Hear Authentic Philadelphia Stories at First Person Arts Festival

Just like taking your first bite of an authentic Philly cheesesteak from Geno’s Steaks, the First Person Arts Festival is unlike anything else you will experience. Held from November 5 to 18, the festival is a celebration of people and their stories. It includes documentary screenings, live performances, workshops, book readings, art exhibitions, and much more. First Person Arts is a Philadelphia-based nonprofit organization that “celebrates the power of the personal” through writing classes, performances, and a podcast.

Last year, at the 15th annual First Person Arts Festival, artists and everyday people told their personal stories in venues across the city. The event featured:

  • Renowned playwright, poet, and novelist Ntozake Shange
  • Philadelphia’s Poet Laureate Yolanda Wisher.
  • Dave Hill, an American comedian, radio host, writer, musician and actor,
  • Paul Zaloom, puppeteer and political satirist.

A big draw of the festival is anyone can perform if they have a story to tell. A monthly event in Philadelphia and a highlight of the festival are the StorySlams, which are storytelling competitions where storytellers share a themed, five-minute tale. Winners receive a $100 prize and the chance to perform in the Grand Slam, where winners from a variety of StorySlams compete for the title of GrandSlam champion.

The festival also boasts impressive sponsors from PNC, African American Museum Philadelphia, Temple University Institute on Disabilities, The Philadelphia Culture Fund, and Yards Brewing Company. Information about the 2017 festival is forthcoming, including venues, featured performers and more.

Performing, or even watching performances, can make you hungry. We recommend visiting us at Geno’s Steaks for an authentic Philly cheesesteak. We are open 24/7, so even if any event runs late, you and your friends can always grab a sandwich and fries at Geno’s Steaks.