Category: Sites Scenes & Words

  • Nuyorican Poets Cafe

    By Carla D. Robinson

    Willie Perdomo, Former Nuyorican Grand Slam Champ, © 2002 RLP Ventures, LLC
    Willie Perdomo, Former Nuyorican Grand Slam Champ, © 2002 RLP Ventures, LLC

    It’s hard to say exactly what happened that day in 1974 when a group of artists – calling themselves Nuyoricans in recognition of their cultural mélange as Puerto Rican New Yorkers – founded the Nuyorican Poets Café. In the movie Pinero, poet Miguel Algarin (immortalized by Giancarlo Esposito) grows weary of the crew crowding his living room and swiftly unveils a storefront space as a new place for everyone to create and perform. In reality, the group’s official founding is more elusive.

    While the colorful, white-haired Algarin is widely acknowledged as having started it all, he doesn’t take such credit. Instead, the Rutgers University professor cites himself as only one of the founders of the Nuyorican, along with close friend Miguel Pinero, the fascinating and puzzling subject of the eponymous film, poet Lucky Cienfuegos, and others. Whatever led to the opening of the Nuyorican’s original doors on East Sixth Street may remain forever shrouded in myth, but what keeps its doors open at 236 East 3rd Street (its location since 1980) is no mystery.

    The Nuyorican’s Lower Eastside neighborhood, dubbed Loisiada – “the community” – by its Spanish speaking residents, is a mixture of ethnicities from Puerto Rican to Polish, and the Nuyorican seeks to provide a place where such people can create work that illuminates their experiences. As Lois Griffith, co-director and a founding poet of the Nuyorican once wrote, “The journey from the street corner to the page is full of potholes.” The Nuyorican exists to ease the bumpiness of the road. The Café has helped the careers of Ntozake Shange, Willie Perdomo, and Paul Beatty, to name a few.

    The organization’s signature events attract international audiences. Its Open Room, where anyone can perform, was “the first idea,” Algarin says in his introduction to Aloud: Voices from the Nuyorican Poets Café. “And from this beginning was derived the complex programming that now goes on at the Nuyorican Poets Café.” The spirit of the Open Room is indicative of the Nuyorican, providing an “open, generous, embracing attitude” toward performers, in the hope of nurturing their work.

    Another staple at the Nuyorican is the Slam, a high-octane spoken word competition. Some are critical of the concept. Sonia Sanchez questions the humanity of Slams and once said in an interview, “We should not be on some auction block somewhere selling our poetry in that fashion.” But Algarin posits that the Slam is a product of ancient traditions from the Puerto Rican El Trovador to Greek mythology or the African griot. Arguably, Slams have helped bring poetry back to the forefront of American consciousness.

    In addition to the Open Room and Slams, the Café presents work by new and established playwrights, offers events specifically designed for youth and women, hosts concerts, and holds Fifth Night, a screenplay reading and short film series. For more information on the Nuyorican Poets Café, visit www.nuyorican.org. For a sample of the poetry that has emerged from the Café, read Aloud. Check out Action: The Nuyorican Poets Café Theater Festival to read plays and performance pieces.M

    April 2002

  • Converse Shines in Philly

    By Virginia D. Hudson

    The city of brotherly love showed love to thousands of attendees at this year’s annual all-star weekend. From February 8-10th basketball fans, celebrities and NBA basketball players converged on Philadelphia filling restaurants and clubs throughout the historic city.

    While the main premise was to watch the game, it wasn’t difficult to notice the assortment of parties from major companies like, Nike and Converse.

    This year’s all-star weekend also marked basketball legend, Julius “Dr. J” Irving’s return to his Philadelphia 76er roots. It was a coming out moment of sorts – to re-introduce the public to Converse, the sneaker that became synonymous with Irving.

    The new re-emerged Converse (in stores now) used some of the same old magic, but with a mix of millennium attitude to launch the brand and a new marketing campaign called, shine.

    “It’s about being in the zone,” says Jack Boys, CEO of Converse. “It’s about not giving up; it’s about the self-determination and belief in one’s self that help you get around any obstacles you encounter.”

