Past Events
Liberation Open Mic
Friday, November 22, 2024
Liberation Open Mic invites you to sense liberation —
To express yourself richly
To be heard by fellow humans
Sound off about the state of the world,
Imagine a better one.
Bring a poem, a song, your guitar or ukelele, an artwork or anything at all that you wish to share with us, your local community.
Saturday Afternoon Music — Darian Rivera
Saturday, November 16, 2024
Darian Rivera is a singer songwriter who always wanted to sing and write songs as a kid. Darian finally got a chance to do this with his first guitar teacher and has been writing ever since. Darian has been touring from Massachusetts to Washington, DC since 2018 and through the pandemic to the present day. Come join us with a cup of coffee and some original tunes. You can check Darian out at: www.reverbnation.com/darianrivera Enjoy!
Frank Troy & Friends
Saturday, November 9, 2024
Local Singer/Songwriter Frank Troy is back with friends and family.
Always an enjoyable time.
Join us. Guaranteed good time.
Book Event: Rocio Uchofen: “Typewriter: Ink, Memories & Rhythm”
Saturday, November 2, 2024
Join us for a bilingual poetic extravanganza!
Typewriter: Ink, Memories & Rhythm is a bilingual poetry book that originated when the author Rocio Uchofen got a mini-residency at West Brighton Library, from The Poetry Society. Poems like "Bread", "Raw Poetry", "Ikarus" and some others are reminiscences of the poet's teen years, but in certain ways they are timeless pieces that will resound in any language. Rocio Uchofen was born in Peru and resides in Westerleigh, Staten Island. She has lived in NYC since 1996.
“We Are The Resistance” Album Listening Party
Friday, November 1, 2024
Join the Staten Island 4 Palestine community in celebrating the release of liberation album 'We Are the Resistance’, by local musician, social media creator, and organizer, Leila Hegazy. After going viral on social media with her pro-Palestine covers of popular songs, Leila is excited to present her full length album, which includes her most well-known covers, as well as original songs that speak to collective liberation. Through song and discussion, listeners are invited to imagine a liberated Palestine, and an end to all sources of oppression worldwide. All proceeds for this album benefit the Palestine Children's Relief Fund.
The Phoenix Reading Room Returns!
Sunday, October 27, 2024
Since 1997, The Phoenix Reading Series has been holding almost weekly readings. It features a wide range of poets from well-established poets, to unknowns and open readers. We welcome the Phoenix Reading Group friends to ETG Book Cafe. Join us.
Mike Graves is an old friend of ours at the Book Cafe and is joined by a cast of other wonderful wordsmiths . . .
Featured Poets:
M.A. Dennis — spoken word poet, classically trained journalist, award winning essayist, haiku master, and truth seeker.
Yuyutsu Ram Das Sharma known internationally as the Himalayan Poet, edits Pratik and the Nirala Publication Series.
Anna Halberstadt — poet, translator, psychologist and psychotherapist.
Jessica Penner — award winning novelist.and the author of Shaken in the Water.
Miriam Stanley — poet, a member of Rigur Scholars and a host of the Phoenix Reading Series.
Michael Graves — poet, long-time New Yorker, has read his poems to a James Joyce Society gathering and organized a conference on James Wright at Poets House.
Liberation Open Mic
Friday, October 25, 2024
Liberation Open Mic invites you to sense liberation —
To express yourself richly
To be heard by fellow humans
Sound off about the state of the world,
Imagine a better one.
Bring a poem, a song, your guitar or ukelele, an artwork or anything at all that you wish to share with us, your local community.
Book Event: "Strangers and Robots" by Ando
Saturday, October 19, 2024
Come meet the author at ETG, and expand your understanding of life's most fundamental question.
Ando brings together 300 strangers, 3 robots, and one question: What is the meaning of life? Lifted from the streets of New York, this coffee table book showcases a mosaic of colorful perspectives. The wisdom ranges from whimsical to profound and offers readers new and meaningful ways to move about the world.
Book Event: Author Anissa Blango with “The Unbearable Feeling of Sadness”
Saturday, October 12, 2024
Join us for a very heart-opening book event from author Anissa Blango.
Anissa writes “ My story is about a single mother raising a child with autism. Documenting my journey became therapeutic and actually saved me from dark moments. Depression would return disrupting my mental health.
I dedicate this book to every parent raising a child with developmental disability.
Take care of your mental health. It won’t be dark forever. The sun will shine tomorrow.
