Poet-As-Activist And Guest In Bethel Series

BETHEL — As its featured guest on June 27, Bethel Arts Junction will host a program by 1999 Woodstock National Slam Team Brett Axel. The evening will also include a short mini-feature with Connecticut native Mary Elizabeth Lang.

The Wednesday Night Poetry series, a popular weekly event in the former Bethel railroad station-turn-cooperative arts gallery, begins at 7:30 with an open mike session from 7:45 to 8:30 pm. Featured poets then read for about 30 minutes, and a poetry workshop follows. For the workshop, participants are encouraged to bring works of their own for sharing and constructive critiques.

A political and social activist, Mr Axel is known for his efforts to form bridges between academic and slam communities. He has put his words into action in efforts to close the US Army’s School of Assassins, gain a fair trial for Mumia Abu-Jamal, and an array of gay/lesbian/bi issues.

His work appears in countless anthologies and journals including. He has read coast to coast and appeared on television, radio, and in film both as a poet and as an activist.

Ms Lang will offer a short reading as well. She will then be the featured guest poet in the fall; she is scheduled for a full night of her own readings on September 26.

Program directors are Faith Vicinanza and Michael Seri. Admission is usually $1, although on certain nights, the hat may be passed when an out-of-state guest poet drives in to the area.

For information, contact Mrs Vicinanza at 426-3388, Mr Seri at 270-6202, or Cheryl Panosian at Bethel Arts Junction, 798-2193. Email may also be sent to Mrs Vicinanza at faith@hanover-press.com.