Founders Night: Celebrating 25 Years of Da Poetry Lounge
By Eric W. Reid
On June 27th, a momentous occasion will take place at Greenway Court Theatre in Los Angeles. Da Poetry Lounge, affectionately known as “DPL” or “Da Lounge,” will celebrate its 25th Anniversary, marking a quarter-century of poetic brilliance, artistic expression, and community building. This milestone event not only commemorates DPL’s incredible journey but also honors the enduring partnership between Da Poetry Lounge and the Greenway Court Theatre, which has spanned over two decades. We will honor the founders, the hosts, the performers, the audience, and the countless individuals who have contributed to its enduring success. This milestone is a testament to their unwavering dedication, resilience, and creative spirit that has shaped DPL into what it is today. Let us embark on a nostalgic trip down memory lane as we reflect on the remarkable story of Da Poetry Lounge.
The Founders’ Vision:
In 1998, Dante Basco joined forces with Shihan Van Clief, DJ Brutha Gimel, and Poetri Smith, collectively becoming the visionary founders of Da Poetry Lounge. With their unique talents and shared dedication to the spoken word art form, this dynamic quartet set out to transform DPL into a nationally recognized institution.
Shihan and Poetri took on the crucial roles of weekly hosts, guiding audiences through mesmerizing performances and creating a welcoming and nurturing environment for poets to share their voices. Meanwhile, DJ Brutha Gimel masterfully curated the musical backdrop, infusing each gathering with the perfect blend of rhythm and atmosphere.
From Living Room to Cultural Hub:
The roots of Da Poetry Lounge can be traced back to 1997 when Dante Basco, a talented actor, and spoken word artist, opened his Hollywood living room to a small group of friends seeking a space to practice and share their passion for spoken word poetry. What started as a weekly gathering among friends quickly blossomed into a vibrant and inclusive community event, attracting a growing number of poets and enthusiasts.
Finding a Home at Greenway Court Theatre:
Throughout its early years, DPL found its place in various venues across Los Angeles. However, in 2000, the Lounge discovered its true home at Greenway Court Theatre. This partnership between Da Poetry Lounge and Greenway Court Theatre would prove to be a pivotal moment, solidifying a creative alliance that would span over two decades.
Greenway Court Theatre provided the ideal space for DPL to flourish and grow. Its welcoming ambiance, state-of-the-art facilities, and commitment to the arts perfectly complemented the vision and values of Da Poetry Lounge. This partnership became the catalyst for DPL’s evolution into the nation’s largest weekly open mic event.
A Legacy of Artistic Expression and Community:
Twenty-five years later, Da Poetry Lounge stands as a testament to the power of words and the strength of community. Every Tuesday night, Greenway Court Theatre’s doors open to over 200 people from all walks of life, creating a melting pot of diverse voices, perspectives, and experiences. The stage becomes a sanctuary where poets pour their hearts out, sharing stories that evoke emotions, challenge conventions, and inspire change.
DPL’s enduring legacy lies not only in its remarkable longevity but also in its ability to foster connection and growth. It has nurtured countless aspiring poets, providing them with a platform to develop their skills, express their truths, and find their artistic voice. Da Lounge has become a sanctuary where individuals from around the globe converge, united by a shared love for poetry and the human experience.
Looking Forward: Celebrating 25 Years and Beyond:
In addition, we celebrate the expansion of DPL as an organization, Da Poetry Lounge Co., a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, dedicated to providing a platform for celebrating poetry while using it as the foundation for creativity, innovation, and expression across various media outlets. Da Poetry Lounge Co. is now led by its inaugural Executive Director, Jasmine Williams, an esteemed artist, producer, and organizer. DPL’s weekly hosts and educational program leaders now feature Edwin Bodney, Yesika Salgado, Alyesha Wise-Hernandez, and Matthew “Cuban” Hernandez.
Beyond this milestone celebration, DPL remains committed to nurturing the next generation of poets, spoken word artists, creatives, and innovators. Da Lounge continues to be a refuge for those seeking solace, a megaphone for those silenced, and a mirror reflecting the diverse tapestry of human experiences. Through live events, educational programming, TV/Film Productions, volunteer opportunities, and collaborations with community organizations and industry partners, DPL continues to inspire and empower the world through the transformative power of poetry.
More than just a celebration of the past, the 25th anniversary of Da Poetry Lounge is a highlight of the enduring legacy it has created. It is a moment to look forward with hope and anticipation for the many years of artistic brilliance and community-building that lie ahead.