Newark Celebrates Amiri Baraka’s 75th Birthday With A Week’s Worth of Festivities

Posted by D.A. Gutierrez in Amiri Baraka, Jazz Events, Poetry Events

October 2nd, 2009   No Comments »

Poet Amiri Baraka performs “The Lullaby of Avon Avenue” at Skippers in Newark, NJ

Last week while we were attending Frank Noviello’s show at Skippers, we were overwhelmed & surprised to have the opportunity to watch legendary poet, Amiri Baraka recite “The Lullaby of Avon Avenue”, a poetic tribute to jazz great and Newark native, Sarah Vaughan. See video above.

In celebration of Mr. Baraka’s 75th birthday, Newark residents are kicking off a week’s worth of celebrations beginning with a jazz concert at Bethany Baptist Church.

Amiri Baraka’s 75th Birthday Events
1) Saturday, October 3, 2009, 6pm to 8pm, Free Admission
Jazz Vespers are honoring Mr. Baraka with a jazz concert at:
Bethany Baptist Church
275 West Market St., Newark, NJ
featuring Jazz pianist and composer, Randy Weston.

2) Tuesday, October 6, 2009, 6pm to 8pm, Free Admission
October Opening for exhibit of Mr. Baraka’s drawings at:
Aljira Center for Contemporary Art
591 Broad St., Newark, NJ
Admission is free.

3) Wednesday, October 7, 2009, 7pm to 11pm, $50 per person
Birthday jam at:
WISOMMM Cultural Center
15 James St., Newark, NJ
Friends and family salute Amiri Baraka with musical and artistic tributes. Entry includes a light buffet, live entertainment and complimentary wine.

4) Thursday, October 8, 2009, 5:30pm to 8pm, Free Admission
“Baraka Book and Birthday Bash,” hosted by the:
Newark Public Library
5 Washington St., Newark, NJ
There will be readings by up and coming poets, a short film screening and birthday cake for everyone.

5) Friday, October 9, 6pm to 9pm, Free Admission
A symposium on “The Political Evolution of Amiri Baraka” will be held at:
Central High School Auditorium
246 18th Ave., Newark, NJ
Panelists will include Amina Baraka, Komozi Woodard and Felipe Luciano; moderated by Al-Tariq Shabazz.

For more information about any of the above events, call 973-698-9504 or visit AmiriB75.com