    There were no MJ or Allen Iverson sightings, but there were several hundred members of the press along with Irving at Circa, an upscale spot on Restaurant Row in downtown Philadelphia to usher in the resurrected Converse brand. Feet tapped, heads bobbed and bodies shook as deejay Biz Markie spun a mix of neo-soul, hip-hop and old school tunes.

    Equally impressive was an appearance by neo-soul and Grammy-nominated singer India.Arie. Arie along with her band performed three songs off of her hit album, Acoustic Soul, to an appreciative crowd. “I just love her sound,” said an attendee. The stylist didn’t miss a beat. To show her gratitude and in keeping with her love and peace mantra, she handed out flowers to the audience. M

    March 2002

  • How One Private Collection Built a Public Institution

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  • The Russian Vodka Room

    Russian Vodka Room
    265 West 52nd Street
    (Btwn Bway and 8th Ave)
    NY, NY
    (212) 307-5835

    By Kevin Shay

    The name of this establishment really says it all:

    Russian: Authentically so, judging from the accents of the management, the clientele, and the waitstaff (who occasionally seem to have been indulging in their own wares — an observation which is, of course, unrelated to their nationality).

    Vodka: Every brand you’ve ever heard of and plenty you haven’t, including all the more obscure flavored variations of Stoli, Absolut, et al.

    Room: I don’t know whether or not an intimate piano-lounge vibe is considered Russian, but it’s an eminently welcoming atmosphere in which to unwind after work, a fact understood by the business-suited crowd that gathers for the half-price Happy Hour.

    Try the infused vodka, available in economical carafes and prepared in-house with ingredients from fruity (cranberry, raspberry) to spicy (garlic, dill), albeit with low-quality vodka. Then sample one of the premium brands (but expect to pay a premium price). Wash it down (Russians wash vodka down with food, not vice versa) with something from the extensive menu of tasty, salty Russian specialties. Then sit back and listen to the piano, and just be grateful it’s not a balalaika. M

    November 1999

  • Swimming with the Sharks

    Shark Bar
    307 Amsterdam Ave.
    (Btwn 73rd and 74th Sts)
    NY, NY
    (212) 874-8500

    By William Mills

    On any night NYC’s Shark Bar is crammed with young professionals of color, Hip-Hop entrepreneurs, West Side residents and attractive singles sipping gin and juice

    and trying to restore sanity after a day battling “the man.” The restaurant’s dark hues, soft lights, beautiful charcoal etches and black and white photographs culminate in a definition of cool that’s a mix of down home formality and urban sensibility. The restaurant offers a variety of Southern favorites and prompt and friendly service. With ample space, the restaurant section is excellent for people watching, relaxing and dining intimately with one or more friends. Known for its camaraderie, the Shark Bar is an optimal place for getting your “Mack on.” But as with cruising any body of water for a mate, swimming in the singles’ world requires some rules.

    1. Never swim alone.

    For a guy, it’s OK to be single, but never look lonely. Lonely could be easily mistaken for desperate. Always hit the bar with a good friend, preferably someone who could have fun at a ballpoint pen convention. Also, women have a tendency to be accompanied by friends. Take their lead. If you and your sidekick see two women and you’re attracted to one, the possibility of a conversation involving four eliminates some of the pressure found in a one on one.

    2. Dress for the water.

    OK this is tricky. Since I don’t have the time or disposable income to buy Dolce & Gabana or Geoffrey Beane, I usually enter the water with jeans, a pressed shirt and nice shoes. I might shave. The advantage to this is that a woman sees exactly what she’s getting. I think of it as the rugged, non-bothered, I’ll-dress-up-when-we-have-more-of-a-commitment look. But there’s a hazard in this approach. It’s often perceived as the “broke” look. The Shark Bar can be intimidating on this front, so if you are hard on the make you might want to spruce up.

