Whisper & Shout

Experience a diverse open mic with artists from all backgrounds in a positive and inspiring atmosphere. Peoria’s Open Mic for Poetry is held on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month, hosted by Ryan Lowry with DJ Yvaine Washington.

It is truly astounding what talented locally based poets that one will hear on any given night. Each night the open mic also features a popular regionally known poet. Poets from as far away as Maryland, Missouri and Florida have graced the stage. Regardless of a poet’s level of experience, everyone is welcome to share his or her work. Join us on the 2nd floor, in the Preston Jackson Gallery.

Audiences experience more than just someone reading from a page. Poets often memorize the piece and perform it as in a stage play. These are often soul-baring performances that might make you weep or laugh out loud. One thing is for certain, this is an entertaining and stimulating event.

Featured Poet: Jeronimo Speaks
Jeronimo Speaks was born and raised in the inner-city projects of Chicago. It was there that Jeronimo was introduced to freestyle and battle rapping. Since creating his first spoken word pieces in 2011, Jeronimo has released three Spoken Word EP’s. Jeronimo has earned prestigious awards from Spoken Word Magazine, P.O.E.T Organization, Midwest Urban Music Awards and Safe & Sound. He co-created Solace Souls Sundays Open Mic held at Quarry Event Space Center nominated for National Open Mic of the Year due to sold-out shows, free events and their work to feed and clothe the less fortunate. A guest and host of numerous Chicago radio and TV programs, Jeronimo has performed throughout the country, including selling out the 300 seat I.C.E. Theater promoting his 2nd cd release, “Psalms of the Streets”.