Speakeasy

This is the start of a series of columns that will appear as a regular feature in the NoHo News — the first and finest in keeping you up-to-date in artistic and cultural happenings.

Here, you will find a real grab-bag of news and other exciting information that centers around the local coffeehouse scene. This will be enjoyable for those of you who have recently arrived from Ohio, or those of you who haven’t experienced what coffeehouse culture is, or that this corner of El Lay has such a thing.

Coffeehouses in the local area, such as Eagles Coffee Pub, the Eclectic Cafe, and the grand-daddy of NoHo coffeehouses, the Iguana Cafe, all have a cultural flavor of their own. There is a tremendous amount of local talent and artistic energy that makes these places resonate with a kinetic vibe that sets them apart from other establishments where patrons are more or less a passive element. Coffeehouses tend to invite active participation — banging on a tambourine in time with a folk singer on stage, presenting one’s own poetry over a cup of coffee at the many open readings, or simply being drawn into learned discussions with a group of people nearby about the current political situation.

Look here in coming issues for profiles of some of the people that make the local coffeehouse scene happen, as well as listings of upcoming events and other tidbits of note. Until next time, make mine a double espresso, and please don’t wipe the rim with that stupid piece of lemon rind. I wonder if they’re ever gonna call my name for this open mike?