By Qhama Dayile
It takes place in one of the most unique venues around, a glass
tunnel above the road. On a night it features more performers than any
other session in Cape Town. What is it? UNCUT Poetry. It has been running irregularly for the past 3 yrs. It was created out of a need for poetry sessions that were not just a side track to a hip-hop gig. It was also formed with the aim of debunking the stupendous myth that alleges that poetry sessions are simply an over-celebrated gathering of escapist romantics lamenting over their lost loves.
UNCUT, as it’s popularly known, has dealt with issues from identity, crime, politics and may others that are pertinent to the youth today. Although UNCUT does not necessarily dictate or share views with the artists who perform at the gig, it has a collective objective which has to do with Progressive Critical Thinking, that is, looking deeper into how the dynamics of our society affect us. But not questioning for the sake of questioning, also looking for answers. The aim is to present this mindset not as once-upon-a-night event, but as a way of
life.
So much of the above is entrenched in the UNCUT philosophy that it moulded
it into more than just a poetry session. An example of this is a part of the session called "OFF THE MIC". The thinking behind this is simple: not everyone who comes to a session is a performer, but EVERYBODY has something to say.
It is during “OFF THE MIC” that anybody wishing to express their thoughts as per theme gets a chance to do so. It is this and other elements that continue to draw crowds to the session for a unique experience in raw, soul-stirring, street level spoken thought.
The UNCUT sessions, which start at 5pm, will take place at The Brige on the CPUT Cape Town campus on Tenant Street this Friday (14 September 2007). For more information call (076) 633 7239.
Come experience cutting-edge poetry like no other!
[Ed's note: If there is anything exciting and culturally relevant that is taking place in your hometown, send some info to the publisher at nickk@encoremag.co.za]
1 comment:
Wow! "Uncut Poetry for the Masses" turned out to be a great night, the venue was well thought out- unique, just like the people who attended it. The poets were diverse but there words were real to their audience and society as a whole, the experience opened me up to the hidden talents, beliefs and cultures of our Cape Town youth. It was my first time going to "Uncut" but please, let's do it again!!
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