Workshops and Slams
Established in 2008, Johnson Brothers Entertainment was created to expand the urban arts in Madison, WI. Discovering the extreme creativity of Madison’s youth and aware of the lack of opportunities for teens to positively express themselves, Johnson Brothers Entertainment developed the Students Exploring Expression (S.E.E.) program. Since its establishment, Johnson Brothers Entertainment has been on the forefront of the spoken word poetry movement. Johnson Brothers Entertainment presents literary arts education and youth development programs that focus on the art of spoken word poetry by providing creative writing workshops and performance opportunities. Johnson Brothers Entertainment has worked directly with over 300 youth from diverse communities throughout Dane County and also hosts the annual “Can You Spit?” city-wide high school spoken word poetry competition. Johnson Brothers Entertainment has collaborated with the UW Office of Multicultural Arts Initiative, Madison School and Community Recreation (MSCR), the Mary Lou Williams Centennial Committee, Goodman Community Center, Dane County Boys & Girls Club, and many others to provide youth slams, open microphones events, workshops and more. Johnson Brothers Entertainment strongly believes youth can use their writing and voice to be agents of social change in their community and help shape the world.
Our many workshops are designed to introduce youth to the art of spoken word poetry while enhancing critical thinking and positive expression. Workshops also provide counsel, support, encouragement, and positive reinforcement to promising youth artists.
Led by local adult poet mentors, the workshops focus on a youth-centered pedagogy where young writers can build their experience, knowledge, and confidence in creative expression and spoken word poetry. Students explore the written and oral tradition of spoken word poetry and also learn about its history and influence in American culture. Youth participants are also taught various performance techniques for sharing spoken word poetry and are encouraged to record their poems to compact disc or create a video. Each workshop is designed to promote and enhance learning by fostering a safe and supportive environment.
Skilled poet mentors are trained to ensure the success of each workshop. Mentors are committed to teaching youth the elements of spoken word poetry by engaging in professional development and evaluation. Poet mentors also advise and implement projects that focus on positive youth development throughout the community.
