PROVIDENCE, RI—On Sunday, February 4, 2018, at 1:30 PM the 23rd Annual Langston Hughes Community Poetry Reading is being held at the Providence Public Library. This annual celebration of the dynamic poems of our national icon, Langston Hughes, will recognize his 116th birthday. The community poetry reading is an opportunity for young and old to learn about, listen to and witness the brilliance of Langston Hughes as an outstanding poet and writer of the Harlem Renaissance. Each year people from the city and other communities participate by reading- and often performing – selected poems from Hughes’ extensive collection of work.

The event is FREE and OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. It is an afternoon of sheer enjoyment. Please join us for an afternoon of learning, sharing, and great fun!

The Langston Hughes Community Poetry Reading features special guest readers, community readers, scholarly commentary, and music. Readers will include Ricardo Pitts-Wiley distinguished Rhode Island actor, playwright, musician and performer, and youth participants from AS220 and Providence schools. Our scholar’s comments will be presented by Provost Dr. Renèe T. White from Wheaton College. Music for the afternoon is provided by Daniel Ian Smith, accompanied by his celebrated jazz trio.

We encourage all to bring family and friends. Join us on Sunday, February 4, 2018 at 1:30 PM in the third floor auditorium of the Providence Public Library located at 150 Empire Street in Providence. This entrance will be accessible by 1:00pm.
For more information, email: lhughescp2017@gmail.com.