By Brian Dunlap

A lot goes on in literary Long Beach. Open mics, readings and even a new book store, Page Against the Machine, opened on East 3rd Street earlier this year. One of the biggest movers and shakers in the community is poet/arts organizer/promoter Nancy Lynée Woo. She’s always devising and running new literary events. The following is her latest event, in collaboration with Elmast Kozloyan, in her own words, taken from her Facebook post:

“So check this out, Elmast Kozloyan and I have been up to some schemes. We like creativity, we like games, and we like hosting events. So, we’re adapting the backyard artist salon into a chance-style open mic where you’re invited to bring your best weird for an audience-voted cash prize!! We’re calling it Lucky Seven – Performance Roulette and you can find all the scrumptious game rules in the event description.

If anyone has ever been to one of the salons that Alex and I hosted over the past 5 years, I especially hope you can come check this out. Since I moved into a one-bedroom apartment I’ve lost private event hosting space but I’ve gained an expansion of imagination! Super stoked to have found a home to continue the salon at Dipiazzas, which has been such an awesome and welcoming venue.

Consider it kind of a cross between a moth storytelling showcase, an open mic and a salon. Anything goes. Performers drawn at random. N00bs and seasoned performers all welcome because this is a playground to experiment and let yourself explore the stage. Lots of clapping and encouragement! Even though there’s a cash prize, this is more about community than competition. But hey, I always love being able to hand cash to an artist.

And if you know Elmast and me, you know we love a bit of theatrics. So be prepared to kiss the hands of Lady Luck and Miss Fortune. Draw a card. Spin the wheel. Bring your best. Place your bets 💋”

Here is the link to the events Facebook page: https://facebook.com/events

Nancy continues on: “This is the first Lucky 7 so I am hoping I can get a full house to merit doing it again! Please check out the description and if it sounds fun, come through. PM me with any questions. I promise there will be surprises.”

Check out what’s going on in literary Long Beach and enjoy.