Jazz Musician Kevin Norton
Saturday, September 28, 2024
For jazz musician and composer Kevin Norton (vibes, drums), music has the power to bring people together. Music has the power to motivate people and change our lives for the better.
Kevin’s musical background is in jazz, new-music, “classical” and soundtrack venues, and he is also a committed social activist. Kevin https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kevin_Norton
The Three of Us, At It Again
Saturday, September 21, 2024
Come join us in an intimate evening of songs, stories, and spoken word, featuring 3 singer/ songwriters, poets and all around nice people — Phoebe Blue, Thomas Patrick Maguire and Vincent Vok (AKA Father Crime). They will be sharing the stage, taking turns sharing original songs and welcoming comments and questions from the audience.
Wagner College Open Mic Night
Saturday, September 14, 2024
We’re thrilled to welcome back the annual Wagner Open Mic performance event. Come and enjoy the talent, and if you have a passion for performing yourself, there may be time at the end for your participation!!!
Panaccusticum
Saturday, August 17, 2024
Panaccusticum is a live music performance by Matthias Etter on violin, using a stereo echo device to create a magical immersive experience. His repertoire includes minimal musical compositions, classical and jazz motifs, folk melodies and sound sculptures. Immersing yourself in the sound space with your eyes closed can change your perception of time.
The Black King of Vaudeville: Remembering Bert Williams
Friday, August 9, 2024
Bert Williams (1874-1922) was one of the pre-eminent entertainers of the Vaudeville era, and one of the most popular comedians for all audiences of his time. In an age when racial inequality and stereotyping were commonplace, he became the first Black-American to take pioneer leading roles, both on Broadway and in the 1914 film Darktown Jubilee, pushing back racial barriers in his 3-decades long career. Tony-nominated actor Larry Marshall who starred in "Jesus Christ Superstar", "Hair", and "Porgy & Bess” rejuvenates the life and music of Bert Williams. Larry Marshall will be joined by Rick Cordova on piano.
Book Release event: Aleksandra Chumak's “Saving Hogmand"
Friday, August 2, 2024
Join us as we celebrate Aleksandra Chumak's “Saving Hogmand" a thrilling fantasy novel, which is the first of a trilogy, "Tales from the MIA".
Ukrainian native and Staten Island resident Aleksandra Chumak is an author, psychotherapist and digital creator who believes that every time we travel- whether it be a physical trip or an internal odyssey- we return changed. Join us to hear more about her life's journey and how she came to be an author.
Acoustic Show Featuring Local Singers
Friday, July 26, 2024
Acoustic show featuring local singers Julia Simoniello, Justin Legends, Patrick Wakie, and Tommi!!
{$5,00 suggested donation, no-one turned away!}
Games Afternoon
Thursday, July 25, 2024
Are you a games person? Are you available sometime between 4.30-6pm Thursday, July 25th? Do join us at the Book Cafe!
Our two excited interns are planning a fun afternoon. Zev, an empassioned games aficionado who works in a games space in Manhattan, will be play-working with us. He is bringing new games to explore!
Come alone and meet new people or bring others!
Sip coffee, tea (iced or hot), juice, smoothies. Snack on our pizzetas, cookies, and cakes.
Hydrogen Jukebox And Friends
Friday, July 12, 2024
Hydrogen Jukebox performs and celebrates their album release!
Hydrogen Junkbox is three NYC poets who began repurposing their poems into songs, accompanying themselves on ukuleles and found object instruments, vocalizing and harmonizing with each other. In recording their first set of songs, they aimed to revive the lo-fi anti-folk approach of the 1990s. They buzz, they hum. They rumble and soar!
Special guest appearances by assorted other Staten Island musicians Jenno Snyder, Comfort Cat and Phoebe Blue!!
This is gonna be fun!!!
Among the places they have played are Dixon Place , KGB Red Room and Parkside Lounge in Manhattan, Branded Saloon and Brooklyn Wildlife Festival, the Antifolk Festival at Deep Tanks North, and the Staten Island Zine Fest and MakerSpace in Staten Island (as well as ETG Book Cafe!).
Meower Power Hour
Saturday, June 29, 2024
TWO CATS BANDS FROM 2 CITIES! Comfort Cat & Friends from Staten island and Salt City Scratch from Syracuse.
What kind music will we hear?? Salt City Scratch describes itself as "Sewercuse Drunken Cat Folk Punk"!!
Stories & Songs with Vincent Vok & Andrew Caddell
Saturday, June 15, 2024
Vincent Vok (AKA Father Crime) has been an integral part of Staten Island’s arts and music scene for the last twenty years, he has played countless shows, hosted singer/songwriter events, directed and performed in local theater. He earned his degree on the streets and in the clubs of the West Village, learning his craft from the likes of Dave Van Ronk and Suzanne Vega.
