Art Defined Productions is excited to announce a milestone event celebrating 15 years of Poetic Affair—a monthly spoken word and performance series that has redefined the artistic landscape of the Bronx. Now entering its 15th year, this landmark celebration underscores our ongoing commitment to showcasing fresh, diverse voices while honoring a rich cultural heritage.

A New Chapter in Bronx Artistic Expression:
Founded in 2010, Poetic Affair has grown into a dynamic platform where creativity and community converge. Throughout its history, the event has provided a vital space for both emerging and established artists—especially those from underrepresented communities—to express their stories and visions. With more than 180 events and over 200 featured performers, Poetic Affair has evolved into an influential movement that marries artistic expression with social activism.

Innovating in the Face of Challenge:
The journey has not been without hurdles. In response to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Art Defined Productions pivoted quickly by moving Poetic Affair online. This digital transformation not only maintained the essence of our live events through interactive Q&A sessions and virtual open mics but also expanded our reach nationwide, proving that community and creativity can thrive even during times of global disruption.

The 15th-Anniversary Celebration, What to Expect:
The upcoming anniversary event is set to be a showcase of innovation and legacy. Scheduled for every third Wednesday of the month from 8:00 PM to 10:30 PM at Lehman Stages (Lehman College), the evening will feature:

Headlining Performance: An electrifying set by acclaimed poet Danny Love, whose work challenges and inspires with themes of identity and resilience.

Open Mic Spotlight: A curated segment inviting both seasoned voices and first timers to contribute their unique narratives.

Multimedia Retrospective: A visual and auditory journey through 15 years of Poetic Affair, featuring archival footage, artist testimonials, and highlights from our digital era.

Interactive Panel Discussion: Post-show conversations where community members can engage with artists and organizers to explore how art fosters empowerment and drives change.

Deep Roots in Community Collaboration:
At its core, Poetic Affair remains a celebration of community. Our longstanding partnerships with institutions like Lehman College, Bronx Community College, and the Bronx Council on the Arts ensure that every event is accessible and reflective of local interests. By engaging with neighborhood schools and youth programs, we continue to nurture the next generation of creative leaders and storytellers.

Looking Forward:
As we honor a storied past, Art Defined Productions is also setting its sights on the future. Plans are already underway to integrate hybrid programming that blends live and virtual experiences, launch mentorship initiatives pairing veteran artists with emerging talent, and expand our digital outreach to further amplify Bronx voices.

Event Details:
What: Poetic Affair 15th-Anniversary Celebration
When: Every Third Wednesday | 8:00 PM – 10:30 PM
Where: Lehman Stages (Lehman College), Bronx, NY
Admission: Free (Registration via Eventbrite required)

For more information on Poetic Affair and Art Defined Productions, or to arrange interviews and media coverage, please contact Amira Mustapha at [email protected] or (646) 288-1584.

Celebrate with us as we mark 15 years of powerful storytelling and look ahead to a future where every voice has a platform.