Asia Project poetry slam to inspire students

By Sella Robinett

Ranger Reporter

 

Each month, the Student Government Association hosts an event for Amarillo College students, faculty and staff.

At noon today, the SGA will host a poetry slam featuring the Asia Project. Free lunch will be provided. The event will be in the SGA lounge in the basement of the College Union Building on the Washington Street Campus.

Heather Atchley, Student Life director, said the atmosphere will be casual, fun and relaxed.

The show will start right at noon, and students can come a little early to grab lunch and get a seat. There will be plenty of tables, chairs and couches set up, so it should be comfortable, Atchley said.

Atchley said she has seen Asia perform five or more times. She said every time she has seen him, the audience has been moved to tears, either from laughing or crying.

“It’s just really amazing to watch this kind of talent,” she said.

SGA members saw him at an Association for the Promotion of Campus Activities conference during the fall 2013 semester. Atchley said they loved his performance and are excited to have him in Amarillo.

“He’s really good,” said Trey Jimenez, SGA vice president.

Asia also will perform Friday at West Texas A&M University. By booking simultaneously with WT, SGA members were able to save a lot of money, Atchley said.

“Asia’s gripping works have never been less than an honest and genuine testimonial to his life,” states Asia’s website. “His uncanny ability to combine humor and inspiration while provoking thought and self-reflection has won audiences all over.”

“It’s a cross between seeing a movie, watching a musician. You know, it’s just really, really entertaining,” Atchley said. “It’s a fantastic art form.”

Atchley said she believes this artist appeals to everyone of all ages and all backgrounds.

“College is a good opportunity to take advantage of different things that are presented to you,” she said.

Atchley said she encourages students to take advantage of the free show.

“They’ve already paid for it, because they pay student activity fees as part of their tuition and fees,” she said.

“Those are the funds we use to put on these big activities. People who come will not regret it.”

Colton Smith, a music education major, said he probably will attend the poetry slam.

Smith said free food for students is all the motivation he needs.