Petals and Thorns: A Spoken Word Journey

Follow the journey of Black Portland teens in an intensive writing and spoken word camp, as they go from novice writers to expressive poets.

The brainchild of first-time filmmaker La Toya A. Hampton, MSW aka The Poet Lady Rose, and commissioned by Portland Playhouse as part of their Return to Wonderland 2022 short film festival, this story follows the experience of a group of Black Portland teens—Nathaniel, Aaliyah, Alyssa and Olivia—in a 1-week intensive writing and spoken word camp. Follow their journey as they go from novice writers to creating their own poetry, culminating in their triumphant first public performance.

Come for the film screening. Stay for the poetry show! Join The Poet Lady Rose and Friends, for an awesome show of literary and performance talent, ranging from teen up-and-comers to seasoned veteran local faves following the screening.

Fundraiser Level tickets available for those who would like to help provide local youth with scholarships to attend future programming of The Poet Lady Rose/Petals and Thorns.