Patti Smith, along with poets Terrance Hayes and Elizabeth Acevedo, will participate in the Dodge Poetry Festival in Newark from October 15 to 17. The festival will feature readings, writing workshops, and a free family day, showcasing a total of 139 poets and 70 events at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center and nearby locations.
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Presented by the Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation and NJPAC, the three-day event caters to both poetry enthusiasts and general audiences. Patti Smith, a pivotal figure in the punk movement, will deliver her performance titled "Songs and Stories" on October 16 at 8 p.m. at NJPAC's Prudential Hall.
On October 17, alumni from HBO's "Def Poetry Jam" will perform in honor of Abiodun Oyewole, a founding member of The Last Poets. This event is scheduled for 5 p.m. in NJPAC's Victoria Theater and will feature artists such as D.Cross, Kraal “Kayo” Charles, and Bonafide Rojas. Newark Mayor Ras Baraka is also expected to attend.
Other notable poets participating include Tyehimba Jess, Arthur Sze, Aja Monet, Jericho Brown, and Naomi Shihab Nye. Additionally, a free family event will be held on October 17 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in NJPAC's Chambers Plaza, featuring poetry readings, face painting, and a children's obstacle course. Later that day, filmmaker and author Nelson George will host “Do the Write Thing,” a discussion and multimedia event at 8 p.m.
A pop-up bookstore and book signings are among the activities planned throughout the festival. One-day and three-day passes can be purchased at njpac.org, although separate tickets are required for Smith’s performance, the Def Poetry Reunion, and the “Do the Write Thing” event.