://www.bean-leaf.com/

.......................................................................................

Sunday, March 15 2009
4:00pm - 6:00pm


STUDIO 59 POETRY CIRCLE - BARBER STREET
featuring Joan Kunsch

Poetry with the masterful piano music of Timothy Alexandre Wallace.

Joan Kunsch teaches classical ballet at Connecticut’s Nutmeg Conservatory for the Arts, of which she is associate director. Guest teaching and choreography have taken her around North America and to Scandinavia, Great Britain, and The Netherlands. She has written for Pointe Magazine, and has had poetry, illustrations, and articles published in journals in the USA, Norway, Great Britain, and India. Her first book, Playing With Gravity, was published by Antrim House in 2007. She translates contemporary Norwegian poets, gives public poetry readings in Norwegian and English, and has performed with her sister Kathi Byam in a duo called “Flute Meets Poem” since 1989.

$10.00 Cover. Light refreshments, BYOB.

Studio 59 - Barber St.
59 Barber St.
Torrington , CT
860-482-6801
studio59poetry@gmail.com

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Monday, March 16 2008
6:00pm - 8:00pm

CPS POETRY WORKSHOP in DANBURY

The Danbury Chapter of the Connecticut Poetry Society holds a writing workshop at the Danbury Library on the third Monday of each month. Newcomers are welcome! Bring poems for sharing and discussion (about 6 copies to pass around, if possible).

For information, contact: dmh2000@sbcglobal.net

Danbury Library
Upstairs Conference Room
170 Main Street
Danbury, CT

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Monday, March 16 2009
7:00pm

THE LOVE JONES EXPERIENCE

Spoken Word and Song event. All poets welcome.

$5.00 cover. Hosted by Darlene Brandon Scott.

The Russell
103 Pratt Street
Hartford, CT
http://www.therussell.net/

.......................................................................................

Monday, March 16 2009
9:00pm

BEATNIK 2000

Music and poetry every Monday night, hosted by Ed Leonard. No Cover.

www.cafenine.com/schedule.html

Cafe 9
250 State Street
New Haven, CT
203-789-8281

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Wednesday, March 18 2009
7:00pm


THIRD WEDNESDAY POETRY

Third Wednesday Poetry Series is a new series at Corleones Cafe. An open mike will follow feature readers.

Host: Edmond Chibeau

Corleones Cafe
103 Union Street
Willimantic, CT

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Wednesday, March 18 2009
7:30pm


POEMALLEY at Curley’s Diner

Read poetry, discuss writing and other topics of interest.

Curley’s Diner
62 West Park Place
Stamford, CT
203-327-3716
ayarmal@earthlink.net

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Wednesday, March 18 2009
7:30pm - 10:00pm


WEDNESDAY NIGHT POETRY SERIES
featuring a CT Slam Team Slam

Consider slamming, the Olympic-style poetry recitations with judges and decimals. “The point is not the points. The Point is the Poems!” - Alan Wolf. For the slam, bring at least three poems, original work only can be slammed, and poems must be performed in three minutes or less. There will also be a standard open mike.

The slam will be hosted by Slam Master Dan.

WNPS, the longest running weekly poetry series in Connecticut, boasts an open mike, feature poets, a Q&A with the feature, and a poetry critique workshop. For more info, visit the website: http://www.wedpoetry.net/.

Molten Java Coffee Roasters, LLC
102 Greenwood Avenue
Bethel, CT
203-739-0313

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Wednesday, March 18 2009
9:30pm - 11:00pm

POETRY NITE at the Huntington Street Café

Poetry Nite every Wednesday at the Huntington Street Café. Run by Sammy and Natalie, it’s open to everyone. Stop by to check the scene or even read a little something. Walk in and you’ll be added to the list.

Email Pollie_Vack@yahoo.com for info.

