After a record number of submissions, the virtual poetry reading series, “Poets in Pajamas” is announcing their 2023 season lineup. Poets in Pajamas is a free, online reading series that connects readers and writers across the world from the comfort of their own pajamas.
While international in its reach, the reading series is hosted courtesy of Sundress Publications, a literary arts nonprofit based in East Tennessee. Through Sundress, Poets in Pajamas was able to secure, for the first time ever, a Poetry Programs, Partnerships, and Innovation grant from the Poetry Foundation. The grant will go towards supporting this season’s event organizers and readers.
The series seeks to spotlight writers who identify as being a part of disenfranchised communities such as but not limited to, people of color, immigrant populations, native and indigenous people, LGBTQ+, d/Deaf and Disabled, non-binary people, members of non-dominant religious groups, all women, Dreamers, formerly incarcerated, and more.
“We are so grateful for all the readers and volunteers that contribute their time and talent, and overjoyed that the Poetry Foundation chose to support us, keeping this series flourishing.” said Erin Elizabeth Smith, Founder and Executive Director of Sundress.
“Poets in Pajamas is a pure expression of the Sundress community and its open arms. We have newer writers alongside established voices and the format, in many ways, makes it accessible for more people to experience and share their craft. I learn something new from every reading,” said SJ Stout, one of the series coordinators.
In order to grow and connect new audiences, Poets in Pajamas is switching to a “Pajama Party” format this season—all readings will feature two poets. Readings will take place Sundays at 7 PM Eastern Standard Time / 4 PM Pacific Time and will be followed by an audience Q/A with the readers. Updates, poet bios, reminders, and links to join the virtual readings can be found at Poets in Pajamas’s WordPress and Facebook Page. SJ Stout and Aslan Gossett will host.
PiP 2023 Season
March 19
Jakky Bankong-Obi &
Nicole Arocho Hernández
April 16
Mary Leauna Christensen &
Sarena Brown
May 21
Ja’net Danielo &
Athena Nassar
June 4
Noreen Ocampo &
River 慧瑩 Dandelion
June 18
Taiye Ojo &
Cindy Juyoung Ok
July 16
Will Carpenter &
Shareen K. Murayama
July 30
Bo Schwabacher &
Ashia Ajani
August 6
Chim Sher Ting &
Grace Macnair
August 27
Sarah Sarai &
Milica Mijatović
September 10
Jennifer Martelli &
Shlagha Borah
October 15
Ide Thompson &
Annette Covrigaru
November 12
Tzynya Pinchback &
Emma Aylor
