Volcanic Voices presents the 2nd Annual Black Voices Matter Showcase! Sponsored by Telepharoah Brandon of Polarity Studio! This year we will be showcasing some of Oahu's best Black Spoken Word Poets and Comedians! We also have the honor of featuring International Spoken Word Artist, Author, and Philosopher Marc Marcel! This is sure to be a night filled with laughs, deep introspection, and appreciation for Black stories and culture all throughout the diaspora! Hosted by Hawaii Grand Slam Champion Z From Baltimore. Doors open at 8:30. Tickets will be $15 sold at the door (cash and card accepted). Refreshments will be available for purchase. Masks must be worn upon entry.

About Our Feature: Marc Marcel has been declared, “One of the most consciously aware spoken word artists ever,” by radio host Palmetto Star. Born and raised in Baltimore, MD, Marcel was diagnosed with dyslexia at the age of 10. “It took me over a decade into my profession for me to realize poetry isn’t my gift,” Marc reveals, “Poetry is just a tool I’ve been using, to spread my gift through.” With his many artistic outlets, it is difficult to restrict himself to the labels of the art form. If one were to categorize his efforts, a philosopher would be more fitting. He has traveled the world, performed in 8 countries and over 150 American cities, published 5 books, produced 17 spoken word albums, and performed and/or held workshops for over 50 universities, including Harvard and Yale.  He has made 5 national television appearances, (BETJ Lyrics Café, No Reservations, etc.), performed in front of 12,000 people for Scion Night at Knots Scary Farm, entertained and the US Military Base in Qatar at the Al Udeid Air Base in 2014, and has graced legendary stages such as the Smithsonian in Washington DC for the 2009 Presidential Inaugural Peace Ball for President Obama.  He is the author of, ‘The Book that Doesn’t Even Matter,’ a philosophy on life, as well as the creator and animator of an animated web-series called, ‘Gurus,’ a cartoon parody of history’s greatest philosophers. When asked about his massive history of work, which includes thousands of unreleased poems and several unpublished novels, Marcel explains, “All that means nothing.  Everything I’ve ever done just prepares me for the next door I’m about to open. ” Inspiring, candid, thought-provoking and entertaining are just a few descriptions of his art.  He is spoken word, at its rawest, highest level of performance!