Huntington Street Café
90 Huntington Street
Shelton, CT
Phone: 203-925-9064

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Thursday, March 19 2009
6:30pm


WORD OF MOUTH POETRY SERIES
featuring Lisa Starr

Lisa Starr is Rhode Island’s Poet Laureate, and also an inn-keeper, a mother, and a basketball coach. She tries to balance her time among a variety of interests, her family, and her passion for poetry. She is a two-time recipient of the R.I. Fellowship for Poetry. In her capacity as Poet Laureate, Starr is generating a statewide poetry pen-pal system which creates and then partners writing circles among student and elderly communities around the state. She has also established poetry circles in hospitals, homeless shelters, the state prison, and agencies for children and adults with severe mental and physical disabilities. She is the author of three poetry books: Mad With Yellow, This Place Here, and Days of Dogs and Driftwood. Starr is the founder and director of the Block Island Poetry Project, the nationally acclaimed celebration of poetry, the arts, and humanity. With the help of husband Champlin, children Orrin (12) and Millie (11), and Brother the Dog, Starr operates the Hygeia House, a 10-room inn on Block Island. When time permits, she writes her heart out.

On the third Thursday of each month, Word of Mouth Poetry Series celebrates an eclectic mix of poetic voices. Free. Refreshments. Open mike. Outstanding featured readers. In a casual setting. Open to all members of the public and others. For more information, please contact allwordofmouth@gmail.com or mcguireschwartz@gmail.com.

Doors Open at 6:30. Open mike at 7:00. Please arrive a few minutes early to sign up for open mike.

The Institute Library
847 Chapel Street
New Haven, CT

Word of Mouth is an affiliate of Arts and Literature Laboratory. Please visit our website at allgallery.org.

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Thursday, March 19 2009
7:00pm - 9:00pm

WINTONBURY LIBRARY POETRY SERIES
featuring John Popielaski

John Popielaski’s recent book, A Brief Eureka for the Alchemists of Peace (Antrim House), has garnered much praise. As one critic says, “these poems are by turns solemn, comic, earnest, ironic, wistful and hopeful... Popielaski explores the small (and not-so-small) kindnesses and brutalities of humanity.” He teaches at Xavier High School.

An open mike follows the featured poet. The open mike theme is “Dreams.”

Wintonbury Branch Poetry Series, now in its eleventh year, presents a featured poet followed by a themed open mike. For more information, please call the Wintonbury Branch at 860-242-0041.

Wintonbury Branch Library
1015 Blue Hills Avenue
Bloomfield, CT
www.prosserlibrary.info/wintonbury_branch.htm

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Thursday, March 19 2009
7:00pm - 9:00pm

MISHI-MAYA-GAT Spoken Word & Music Series
presents Elizabeth Thomas and Brian Johnson

7:00pm - Featured Musicians: Kangho Lee, cello, and Theodore Arm, violin. Cellist Kangho Lee has been a sought-after soloist and chamber musician since his orchestral debut with the Seoul Philharmonic at the age of twelve. He has performed with leading orchestras in Korea, the United States, and Europe. Violinist Theodore Arm has appeared as soloist, recitalist, and guest artist with such well known organizations as the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center, The Group for Contemporary Music, and Bargemusic, Ltd.

8:00pm - Featured Poets: Elizabeth Thomas and Brian Johnson

Elizabeth Thomas is a widely published poet, performer, advocate of the arts, and teacher. Her most recent book of poetry is From the Front of the Classroom. She has also published two previous poetry collections. She has read her work throughout the United States and has been a member of three Connecticut National Poetry Slam teams. As an advocate of youth in the arts, Elizabeth is a coach and organizer with Brave New Voices: International Youth Poetry Slam and Festival. She is also the founder of UpWords Poetry, a company dedicated to promoting programs for young writers and educators. She hosts a website at http://www.upwordspoetry.com/. Elizabeth also teaches poetry courses for MCC’s Credit-Free Programs.

Brian Johnson is the author of Torch Lake and Other Poems and a chapbook of prose poems, Self- Portrait. His poems have appeared in American Letters and Commentary, The Prose Poem: An International Journal, Quarter after Eight, Sentence, Drunken Boat, and many other journals. He is the recipient of a CT Commission on the Arts Fellowship and two Pushcart Prize nominations. Brian received an M.F.A. in Rhetoric and Composition Studies from Brown University and is associate professor of English at Southern Connecticut State University.


Free and Open to the Public. Sponsored by the MCC Foundation.
Hosted by Stephen Campiglio.

Fireside Commons, Learning Resource Center
Manchester Community College
Great Path
Manchester, CT

For more information or directions, please visit the Mishi-maya-gat web page at http://www.mcc.commnet.edu/faculty/spoken.php or call 860-512-2824.

.......................................................................................

