NPS 2007: Day Two

Another day, another schedule of packed-to-the-gills programming for the National Poetry Slam. It's extremely tough to pick just one or two things to highlight, but here're the events that most piqued our curiosity.

Daytime Programming

All daytime programs are FREE, so if you live or work downtown, consider popping in for one of these events. NPS won't be in Austin again for a very long time, so this is something of a one-time chance.

It might sound like a downer, but 11:30am at the Hideout is the Grief & Remembrance Open Mic. Word is that some of the most powerful stuff comes out at this particular event. Somber, sure, but also a chance to see some really great work.

At 1:15pm, head to Antone's for the Legends Showcase. Perhaps you're not familiar with Wammo, Kim Holzer, or Rives, but rest assured, these folks are some of the best slammers around. Check this one out of you want to see the pros in action.

3pm sees a tough choice between the African-American Open Mic at Antone's and the Jewish/Twelve Tribes Open Mic at the Hideout. Both are rumored to be outstanding events.

Bouts

First, we should mention that all venues are now selling wristbands that get you into all events except Individual and Team Finals at the Paramount Theatre. They're a mere $10 a pop, which pays for itself it you plan to attend two or more bouts or late night events. There's a limited number, so pick one up today if you want one!

As for those bouts, of course we like to champion our local heroes Team Neo-Soul (second place finishers last year), 9pm at Ego's, and Team Ego's, 9pm at Antone's. But if you're curious about who else is competing, here are a few that caught our eye: Team Hollywood, 7pm at Antone's; Team Honolulu, 9pm at the Hideout; Team Corpus Christi (they have a slam team! awesome!), 9pm at Dominican Joe; and Team Canuck Vancouver, 9pm at Ruta Maya.

Late Night Events

We can't pass up a chance to shine the spotlight on local artistic expressionist Da'Shade Moonbeam who is hosting Hip Hop HQ at Antone's at 11pm. This expert slammer and Team Ego's member definitely knows his way around hip hop. This is a great chance to check out an up-and-coming form of spoken word theatre.

NPS 2007
Thru Saturday
[National Poetry Slam Official Site]
[tickets]