Applesauce Tea House breathes life back into the Flagstaff’s slam scene
Danielle Chavez - March 12th, 2008The creative and completive poetry readings known as “slams” were established in the mid-‘80s as a way to bring more attention to poetry readings.
“The poetry slam is a competition of local poets who come read original poems,” said John Cartier, a junior English major. Cartier was first a slam contestant and now co-hosts the event. According to slam participants, Cartier is responsible for revitalizing the poetry slam in Flagstaff.
“It’s a very welcoming and supporting community,” Cartier said. “No one will ever be made fun of.”
The competition involves two rounds where randomly selected audience members get the chance to judge and rank the poets. Cartier said the crowd will sometimes “boo” a score but it is done to keep the atmosphere fun and energized, not to embarrass anyone.
“Everyone has a different vibe,” said Ryan Brown, a freshman English major who also co-hosts this poetry slam. Brown heard about the slam from a friend and decided to showcase his poetry at this event. Brown said his own poetry is influenced by rappers and cites Saul Williams as influential to his work. As of right now, the majority of the contestants are college students; however, it is not uncommon to see teachers or poets passing through taking part of the poetry readings.
“In Flagstaff the stereotypes are being broken apart,” Brown said. “Every poet brings their very best every week.” Although Brown’s works are influenced by the rap genre, the other poets bring their own influences which make this poetry slam a unique blend of what Flagstaff poets have to offer.
“You get to hear a lot of different styles,” said Dana Sakowicz, the score keeper for this program. She said the judging tends to not be so serious and is done with good humor.
“It’s a really fun crowd,” Sakowicz said. “It’s a good way for local artists to express themselves.”
Once a poet wins the competition determined by the audience, they may showcase their talents with a “victory poem.” Although Sakowicz says prizes are not typically given out, they have been known to give away ‘80s vinyl. The slam also features more notable poets such as Jonathan Standifird in addition to the student competitors.
“We have a lot of amazing local poets that not a lot of people know about,” Cartier said.
On March 26, the poetry slam will have what they call a “Slamily.” Votes from this competition will determine the representatives for a Flagstaff slam team that will compete in a regional slam and possibly a national competition in August.
Anyone is welcome to sign up and attend the poetry slam on Wednesday nights. There is a $5 cover charge. Sign ups for the competition start at 6:30 p.m. at the Applesauce Tea House with the show starting at 7 p.m.