Thursday, March 19 2009
7:00pm - 10:00pm

THURSDAY NIGHT POETRY

Open Mike Poetry Reading at Bean & Leaf. Old poets read, new voices heard. A new venue with “a killer sound system and lots of delicious teas and coffee and pastries.” Visit the website for more information: http://www.bean-leaf.com/.

Bean & Leaf cafe
13 Washington St.
New London, CT
860-701-0000

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Thursday, March 19 2009
7:00pm - 10:00pm


WORDS IN THE WORKS
An open forum for your brain, mouth, and pencil!

Come out and read your poems, short stories, essays, battle raps, live journal entries, other people's phone #'s, or any of your written works you would like to share! Or just come out to listen!

Please donate to help save Wrench In The Works.

Coffee/Tea/Hosmer Mountain Soda will be provided.

Wrench In The Works
861 Main St
Willimantic, CT

For more information: roddyr@stu.easternct.edu

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Thursday, March 19 2009
7:30pm - 9:00pm


THIRD THURSDAY OPEN MIC

Open mike poetry reading on the third Thursday of every month at the Stamford Borders.

Borders
1041 High Ridge Road (near Merritt Parkway exit 35)
Stamford, CT
Phone: 203-968-9700

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Friday, March 20 2009
1:00pm - 2:45pm

POETRY DISCUSSION GROUP

Retired English professor Alan Holder leads this once-a-month poetry discussion, which take place on the third Friday of the month at 1:00pm. Each month a different poet’s work will be up for discussion. New members always welcome.

A limited number of free copies of the book to be discussed will be available for approximately one month before the meeting. See the library’s Circulation Desk. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library.

Location: Dayton Program Room
Ridgefield Library
472 Main Street (Route 35)
Ridgefield, CT
203-438-2282 or
rdgprograms@biblio.org
http://www.ridgefieldlibrary.org/

.......................................................................................

Friday, March 20 2009
7:00pm

OPEN MIKE NIGHT at RJ JULIA

Come read from your newest short story, poem, or essay and feel the rush of taking your work public. All we ask in return? That you limit your time to 5-7 minutes, and that you come prepared to be impressed! Please reserve your spot at the Information counter.

Visit our events page at www.rjjulia.com/events/madison.lasso.

RJ Julia Booksellers
768 Boston Post Road
Madison, CT
203-245-3959
books@rjjulia.com

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Friday, March 20 2009
7:00pm

MYSTIC ARTS CAFÉ

Mystic Arts Café is an eclectic series featuring nationally renowned poets. The doors open at 7:00pm and the reading begins at 7:30pm. The Arts Café is in its 15th year.

Mystic Arts Center
9 Water Street
Mystic, CT
860-536-5680


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Sunday, March 22 2009
2:00pm

PARADISE LOST
performed by John Basinger

In celebration of John Milton’s 400th anniversary, John Basinger will be performing a different book of Paradise Lost every Sunday afternoon at the Buttonwood Tree. Come witness an extraordinary reciting of a fascinating book!

All readings start at 2:00pm. The event is free; donations are gratefully accepted. Also, visit the website at http://www.paradiselostperformances.com/

The Buttonwood Tree
605 Main Street
Middletown, CT
860-347-4957
near@buttonwood.org
www.buttonwood.org

.......................................................................................

Sunday, March 22 2009
2:00pm - 4:00pm


BEAN & LEAF OPEN MIKE POETRY READING
hosted by Tom Weigel

Old poets read, new voices heard in a new venue with “a killer sound system and lots of delicious teas and coffee and pastries.” Visit the website for more information.

Bean & Leaf Cafe
13 Washington St.
New London, CT
860-701-0000
http://www.bean-leaf.com/

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Monday, March 23 2009
7:00pm

THE LOVE JONES EXPERIENCE

Spoken Word and Song event. All poets welcome.

$5.00 cover. Hosted by Darlene Brandon Scott.

The Russell
103 Pratt Street
Hartford, CT
http://www.therussell.net/

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Monday, March 23 2009
9:00pm

BEATNIK 2000

Music and poetry every Monday night, hosted by Ed Leonard. No Cover.

www.cafenine.com/schedule.html

Cafe 9
250 State Street
New Haven, CT
203-789-8281

.......................................................................................

