Experience a diverse open mic with artists from all backgrounds in a positive and inspiring atmosphere. Peoria’s Open Mic for Poetry is held on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month, hosted by Ryan Lowry with DJ Yvaine Washington.

It is truly astounding what talented locally based poets that one will hear on any given night. Each night the open mic also features a popular regionally known poet. Poets from as far away as Maryland, Missouri and Florida have graced the stage. Regardless of a poet’s level of experience, everyone is welcome to share his or her work. Join us on the 2nd floor, in the Preston Jackson Gallery.

Audiences experience more than just someone reading from a page. Poets often memorize the piece and perform it as in a stage play. These are often soul-baring performances that might make you weep or laugh out loud. One thing is for certain, this is an entertaining and stimulating event.

Featured Poet: Tiara Nicole
Spoken word artist and author Tiara Nicole of Kansas City, Missouri was Kansas City’s People Choice Award winner for Best Spoken Word Artist in 2021. She is an author of two books: “Tell My Son, ‘Thank You’” (a collection of poems she has performed on stage) and “Bittersweet 16 Lost Soul….Naive Girl” (a project she put together after experiencing sexual assault). When Tiara is not performing, she works as a Program Manager for Poetry for Personal Power. As an advocate for mental health Tiara believes that art in its many facets can change the world and the way mental health recovery viewed.