Teens, tap into your creativity with internationally-touring poet/rapper Jamey Williams!
For students in Grades 6-12: if you've been interested in writing spoken word poetry, you're in luck!
So, what is spoken word poetry? The Poetry Foundation says it “has its roots in oral traditions and performance. Spoken word can encompass or contain elements of rap, hip-hop, storytelling, theater, and jazz, rock, blues, and folk music. Characterized by rhyme, repetition, improvisation, and word play, spoken word poems frequently refer to issues of social justice, politics, race, and community. Related to slam poetry, spoken word may draw on music, sound, dance, or other kinds of performance to connect with audiences.”
Bay Area spoken word poet, actor, educator, and rapper Jamey L. Williams II helps students find their voice, and for years has been leading after school youth slam poetry teams to victory. Jamey always strives to create a loving and fun environment for everyone he interacts with.
About:
- Teen writers of all levels welcome
- Participants decide writing topics
- Connect in a community-oriented writing space
- Tap into your creativity
- Leave with poems you’ll be proud of
About Jamey Williams:
Jamey Williams (He/Him) has been teaching spoken word poetry workshops in K-12 schools since 2016. He is also a community organizer and internationally-recognized performer. In 2017, after winning the Compliment Death Match at the National Poetry Slam, he became the first person to be dubbed “the nicest poet in the country.” That same year he co-founded the Rich Oak Alchemy Open Mic as well as the Cal State East Bay Slam Poetry Club. In 2020, Jamey came second place in the Bass Schuler Entertainment America’s Best College Poet competition. His spoken word achievements also include: touring internationally; publishing two chapbooks; & performing at Twitter, Yelp, and Google Headquarters.
When Jamey isn’t teaching, acting or competing, he spends his time writing music and pursuing his Master’s Degree.
This free event received partial funding support from the Friends of the Menlo Park Library.