Tuesday, March 24 2009
7:00pm

THE ORDINARY EVENING READING SERIES
featuring Douglas Bauer and Lisa Starr

Douglas Bauer’s books include the novels Dexterity, The Very Air, and The Book of Famous Iowans, and the non-fiction books Prairie City, Iowa and The Stuff of Fiction. He’s also edited two anthologies, Prime Times: Writers on Their Favorite Television Shows and Death by Pad Thai and Other Unforgettable Meals. His stories and essays have been appeared in many magazines.

Lisa Starr’s latest collection of poems is Mad with Yellow, which was just published. Rhode Island’s poet laureate, she moved to Block Island in 1986 and never wanted to leave. With her husband, Champlin, and their children Orrin and Camille, Lisa owns and operates the Hygeia House. Lisa is a two-time Rhode Island poetry fellowship winner, a basketball coach, and a former college instructor and waitress. Her two previous collections are Days of Dogs and Driftwood and This Place Here, and her individual works have appeared in journals and publications around the country. Lisa is the founder and director of the Block Island Poetry Project.

The Ordinary Evening Reading Series was created to bring emerging and established poets and writers to New Haven, and to enrich the already robust artistic, cultural, and literary scene in the Elm City. The readings take place on a Tuesday at 7:00pm in the Anchor Bar’s Mermaid Room. Seating is limited so get there early!

The Anchor Bar’s Mermaid Room (Downstairs)
272 College Street
New Haven, CT
203-865-1512
ordinaryevening.blogspot.com

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Tuesday, March 24 2009
7:30pm

POETRY FOR DARFUR: A Poetry Slam for World Struggle in Hartford

The Russell and Boutwestindies Group present Poetry for Darfur: A Poetry Slam for World Struggle. Cover charge: $7.00, or $5.00 with canned food item. All charity proceeds will go to Catholic Charities Migration and Refugees Services on Market St. in Hartford.

Contestants: Please apply to info@boutwestindies.com by March 15 to enter Slam.

The Russell
103 Pratt Street
Hartford, CT
For questions or comments, please call Zimbabwe at 860-478-5814, or check http://www.boutwestindies.com/ for more info.

Boutwestindies Group is continuing a year long poetry slam circuit on Tuesday March 24, 2009 at 7:30pm. The event will begin with an open mike to the public, and then contestants will compete at 8:30pm. The contestants will have to perform poetry to the theme of ‘Poetry for Darfur’, where they will either compete to this theme or they can perform a poem related to World Struggle. They will compete before panel of 3 judges. They will perform in two sets, two 3 min poems with the top seven making it to final round. The winners will be awarded cash prizes: $100.00 to first place winner, 2nd place will receive Dinner for two at The Russell Wadsworth location up to a decided value, and $25.00 for 3rd.

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Wednesday, March 25 2009
7:30pm


WALLY SWIST at UCONN

First local screening of In Praise of the Earth, the new documentary film about poet Wally Swist made by the award winning filmmaker Elizabeth Wilda. Immediately after, Wally Swist will read from his most recent book, Mount Toby Poems. Swist has published seven chapbooks and seven books of poetry. His work has appeared in such literary magazines as The Larcom Review, Peregrine, and Modern Haiku.

UConn Co-op
2075 Hillside Road
Storrs, CT
860-486-5027
More information at UConn Co-op

.......................................................................................

Wednesday, March 25 2009
7:30pm


POEMALLEY at Curley’s Diner

Read poetry, discuss writing and other topics of interest.

Curley’s Diner
62 West Park Place
Stamford, CT
203-327-3716
ayarmal@earthlink.net

.......................................................................................

Wednesday, March 25 2009
7:30pm - 10:00pm


WEDNESDAY NIGHT POETRY SERIES
featuring Mother Tongue!

Three poets for the price of one! Mother Tongue! is Valerie Lawson, Elizabeth Thomas and Faith Vicinanza - all legacy slam poets, all widely published, and all educators and veterans of the Women of the World slam last summer. Don’t miss this one. And stay tuned for more info.

WNPS, the longest running weekly poetry series in Connecticut, boasts an open mike, feature poets, a Q&A with the feature, and a poetry critique workshop. For more info, visit the website: http://www.wedpoetry.net/.

Molten Java Coffee Roasters, LLC
102 Greenwood Avenue
Bethel, CT
203-739-0313

.......................................................................................

Wednesday, March 25 2009
9:00pm


POETZ REALM

Blessings from the Poetz Realm. The venue goes down every 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month. Admission is $5.00 for regular patrons and free for whomever signs up for the open mike. There is a feature for each show. Features have included: Ngoma, Fredrick Douglas, Mo Jarvis, Baub Bidon, E da Storyteller, Shanna Melton, Kamal Imani, Influence, Ainsley Burrows, and others.

