If you enjoy writing, reading or listening to poetry, the St. Thomas-St. John Arts Council has an "Arts After Dark" event for you on Wednesday, March 22, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the Frenchtown Deli coffeeshop.
"The Poetry of Paradise" is an open poetry reading being presented by the Arts Council, a not-for-profit, membership-based organization which hosts monthly events focusing on the various arts at varying venues on St. Thomas and St. John. It's free and open to the public. However, a few simple rules apply to those wishing to read:
Participants may read their own work, the unpublished poetry of anyone else, or the published work of any Virgin Islands poet. Those wishing to read are asked to sign up ahead of time — by calling or faxing to 776-4812, e-mailing to jetsinger@viaccess.net or registering in person between 5:15 and 5:30 p.m. on the day of the event.
Poetry readers are welcome to arrange acoustic musical or drumming accompaniment. Each person will be allotted five minutes. After all who signed up have had the opportunity to read, a second round will follow.
Students and published poets are especially encouraged to take part. A table will be available for those with published volumes of poetry to exhibit them for sale — and perhaps autograph them for purchasers. The price should be clearly displayed on each book.
There will be complimentary finger food. Gourmet coffees, cold drinks and deli fare will be available for purchase on the premises.