Andrew Caddell is a singer/songwriter from Staten Island who started out as the singer and guitar player in a band called the Earaches from 2008-20013, and has been playing open mics and solo shows since 2015. In addition to writing and performing his own music he is also a prolific painter and enjoys going for long walks in the park with his Basset Hound Louie.
Slay Your Dragon … With Poetry Open Mic
Saturday, June 1, 2024
Slaying your dragons doesn't always mean having the courage to do what you love. Sometimes it means having the courage to do what you don't want to do but know needs to be done. This unique open mic invites you to slay your dragons with us at ETG Café for a night of community, poetry and music. Brought to you by Hibrido Literario, Staten Island OutLOUD and Creating Space.
Games Night!
Saturday, May 18, 2024
Come by to play chess, cards, Scrabble, Jenga and/or assorted other games.
(We have a bunch of games, or you can bring one of yours!) Come by yourself, or with friends or family.
Frank Troy with Friends and Family
Saturday, May 4, 2024
Local singer/songwriter Frank Troy returns to the neighborhood stage! This time he'll share the stage with some of his nearest and dearest; expect a rollicking good time!
{Frank performs his original songs, as well as some of our favorite covers,accompanying himself on guitar}
Peace Train
Saturday, April 27, 2024
Peace Train is a musical adventure that features vocalist James Ceribello, keyboardist Lou DiNatale, bassist Steve Elias, and guitarist Marty Castore. They share their beautiful arrangements of classic songs from the 60s, 70s, and 80s. Always a moving musical happening!
Two beloved local Singer-Songwriters! Kay Ashley & Caroline Cutroneo
Saturday, April 20, 2024
Kay Ashley is a talented singer, guitar player and songwriter. Author and music critic Andrew Hultkrans had this to say about Kay’s music—specifically her debut album, “Heliotrope,” which is set to be re-released later this year:
“Kay Ashley's gorgeous, moving "Heliotrope" occupies a charmed point triangulated by Joni Mitchell's "Hejira,” Paul Simon's "Graceland," and Nick Drake's “Pink Moon." A master of stacked vocal harmonies and alternate guitar tunings, Ashley's melodies are instantly memorable yet devoid of cliche ... At once a love letter to Africa, India, and men in her past, “Heliotrope" is a travelogue of the soul—betraying the influence of far-flung cultures while remaining both recognizably American and distinctly universal.”
Some copies of the original pressing will be available for purchase at the show.
Caroline Cutroneo is also a talented singer, songwriter and guitarist who has performed in the New York City area for over 25 years. Inspired by Judy Collins, Sandy Denny, Patsy Cline and other iconic performers in folk, country, blues and rock, Caroline has sung solo performances and with ensembles, many times at ETG Book Cafe and lots of other local venues. You can find some of her music and show announcements on Soundcloud or at her Facebook page.
Annual Spring Seed Swap!
Saturday, April 20, 2024
Get seedy with us at our annual Seed Swap! Bring seeds you'd like to give to other folks — seeds you collected/saved as well as seeds you purchased but didn't use. Take home seeds that others have brought. And connect with other gardeners!
Kevin Norton’s Jazz Essence returns!
Saturday, April 13, 2024
Kevin Norton: vibes & drums, Julia Simoniello: vocals, Mike Baggetta: guitar, Ken Filiano: bass
Kevin Norton’s Jazz Essence is an ongoing project that the original composer formed to explore, re-arrange and celebrate the roots (and branches) of jazz. The core instrumentation: vibraphone (vibes), guitar and bass is inspired by the Red Norvo trio, a unique jazz ensemble with guitarist Tal Farlow and bassist Charles Mingus, known for orchestral clarity, instrumental virtuosity and unique repertoire.
New York Poets of the New Black Arts Movement of the 1960's and 70's
Saturday, April 6, 2024
"New York Poets of the New Black Arts Movement of the 1960's and 70's" with Jimmy Wright. Among the featured poets will be Audre Lorde, Jayne Cortez, Ntozke Shange, and Gil Scott-Heron. Some readers will be invited from the audience; others will be pre-assigned.
Pop-Up Party!
Saturday, March 30, 2024
Come on by to dance, chat, play chess, look at books and vinyl records, hang out in the back garden, have a yummy treat, etc {The band that was scheduled to play this evening had to cancel, so we're making the best of it!}
Celebrating the Life of Houdini!
