Young Chicago Authors

Winter Block Party is back! Join Vocalo, Young Chicago Authors and WBEZ for Winter Block Party2020: We The People.

Winter Block Party celebrates hip hop’s ability to connect people across generations and highlights the multifaceted culture of Chicago hip hop through a variety of media – dance, poetry, music and live art.

The takeover starts at noon in Metro and Smartbar, guests can take part in the fun including a dance workshop, face painting, rap and break-dance battles, pop-up barber shop, turntable showcase, local artist market and much more. The event is free and features a live Vocalo Radio broadcast.

This year’s theme celebrates the power of community. Through programming we aim to inspire attendees to learn more about civic engagement opportunities in their communities.

Upcoming Event

Nov 19

Wordplay

6-8:30pm @ Young Chicago Authors

1180 N. Milwaukee Ave, First Floor

WordPlay is the longest-running youth open mic in Chicago. Every Tuesday night, artists aged 12-25 come through Young Chicago Authors to participate in a writing workshop, perform their original work, and listen to music and poetry by artists of all genre and skill level. 6pm Workshop / 7pm Open Mic

Upcoming Event

Nov 23

Check The Method

1-3pm @ Young Chicago Authors

1180 N. Milwaukee Ave, Second Floor

Check The Method offers rigorous instruction in poetry and hip-hop spoken word to the most dedicated young writers in the city. Taught by YCA's Teaching Artist Corps, Check The Method is Chicago's premier writing workshop for 14-25 year olds. Come learn how to find inspiration in your daily life, write poems, and craft performances.

Upcoming Event

Nov 23

Emcee Wreckshop

4-6pm @ Young Chicago Authors

1180 N. Milwaukee Ave, First Floor

Are you an aspiring musician and rapper looking for a space to develop and present your work? The session begins with a workshop taught by local rappers Add-2 and Defcee, in which students will study an exemplary work, write new material, and finally, exchange pens for microphones, taking to YCA’s stage in a performative cypher.