Hosted by E da Storyteller and Baub Bidon.

Innovation Center
955 Connecticut Ave
Bridgeport, CT.
poetzrealm.com

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Wednesday, March 25 2009
9:30pm - 11:00pm

POETRY NITE at the Huntington Street Café

Poetry Nite every Wednesday at the Huntington Street Café. Run by Sammy and Natalie, it’s open to everyone. Stop by to check the scene or even read a little something. Walk in and you’ll be added to the list.

Email Pollie_Vack@yahoo.com for info.

Huntington Street Café
90 Huntington Street
Shelton, CT
203-925-9064

.......................................................................................

Thursday, March 26 2009
4:00pm


MEGHAN O’ROURKE: Writers Who Edit, Editors Who Write

Poet, critic, and editor Meghan O’Rourke will read from her work and discuss careers in editing. Halflife, O’Rourke’s first book of poems, was published to wide acclaim in 2008. The New York Times praised her ability to “distinguish intelligence from chatter, to discern a path to the authentic.” Her writing has appeared in The New Yorker, The New Republic, Yale Review, and The New York Times Book Review. O’Rourke began her editorial career at the New Yorker in 1997. In 2002, she became culture editor for Slate, and since 2005, she has served as a poetry editor at the Paris Review. Sponsored by the Beatrice Fox Auerbach Foundation Fund at the Hartford Foundation.

UConn Co-op
2075 Hillside Road
Storrs, CT
860-486-5027
More information at UConn Co-op

.......................................................................................

Thursday, March 26 2009
6:00pm


YALE BOOKSTORE POETRY
presents Poetry Club of Central High School

Members of the Poetry Club of Central High School in Bridgeport will read their poems, followed by an open mike.

Each month The Yale Bookstore hosts a Thursday Poetry Night. Step up to the Open Mike and share your poems or the verses of your favorite poets.

Periodicals Department, Upper Level
The Yale Bookstore At Barnes & Noble
77 Broadway
New Haven, CT
203-777-8440

......................................................................................

Thursday, March 26 2009
7:00pm

RIVERWOOD POETRY SERIES at Wood

Note the venue change this month.

This month the Riverwood Poetry Series is reading in collaboration with the Women Composers Festival. The event will be held at the Unitarian Meetinghouse in Hartford, instead of at the Wood Library in South Windsor. (The series will move back to Wood in April.)

Unitarian Meetinghouse
50 Bloomfield Avenue
Hartford, CT
http://www.ushartford.com/

The Riverwood Poetry Series presents feature readers and an open mike. Admission is free. Refreshments served.

.......................................................................................

Thursday, March 26 2009
7:00pm - 10:00pm

THURSDAY NIGHT POETRY

Open Mike Poetry Reading at Bean & Leaf. Old poets read, new voices heard. A new venue with “a killer sound system and lots of delicious teas and coffee and pastries.” Visit the website for more information: http://www.bean-leaf.com/.

Bean & Leaf cafe
13 Washington St.
New London, CT
860-701-0000

.......................................................................................

Thursday, March 26 2009
8:00pm

AN EVENING OF STUDENT POETRY

A reading by the 2009 Wesleyan Student Poets and the Connecticut Poetry Circuit Student Poets, including Wesleyan’s winner, Susanna Myrseth ’09.

Wesleyan University
Russell House
350 High Street
Middletown, CT
Contact: 860-685-3448
russellhouse@wesleyan.edu

.......................................................................................

Friday, March 27 2009
7:00pm - 9:00pm


THE ECLECTIC POETRY LOUNGE

*Read your poetry or prose
*Spoken word welcome
*Acoustic and a cappella encouraged

Sandman Gallery Cafe and Gallery
39 West Main Street
Meriden, CT

Donations accepted

For more info contact: 860-622-8372
Email: eclecticpoetry@gmail.com

.......................................................................................

Saturday, March 28 2009
6:30pm


THE RIVERWOOD POETRY SERIES at Buttonwood
presents An Evening of Irish Storytelling Through Poetry

A Kelly-Greene reading featuring Kathryn Kelly and Maggie Greene, with a musical prelude by Patrick & Joseph Ganci on violin and piano, respectively. Hosted by Colin Haskins.

