LIVING THE LESSON

Da Poetry Lounge has become a staple in the culture of Los Angeles spoken word. This modern day Globe Theatre provides a stage for LA's newest and brightest poets to exhibit thier talents and spread the power of poetry. A Tuesday night mecca for socialites and urbanites alike, Da' Lounge draws as diverse a crowd you can see in terms of both cultures and ages. It prides itself on "on [providing] an important forum for personal expression without criticism or judgment" and fosters young talent while showcasing classic artistry.

Additionaly, if you believe a building is only as stable as the foundation it is built upon, I can confidently say that Da Lounge should continue to thrive for a long time. It was founded by Tony Award winning Poetri, National Slam Champion Shihan, prolific LA DJ/Poet Brutha Gimel and reknowned actor Dante Basco. Poetri, Shihan and Dante have all performed on HBO's "Def Poetry Jam" a spoken word TV program hosted by Hip Hop artist Mos Def and founded by Hip Hop mogul Russel Simmons. You can watch Poetri peform his piece "Money" from his first appearance on "Def Poetry Jam" below or you can watch him live on Tuesdays at Da Lounge located at The Greenway Court Theater, 544 N. Fairfax Blvd, Los Angeles CA 90036 from 9:00PM-Midnight, but you better get there early to grab a seat or a space on stage.

Finally, whether you are reading this in LA or not, it is important for all of us in the SCORES community to realize the importance of the local arts. It is in venues like Da Lounge that the lessons we teach about using creative writing to impact your community come to life.Where high school students can stand next to HBO performers and be seen as poets under the same light. Where messages are sent, lessons are learned, experiences are shared and characters are shaped. These artists exhibit the potential we know our students have and that we strive to help them realize. So SUPPORT THE LOCAL ARTS and support the people living our lesson.