    3. Have your talk ready.

    This area is where you can make up for breaking the other two rules. If stupid things tend to fall out of your mouth, you’ll find yourself bobbing in the water alone. To catch the hip, sultry-voiced, woman of your dreams (as well as any other), be clear about what you want and advertise that truth. While it’s your prerogative to pretend you’re one thing in order to get something else, it makes for rough seas later. If you are ignored, battered or bruised by the young sapphire you desire, remember half of this game is confidence. It’s just like swimming; you have to relax.

    The Shark Bar is a staple in the Manhattan social world. It’s a great place for intimacy and good conversation on several levels beside “the Mack”. There isn’t an out of town guest or family member I wouldn’t wine and dine there. OK, maybe my friend Tony from Florida. M

    September 1999

  • 4 Scene, 4 You, 4 Love (August 31, 1999 – S.O.B.’s, NY, NY)

    By David Dodson

    Congrats to Julie Oh and staff over at 4 Scene on their third showcase. The event proved that some people still roll and rock for love. When 4 Scene popped up last year, it promised to provide a space where neo-soul acts would receive the spotlight they rightfully deserve. The first show featuring Corey Glover, Olu and Daniella Cotton, received rave reviews. A few months thereafter, 4 Scene’s second show spotlighted Martin Luther, Jeni Fujita and Grenique. While it was a wonderful night of talent that provided exactly what the promoters promised, something was missing. The mood wasn’t quite right.

    4 Scene’s Act III had a totally different vibe. Walking in there was a different air. People were mingling, smiling, conversing and laughter could be heard in various directions. muMs stepped on stage and talked to the crowd, in a way only he could do, preparing them for the “truth” that was to proceed. Carl Hannock Rux gave an amazingly energetic performance attacking the crowd with words, as they grooved to music smoothly churned out by his band and the beautiful harmonies of his backup singers. The crowd was into it and DJ Kool Marv kept them going between sets, almost making you forget you were waiting for the next performer to appear.

    When Amel took the stage, she immediately reminded the crowd why they liked her. Everyone was in the groove as she played new song after new song, making the crowd feel like they knew all the words. The musicians were having a great time as songs extended into little jams sessions that allowed the crowd to just dance. “Remember when people used to dance,” Amel said.

    Overall, 4 Scene’s August showcase was a quality event that allowed everyone to shine from those on stage to those in the crowd. For anyone looking to hear great music in a comfortable setting, 4 Scene’s next event is a must. For more information check out their web site at www.4scene.com. M

    September 1999

  • A Harlem Renaissance Continued

    By Elizabeth McMillan

    The Studio Museum in Harlem has devoted over 30 years to bringing gifted emerging artists of African descent the resources and the recognition they deserve. Opened in 1968 as a studio and exhibition space on 125th street in New York City, the Museum has since evolved into an active and vital artistic institution offering a variety of valuable services to the community.

    The Museum has built an impressive permanent collection of more than 1,600 objects spanning all types of media by such artists as Romare Bearden, Elizabeth Catlett, Jacob Lawrence, and Faith Ringgold. And in celebration of their 30th anniversary, exhibiting through October 3, 1999 is Selected Works from the Permanent Collection showcasing the Museum’s impressive 20th century art collection and From the Studio: Artists-In-Residence, 1998-1999 featuring three installations by each of this year’s program artists.

    SMH has also played a significant role in the art community by serving as the primary training ground for African-American museum professionals and artists. But it’s their education and public programming that’s an essential component to their mission. The Cooperative School Program places professional artists in Harlem schools to serve as instructors, the Enhanced Access Program provides free and expanded hours to thousands of school children and economically disadvantaged families and the Vital Expressions in American Art series hosts a variety of family-oriented activities. Designed to coincide with each exhibit, these programs help to enhance the exploration of broader cultural and social themes.

