The Nuyorican Poet's Cafe and Latino/a Spoken Word Poetry

One of the most unfortunate crimes in the world is to waste talent. In the Lower East Side of New York in the 1970’s, the waste was piled as high as the tenement buildings. But a Rutgers English professor named Miguel Algarin decided that he had enough of such desecration of so much potential. Alagarin decided that he would invite the many budding poets in the neighborhood to meet in his living room each week to share their work and learn from each other. From such humble beginnings grew the now famous Nuyorican Poet’s Café.

Located on East 3rd street and Loisaida Ave. (Ave. C), the Nuyorican Poet’s Café has become one of the premier locations for not only poetry, but just about all other “urban” arts. Since most ghetto art forms are not represented in mainstream venues, this venue for encouraging, rather then disparaging urban arts, meets a unique need.

Every Saturday, there is a “Poetry Slam”. Describing these slams would be an act of futility: It truly needs to be seen to be believed. On Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays promising young actors and playwrights perform new, often unpublished work. Late Thursday a distinct flavor of jazz emanates from the dark café, while also offering open mics for poets and MCs. The Café has reached near legendary status, as it has been featured in films including a short documentary by Ray Santisteban, and continues to be the hub for all aspiring urban artists. Although far removed from Algarin’s living room, the nurturing spirit still incubates talent. And the waste is quickly cleaning itself up.

For information on scheduled performances and on the history of the cafe, go to www.nuyorican.org