Saturday, March 23, 2024
Staten Island OutLOUD hosts a gathering of readings, music & curiosity in honor of Harry Houdini's 150th birthday.
We encourage guests to wear Houdini-inspired festive garb.
Calling all Island poets & musicians: Please join our open mic to read your short poems on Harry Houdini, or to perform your songs & musical Houdini tributes.
Special guests include our co-host Julie Bentsen (poet, illustrator, mental health counselor), Douglas G. Cala (poet), M. A. Dennis (poet), Thomas Fucaloro (poet, editor, educator), Andy Kass (composer, writer, musician, singer), Jacob R. Moses (writer, editor, educator), Vincent Vok (poet, composer, singer, musician), plus a few surprises!
Irish Songs with Bob Wright
Saturday, March 16, 2024
St Patrick’s Eve and do you know where your Irish Is? Bob Wright does, and he'll share it with you in songs celebrating the fair isle both traditional and new, including songs from his upcoming illustrated book Ginger Sea ‘Neath the Celtic Moon, which is being sponsored by the New York State Council on the Arts and City Lore in Manhattan. {See City Lore mission statement for more info on that organization!}
Bob is a native Islander, award winning songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist whose songs often document local history, maritime history, and his Irish roots.
Frank Troy
Saturday, March 2, 2024
Local singer/songwriter Frank Troy returns to the neighborhood stage! Accompanying himself on the guitar, Frank's singing will touch your heart!
He performs his original songs, as well as some of our favorite covers!
Open Mic!
Saturday, February 24, 2024
Open Mic on the neighborhood stage! With our favorite M/C Phoebe Blue! Come and share your song, poem, dance, magic trick, etc!! 1 piece each or 4 minutes.
"Greeks and their Love Songs" with Jonathan Bricklin
Saturday, February 17, 2024
Three millennia of passion, despair, and mystical mingling. Live and recorded music from Sappho to Savvopoulos, including rhythmic, poetic verses of Parmenides and Empedocles (who viewed Aphrodite as a trickster goddess). In the spirit of Bacchic Frenzy, group chanting and singing will be encouraged.
[Due to the highly salacious nature of some of the content, no children under 16 will be admitted.]
A (lapsed) member of Actor's Equity, Jonathan Bricklin has performed in numerous musicals, at venues including BAM and Off-Broadway. He is the author of The Illusion of Will, Self, and Time (SUNY Press), numerous essays for international journals (including a study on Parmenides), and is the editor of Sciousness (a collection of essays on nonduality). Jonathan spent much of his twenties studying Greek at several New York universities and received a Certificate in Advanced Greek Studies from the Latin/Greek Institute in 1982. Since then he has continued to be inspired by ancient and modern Greek culture — especially its poets, songwriters, and singers.
Renaps and John shares stories and songs
Saturday, February 3, 2024
Staten Island native Rena Parisi (aka Renaps) and her friend John P. will delight us with music, poetry and more!
Renaps is a born and raised Staten Island writer/musician. Originally a traditional animator, she had since shifted the path to fully focus on music in realizing a deep love for story and audio.
Currently she learns drums and narrates with dynamics at the forefront of a visual storytelling experiment depicting multiple characters in a band called undernaiL with fellow friend/musician Cat Jaton plucking bass.
She'll be here telling stories in song & shadow with her traveling companion John for a Tales-around-the-bonfire kind of evening.
Instagram: @renapsable
Kevin Norton and Julia Sane Simoniello
Saturday, January 20, 2024
Jazz musician and composer Kevin Norton (vibes, drums) joins Julia Sane Simoniello (singer. songwriter and visual artist) for an evening of musical treats.
Julia Sane Simoniello and Kevin Norton have been collaborating on music (and multimedia, activist) projects for about 10 years now. They connect on several levels, but the main idea behind their collaboration is that music is more than just notes and rhythms. Music has the power to bring people together. Music has the power to motivate people and change our lives for the better.
Julia comes from a deep singer/songwriter background, as well as a visual artist and social activist. Kevin’s musical background is in jazz, new-music, “classical” and soundtrack venues, and, like Julia he is also a committed social activist.
Together, they make music that defies easy definitions, but they do seem to connect with listeners that seek a deeper interaction with music.
Frank Troy
Saturday, January 13, 2024
Local singer/songwriter Frank Troy returns to the neighborhood stage! Accompanying himself on the guitar, Frank's singing will touch your heart!
He performs his original songs, as well as some of our favorite covers!