The LasT WorD ROCKS!
Moonstone Arts Center
Thursday, September 15
Report by: Bryant Nnadi
The LasT WorD is ground zero for the “Movement for a DoPeR PhiLLy.” It is an all-ages monthly open mic/performance art fiasco orchestrated by Saint Skribbly LaCroix and featuring the top readings and performances by the most eclectic performing artists in the Tri-State area.
I would have to agree with Skribbly's description, but let me add that this art fiasco is more than just a great place for wanderers to find poetry and live open performance art. The Last word is also ideal for young budding artists who need a stage to practice some of their in-progress work. Since I've been going to these episodes/ shows I've been getting the vibe that I'm in a practice hall, lightly critiquing my friends work in the library. It doesn't hurt that the lovely people who organized the event, cater including wine and an assortment of baked goods. I feel as if I had joined a private membership that fills a certain void inside.
The ambiance was subtle and still. I wished there were more women present, making the droves of masculine energy walking through the door and into the room more balanced, but like I said before; it's a good thing they serve wine here. One of my favorite bursts of energy at this event is when the host messes up the introduction of the next artist to the stage. First the host breaks out into his speech, which goes "The next Performer is going to leave nothing home,.." and then the crowd finishes "But he's going to leave it on all the stage." Now if Skribbly forgets how to finish this sequence, all of a sudden the audience starts to bombard him with barrage after barrage of Yo Momma jokes. It's one of the bravest acts and creative ways to keep the crowd engaged in a show. The whole place erupted in laughter when all of a sudden one joke made it to the stage in clarity going, "Yo Mama so freaky, she could suck peanut butter through a coffee straw." There was also a championship battle for Swag on the Mike between Mike joseph Johnson and Reem GameFace Hall. Both poets offered their own styles and think tanks for the audience to connect but in the end GameFace would emerge as the victor in a three part series, which lasted the whole first half of the night.
The performances were ok but I would be lying if I said that they were ground breaking or amazing. I didn’t even stay for the whole event after the first intermission. I had enough of the event for the first hour and felt like it was the perfect time to wander off into the night. I still recommend to giving the last word a shot. If not for the poetry, go for the drinks and baked goods. So if you looking for a relaxed environment where you can get a simple drink and listen to some poetry I would say hit up The Last Word every third Thursday of the month at Moonstone Book store. I placed the address below. Till next time, I’ll give you my adventures in the Philly nights.
Bryant Nnadi
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