For the first time since 1993, a group of poets and writers that were part of acclaimed African American poet Etheridge Knight’s “Free People’s Workshop” will reunite Aug. 1, from 5:50-8:30 p.m. at the Chatterbox Jazz Club. The group will read poems and stories at the free event.
Knight’s original workshop ran from 1989 until his death in March 1991 at various locations along Massachusetts Avenue, including the Denouement Gallery, Mugwumps and the Chatterbox Jazz Club.
Kenneth May, an original member who has now been running his own workshop, “The Liquid Arts Network,” for 24 years in Busan, South Korea, is a co-organizer. “Sometimes Y,” Indy’s monthly open mic that happens at the Chatterbox Jazz Club, led by Mat Davis and original member Michael L.L. Collins, is also helping to organize the event. Both groups are direct descendants of Etheridge Knight’s workshop.
Confirmed readers include Sonny Bates, Herman Salinas, Donita Parrish, John Clark, Shobita Mampilly, as well as Collins and May, with many of them flying in from cities across the country for the special occasion.
Etheridge Knight’s workshop was depicted in the epic painting “The Free People’s Poetry Workshop” in 1990 by artist Stephen Stoller, who was also a member of the workshop. Although Stoller will not be able to attend the reading, his painting is part of the event promotions.
Absent “Free People’s Workshop” members Elizabeth Gordon McKim, Francy Stoller, Gail Klein, David Depillo, Lamont Steptoe, Deta Galloway, Jean Anaporte, James Taylor and Evelyn Kellum will be recognized at the reading.
Although the event is free, live music at the Chatterbox Jazz Club starts at 8:30 p.m. and a cover charge will apply for everyone who stays to enjoy the music.
Republish our articles for free, online or in print, under a Creative Commons license.