Suggested donation is $3.00 and a non-perishable food item to be donated to the local soup kitchen/food pantry. Non-perishable food donations welcome to benefit the St. Vincent de Paul Place. Goodwill donations welcome.

The Buttonwood Tree
605 Main Street
Middletown, CT
860-347-4957
near@buttonwood.org
http://www.buttonwood.org/

.......................................................................................

Saturday, March 28 2009
7:30pm


ARTSPEAK - A New Open Mike in Simsbury!

Peaberry’s Café of Simsbury is starting Artspeak, a poetry open mike on the fourth Saturday of every month hosted by Rob Dauphinais. We are hoping to generate interest in every corner of CT, so spread the word! The night will begin at 7:30 and go until 9:30, however, if there is an abundance of artists, we will go until 10:00. Our aim is to create an environment where poets of all ages will feel welcome and wanted, as well as challenged. We want this to be an atmosphere where artists can share and network, and, most importantly, grow!

All ages are welcome and we ask that each artist be sensitive to the audience and what may or may not be appropriate. Beyond this request, we want to keep censorship to a minimum, and we support freedom of speech and expression.

Artspeak will feature another experimental element, improvisational jazz. We’re interested in the marriage of poetry and music, words and rhythm. If you are a jazz musician interested in playing, please come! These events will be relatively fluid and open. Our desire is to cultivate a dialogue between the art of words and the art of music.

Peaberry’s Café
712 Hopmeadow Street
Simsbury, CT
860-658-2930

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Sunday, March 29 2009
2:00pm

PARADISE LOST
performed by John Basinger

In celebration of John Milton’s 400th anniversary, John Basinger will be performing a different book of Paradise Lost every Sunday afternoon at the Buttonwood Tree. Come witness an extraordinary reciting of a fascinating book!

All readings start at 2:00pm. The event is free; donations are gratefully accepted. Also, visit the website at http://www.paradiselostperformances.com/

The Buttonwood Tree
605 Main Street
Middletown, CT
860-347-4957
near@buttonwood.org
www.buttonwood.org

.......................................................................................

Sunday, March 29 2009
2:00pm - 4:00pm


BEAN & LEAF OPEN MIKE POETRY READING
hosted by Tom Weigel

Old poets read, new voices heard in a new venue with “a killer sound system and lots of delicious teas and coffee and pastries.” Visit the website for more information.

Bean & Leaf Cafe
13 Washington St.
New London, CT
860-701-0000
http://www.bean-leaf.com/

.......................................................................................

Monday, March 30 2009
7:00pm

THE LOVE JONES EXPERIENCE

Spoken Word and Song event. All poets welcome.

$5.00 cover. Hosted by Darlene Brandon Scott.

The Russell
103 Pratt Street
Hartford, CT
http://www.therussell.net/

.......................................................................................

Monday, March 30 2009
9:00pm

BEATNIK 2000

Music and poetry every Monday night, hosted by Ed Leonard. No Cover.

www.cafenine.com/schedule.html

Cafe 9
250 State Street
New Haven, CT
203-789-8281

.......................................................................................

Monday, March 31 2009
7:00pm

VERA SCHWARCZ

Vera Schwarcz was born and raised in Cluj, Romania, where she began her explorations of poetry in several languages. Her mother tongues include Hungarian and Romanian, with Yiddish, German, Hebrew, Russian and French added along the way. After emigrating to the United States in 1962, she pursued degrees in East Asian studies and history at Vassar, Yale and Stanford. A member of the first group of exchange scholars to be sent to China in the spring of 1979, she has returned to Beijing repeatedly during the past three decades. All along, her corpus of scholarly writing has been accompanied by the publication of poems in several languages in the United States, Europe and Asia. The daughter of Holocaust survivors, Schwarcz has made the quest for remembrance a central theme in all her works. Her writing has been nominated for the National Jewish Book Award and has been accorded several major grants, including a Guggenheim Fellowship. Currently, Vera Schwarcz is serving as Director of the Center for East Asian Studies at Wesleyan University and holds the Freeman Chair in East Asian Studies.

This is the inaugural reading for Vera Schwarcz’s new book, Chisel of Remembrance. Reception and book-signing to follow.

Wesleyan University
Russell House
350 High Street
Middletown, CT
Contact agreene@wesleyan.edu


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