Lyrical Sanctuary

Lyrical Sanctuary: Be inspired. Speak your mind. Leave an impression.

Lyrical Sanctuary is UWM’s monthly open mic night, featuring a standout spoken word artist, live music and art, and YOU! It is a campus tradition that brings students and community members together to share their passion for poetry and creative self-expression. Prior to each performance, the monthly featured artist leads a creative writing workshop open to anyone willing to put their pen to the page.  

Various Wednesdays | Workshop, Open Mic & Performance
6-6:45 p.m. | Writing Workshop | Union 143
7-9 p.m. | Open Mic & Performance | UWM Union Fireside Lounge
Free and open to the public.

Experience The Power of Lyrical Sanctuary:

Lyrical Sanctuary Features of Spring 2024

FEBRUARY

Cedric Hoard

Cedric Hoard discovered his gift and talent for poetry while taking a speech class in college, and his vision is of a world where people have discovered their true and purposeful identity. As a Licensed Professional Counselor and national spoken word artist, Cedric possesses a unique ability to help others effectively address and navigate complex aspects of life. As a result, he aims to normalize conversations regarding mental health and remove barriers caused by stigma, shame, and misunderstanding. He is honored to have the opportunities to travel throughout the United States, performing on college campuses, in churches, youth groups and schools while writing for and performing for several weddings, events and organizations.

He is a native of Milwaukee. He is a happy husband and father to his wife Tierra and his daughter Cianna Joy. 

Cedric’s Writing Workshop:

Self-Discovery: How Our Stories Reveal Our Path to Healing. In this workshop, attendees will reflect on how their life story is simply a treasure map guiding them to beauty worth discovering. This workshop will provide an opportunity to not see the painful realities of our story as life sentences, yet to begin to see them as entrances and possibilities to create new meaning in our lives. 

Wednesday, February 14 | Workshop, Open Mic & Performance
6-6:45 p.m. | Writing Workshop | Union 143
7-9 p.m. | Open Mic & Performance | UWM Union Fireside Lounge

 

MARCH

Aichelle White

Aichelle “Midwsthumnbrd” White, hailing from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is not just a singer-songwriter/producer; she has evolved into a dynamic force in the music industry. As a singer-songwriter, Aichelle crafts her music from the crucible of personal experiences. Her soulful melodies and poignant lyrics resonate with a powerful message—urging listeners to discover love amidst hatred, draw strength from weakness, and maintain unwavering faith throughout life’s journey. Beyond her role as a musical artist, Aichelle has embraced a new chapter as a music business advocate. Known for her articulate expression and impassioned storytelling, she shares insights garnered from her own challenges and triumphs, inspiring audiences to embrace resilience and creativity in their pursuits. 

Follow Aichelle’s journey on Instagram @midwsthumnbrd 

Aichelle’s Writing Workshop:

Harmonies of Self Discovery: This workshop aims to create a space where participants can explore emotions metaphorically, share their stories collaboratively, and contribute to a collective song that embodies healing harmonies. 

Wednesday, March 13 | Workshop, Open Mic & Performance
6-6:45 p.m. | Writing Workshop | Union 143
7-9 p.m. | Open Mic & Performance | UWM Union Fireside Lounge

 

APRIL

Kyndal J.

Kyndal is a multi-faceted creative. She ventures into the art of singing, songwriting, fashion, and creative directing. She combines her many talents with confidence and style, curating a complete experience. Kyndal J. works heavily curating fashion experiences with theater companies such as Black Arts MKE, Milwaukee Chamber Theater, and magazines such as CopyWrite Magazine. Through her diverse creative avenues, she has also helped develop projects with artists and companies such as Wolf Studio, R&B singer B~free, and Milwaukee’s Bronzeville Week. Kyndal continues to use her creativity to help develop Milwaukee’s growing creative scene.   

Follow Kyndal’s journey on Instagram @Kyndal_J

Kyndal’s Writing Workshop:

Finding Your Sound: This workshop experience aims to inspire your vision through sounds and emotions. Using sound to inspire what words that fit into your story, poem or art.

Wednesday, April 10 | Workshop, Open Mic & Performance
6-6:45 p.m. | Writing Workshop | Union 143
7-9 p.m. | Open Mic & Performance | UWM Union Fireside Lounge

 

MAY

Student Showcase

Celebrate the talent of UWM student artists at our 12th Annual Student Showcase! Where 5 chosen student artists collectively feature in the final Lyrical Sanctuary event of the school year. It will be a fun night of poetry, music and workshops you don’t want to miss! 

*Student features to be announced soon*

Student’s Writing Workshop:

*Writing Workshop to be announced soon*

Wednesday, May 1 | Workshop, Open Mic & Performance
6-6:45 p.m. | Writing Workshop | Union 143
7-9 p.m. | Open Mic & Performance | UWM Union Fireside Lounge

For more information about all Lyrical Sanctuary events contact:
John Contreras
Sociocultural Programming Manager
(414) 251-6527
sociocul@uwm.edu

Sponsored by Sociocultural Programming