Da Poetry Lounge

Yes!

Da Poetry Lounge is an open mic venue in the heart of Los Angeles where artists from all over Southern California are encouraged to come and share their art form three minutes at a time. Although the majority of artists that perform are spoken word poets there is usually an occasional singer, dancer, comedian, etc. Da Poetry Lounge is hosted every Tuesday evening from 9PM to midnight inside the Greenway Court Theatre located on Fairfax Ave. This place is phenomenal if one is seeking performing arts or merely something to do with their nightlife. Everything about DPL, as it is often referred to, makes one believe that they are home. Its main attributes are why it has become not only the longest running poetry venue in Southern California, but also the most well-​known.
As previously stated, despite the name, DPL is home to many different types of art. The variety that is presents makes it virtually impossible for one to not enjoy or relate to something throughout the course of the evening. The diversity that Da Poetry Lounge has to offer is evident from the moment one makes line as one encounters faces coming from every race; each person distinct from its neighbor in shape, attire, jewelry, scent, etc. Aside from physical appearance, it is quickly evident that each person that walks through the doors of the theatre has such a dynamic and unique past. As artists get up, one is left in awe at the range of topics that are discussed whether its love, heartbreak, parents, religion, death, school, or even experiences such as rape. Not only does DPL bring people who contrast together, it does so with an extraordinary level of quality. Da Lounge is open mic, yet very often it brings in a professional poet to feature. On these nights, artists who sign up for the open mic will begin the evening, but before going on the usual 5 minute intermission that splits the night up, the featured poet will be allowed to perform several pieces of his/​her choice for 15 – 20 minutes. Often times these poets are published, full-​time artists who dedicate their livelihood solely to poetry. The audience is typically always left inspired and in an uproar. Aside from features, DPL is also the home to several local and amazingly talented artists whom they call «house poets». House poets get priority as far as signing up for open mic which assures the audience that quality work will be presented. The music provided by DJ Brutha Gimel as one enters and exits the lounge as well as in between poems keeps the night flowing very smoothly. Not only this, but his song choice is always impeccable. DPL welcomes anyone who is willing to listen or share; thankfully, the vast majority of people who do this bring their best work, making Da Lounge a venue that is known for being the crème de la crème in every manner.
The most important aspect of Da Lounge is how welcoming it is and how fast it is to feel comfortable. Both hosts, Shihan VanClief and Natalie Patterson, are enthusiastic and very comical. They speak in a relaxed manner and are known to share small anecdotes throughout the night in regards to their personal life. They both have an infectious charisma that reveals their love and passion for poetry. They explain the rules of the venue, and do so in a jokingly matter which makes one feel at ease while still understanding the importance of respect for everyone present. In between poets, Shihan and Brutha Gimel exchange jokes openly to relieve some of the tension created by poems or simply just share a chuckle with the crowd. The beauty of DPL truly lies in understanding how much of an impact it has on those that attend. Many make comparisons to how much it feels like a church, because anyone is free to express themselves and if needed lament publically while not being judged for even an instant. The importance of community, love, and acceptance is a motif that is found in every corner of DPL as encouraging words, snaps, and/​or claps are given to those who display their vulnerability on stage. House poet, Fisseha Moges, worded this perfectly in a poem of his as he said, «I have said things in this room that I would deliberately sugarcoated in a prayer.» It is safe to say that one walks out of Da Poetry Lounge with a much better understanding of what camaraderie looks and feels like.
DPL provides everyone an evening that is ensured to have variety, quality, and comfort within the walls of their theatre. Without a doubt, Da Poetry Lounge serves as much more than just a poetry venue. It is certainly a place that one ought to visit at least once if they are in the area, as it is inexplicable to properly describe all that happens within those few hours.

4÷12÷11 was my first night here and the poets were all so talented, the dj was awesome… bought his mix tape, this will differently be my new hang out Tuesday spot

Oh good times! This spot is at the back corner of Fairfax High and it has got to be one of the dopest, smallest poetry lounges. I used to go here every week in college. There are random people that go up to an open mic & recite spoken word.
Its dope cause you see raw talent at its best. Vulnerable, witty and intense poetry. Some of the people that go through this spot end up competing on Def Jam and other programs.
Gotta get there early or else you wont get a seat. Its like a small little theater but if you do get in. its a cozy spot to hear poetry.