Readin’ N Rhythm* is a new concert series blending musical performances, readings, comedy and visual art with community service. We’ve found that despite how much people love to read, actual readings are stuffy and pretentious. We’ve also found that here in Brooklyn, an area inundated with “indie” bands, a typical show is predictable and boring. It’s time for something new, original, weird and collaborative; modern artists should not be trapped in the traditional modes of live expression.
Our main mission with RnR is to further support and connect these communities of artists, to break down stereotypes that keep them from collaborating, to demonstrate how we can inspire one another and to generally celebrate the connection between these different types of art. We’re essentially all doing the same thing, trying to express ourselves creatively, reach out from this strange space inside of us to connect with other people. Even though we’re doing this in separate languages, the motivations and experiences end up being quite similar. We believe great things come from working together.
Each event also serves as a book drive for ReadThis, a local, volunteer-based organization that raises money and books for schools in need. Bring anything from that ABC book you loved as a four-year-old to the dystopian novels that changed your life as a 12-year-old to the trashy, fun vampire stuff you read in high school (or are still reading now). Readin’ N Rhythm strives to demonstrate how the arts can benefit all aspects of our community and to spread the love of art to our youth.
All events are no cover but donations for performers are strongly encouraged (even just a dollar helps!). Check out Upcoming Shows for info on our next event. If you’re interested in performing or contributing in some way to the series, please contact creators Becky and Dave Fine-Firesheets at readinnrhythm@gmail.com.
*The name of the series was inspired by Duke Ellington’s classic song “Rockin’ N Rhythm.”
