Inspired by Jacqueline Woodson’s novel Another Brooklyn (the 2018 One Book, One Philadelphia selection), January’s rent party theme is Black Girl Magic and will include sets by Philadelphia Youth Poet Laureate Husnaa Hashim and visiting performance artist Gabrielle Civil. This evening’s readings and music will connect and celebrate black girl magic in art across centuries, from the poetry of Phillis Wheatley, whose life and work illustrates both the power and the pitfalls of her place role in society, to Jacqueline Woodson’s lyrical portrait of four friends coming of age in a transitional urban landscape, to the creative visions of local artists today.

Yolanda Wisher’s Rent Party at the Rosenbach

The tradition of the rent party dates back to the Harlem Renaissance, when communal gatherings of artists and musicians fed the outpouring of blues, jazz, and poetry for which this period is known. Hosted by poet Yolanda Wisher, this quarterly series celebrates the literary past with readings by contemporary poets and music performed by her band, the Afroeaters. Seating is limited; advance registration is strongly recommended.

Performers

Gabrielle Civil (Visiting Performance Artist)

Sirlance Gamble (Percussion)

Husnaa Hashim (2017-2018 Youth Poet Laureate of Philadelphia)

Carol Moog (Harmonica)

Jaléssa Mungin (Poet)

Mark Palacio (Double bass)

Yolanda Wisher (Curator, Poet, Vocalist)