Poetry Jam was throwback to another era

When we entered Atchana's and signed in at the desk with Phaedra Robinson, little did we know that she was not only the greeter, but she was a great interpretive dancer. A bit later, she took to the stage at the DaRhydam Poetry Jam, and did her thing. There was poetry, music and dance.


It was open mic night on Wednesday and it reminded me of those beatnick movies from the 1960s -- very organic, genuine and entertaining. Kristoff Skalet, right, was the host and very patient while I held up the whole thing at one point to take photos. That's Oscar Fuentes, at left, who recited a street-type poetry.


Lela Lombardo and Lawrence Davis were part of the appreciative audience.


Delia Caderno, Mia Batlle and Charmille Walters, also enjoyed the performances. Charmille is artistic director of Rhythmic Rapture, who works with HEALhome, the charity who was the beneficiary of the open mic night. HealHome is a multifaceted art-intervention and community outreach program that explores the concept of home. They give a creative voice to the displaced and homeless population.


It was a classy, intimate event, at a great venue -- the pool deck at the Mutiny Hotel, all part of "Pure Imagination," The Mutiny's arts outreach program. There were drinks and Thai food served by Atchana's. The guests all enjoyed themselves, as well as the hotel guests who lounged around the pool and listened in.