    Whether you’re viewing the art or participating in their rich activities, The Studio Museum in Harlem gives everyone an opportunity to appreciate the culture that artists of African descent have brought to the world. For more information, visit the museum’s website at www.studiomuseuminharlem.org. M

    August 1999

  • A Harlem Renaissance Continued

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  • Art for Art’s Sake

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  • Dining at the Intersection of 42nd and Soul

    Soul Cafe
    444 West 42nd Street
    (Btwn 9th & 10th Aves)
    NY, NY 10036
    (212) 244-7685

    By Ramona L. Prioleau

    Since the Soul Café opened its doors in 1996, the alluring aromas of its fine cuisine and electric atmosphere have beckoned many to venture west of 8th Avenue. This chic midtown restaurant is great for pre-theater dinner, Sunday brunch or a nice repast after a long day. Soul features a spacious bar area, perfect for cocktails before dinner and toasting the close of a successful business deal. After work and on the weekends, Soul pulses with the energy of its stylish clientele who mix, mingle and dine to R&B tunes that flow steadily from Soul’s sound system.

    Soul serves healthy portions of Southern/Caribbean dishes with an upscale flair. Its flavorful meals, prepared with just the right amount of spices, do not sacrifice substance for the sake of decorativeness. The roasted vegetables with a side of macaroni are a delightful combination for those seeking a filling yet healthy treat. For the carnivorous sort, Soul’s hearty serving of ribs with a side of macaroni and collard greens hit the spot.

    Soul’s pleasant and knowledgeable staff handles groups large and small with a consistent level of professionalism. In fact, Soul’s staff seems to have a particular knack for catering to high-maintenance patrons with style, grace and aplomb (Trust me on this. I’m a charter member of the high-maintenance posse).

    Warm lighting, large comfy chairs and walls adorned with African-American art, transform Soul’s spacious confines into a handsome yet classy den. During the summer months, sidewalk seating is also available adding a Euro vibe to the soul food experience. Since each meal is individually prepared, leave yourself adequate time to wine and dine at this snazzy midtown establishment. M

    June 1999

  • Lounging On East 10th Street-NOT!

    Tenth Street Lounge
    212 East 10 Street
    (Btwn 1st & 2nd Aves)
    NY, NY 10003
    (212) 473-5252

    By Gabria Fischer

    Tenth Street Lounge is not a place to lounge. This establishment has no qualms charging a cover on weekend nights for little more than a chance to soak in the lack of atmosphere. In fact, the stiff ambiance is more reminiscent of a funeral home than an East Village hangout.

    The high ceilings and candle-lined ledges manage to add warmth to the environment, but not to the experience. The overpriced drinks and assuming staff transform the impressive open space into a gloomy and oppressive retreat. Table service is readily available, but the pay-per-round policy makes the delivery of drinks more pressure-filled than it need be. The entrance is difficult to spot from the street. So, if you happen to miss it on your first pass, you might want to keep walking. This joint is “B” list at best. M

    June 1999

  • The Cinque: 30 Years of Support to Black Artists

    Cinque GalleryBy Anne Collins Smith

    1999 marks a very special year for the Cinque Gallery. It celebrates 30 years of service to the arts community.

    Founded by celebrated artists Romare Bearden, Ernest Crichlow and Norman Lewis, the Cinque Gallery is dedicated to advancing the careers of African American artists through numerous exhibitions and programs.

    The idea of a gallery to support and encourage African American artists wasn’t entirely new to Bearden, Crichlow and Lewis. The Cinque founders were given similar opportunities. Augusta Savage, a sculptor and teacher, influenced these artists through her School of Arts and Crafts and through the Harlem Community Arts Center in the 1930’s and 40’s.

    Another place of support for the young black artists was the 306 West 141st Street studios of dancer Ad Bates, painter Charles Alston and sculptor Henry “Mike” Bannarn. “306” served as a gathering place where artists of all disciplines could meet and discuss their artistic endeavors. It is also where Bearden and Jacob Lawrence were given their first exhibitions. In addition, Spiral, a politically active artists group active in the 1960’s and 70’s influenced the Cinque founders.

    The Cinque Gallery continues the support for black artists and the activism of Augusta Savage, 306 and Spiral. The Cinque, which first opened its doors at the Joseph Papp Public Theater in 1969, is currently located in SoHo in the heart of New York’s thriving and energetic art market. To find out more about the Cinque and the special programming for its 30th Anniversary, visit or contact the gallery at 560 Broadway, Suite 504, New York, NY 10012, 212-966-3464. M

    June 1999