(From Greg Bem) On Thursday, September 1st, we are hosting a large-scale group reading and performance at the event space Sole Repair on Capitol Hill in Seattle. The event will feature 22 writers of different backgrounds and disciplines, as well as a host of local publishers and presses, all under one roof.

Our theme for the night is “Silence & Communication,” and is most immediately inspired by the works of John Cage. Each presenter receives a period of two minutes to respond to the theme in whatever mode they see fit. Rather than use a stage and podium, our readers will form a circle around the audience. As the performance moves sequentially, the audience will shift in relation to each reader, creating a dynamic dance in perspective. Additional viewing space is available on the balcony for those who cannot fit inside the circle.

So why are we doing this? Well, we like to think of it as a celebration—a celebration of the vibrant literary community we have here in the Pacific Northwest, and also of the talented and diverse voices living within it. Our goal for the evening is simple: to edify, experiment, and have a great time.

The featured performers are: Joe Milutis, Matthew Simmons, M Thompson, Lisa Wells, Crystal Curry, Nico Vassilakis, Cristin Miller, Paul Nelson, Alex Bleecker, Jarret Middleton, Jeremy Springsteed, Laura Wachs, Robert Mittenthal, Greg Bem, Jason Conger, Willie Fitzgerald, Graham Isaac, Summer Robinson, Jesse Minkert, Ian Ettinger, Gregory Laynor, and Melanie Noel.

The following literary presses will be selling their latest issues: PageBoy, Hoarse, Pilot Books Old Stock, Wave Books, and Dark Coast Press.

The event costs $5.00 and is all-ages. The doors open at 7:00 pm for a meet-and-greet with performers and presses. The first performance begins at 7:30 with the first 11 features, followed by a 15 minute intermission. The second set begins shortly after, at around 8:15. Spirits will be available for purchase, and Sole Repair will remain open following the event for those who wish to continue their indulgence.

We encourage you to share this with anyone that might be interested in attending or letting people know about the event. If you have questions or comments (or want to volunteer) please email us at communication.silence@gmail.com. You can find us on Facebook as well by searching Silence & Communication. We look forward to seeing you there!

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