The beatniks took over Coffeehouse and filled the Sandbar with cool, jazzy attitude reminiscent of the ’50s and ’60s. They even offered complimentary wayfarer sunglasses to wear during the performances to complete the beatnik look. Friday’s Coffeehouse included performances of spoken word, poetry readings, instruments performed in unique ways, and even a children’s storybook reading or two.
Beatnik is stereotype of the Beat Generation of the ’50s, known for a rejection of materialism and typical worldviews. Therefore, turtlenecks, berets and finger snapping in lieu of applause were completely acceptable at the Coffeehouse event.
The first performance of the night was sophomore Demi McCoy with a few pieces of spoken word. The first, entitled “Agape,” was sprinkled with frequent snaps from the audience as McCoy urged the listeners to get “out of our typical reality into our spiritual vitality,” followed by her second reading, “Reflection,” which got the audience a little more involved.
McCoy writes the spoken words herself, and practices each new piece for a few hours to memorize it, then revisits them a few days before a performance. “All of my pieces are different,” McCoy said. “I’m inspired by pretty much anything — music, poetry, classes.
McCoy was followed by senior Jordan Kahler who recited William Shakespeare’s “Sonnet 130,” speaking about a different kind of love than McCoy’s unconditional presentation of agape.
Raymon Griggs followed Kahler with some more spoken word that, as he said, “may not be appropriate for Pepperdine,” but quoting scripture followed up with, “‘judge and ye shall not be judged’ you know.” His piece repeated the phrase “somebody smoke me.” Griggs’ spoken word is also entirely original.
The first musical act of the night was resident singer-songwriter senior Nevin James, impressively playing the guitar and harmonica simultaneously. His single song, “Flying with a Wounded Wing,” was over 10 minutes long, and was also an original written by James himself.
James was followed by more spoken word from Jonathan Loggins, who read endearing pieces about middle school and “Falling in Like,” the only non-original piece, which was written by Big Poppa E. Loggins’ first piece was titled “For You,” and the second, titled, “It’ll Get Better,” was about middle school.
Likely the most memorable act of the night was some children’s stories with senior Wojtek Peliks, who read in all seriousness “There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly,” and a French children’s book about looking ridiculous. Peliks performed in costume, first in a bowler hat and full-length robe for the first story, then with a quick costume change (taking off the robe), a pink tutu and sparkly disco hat for the French story. He managed to maintain a straight face throughout his entire performance.
The final performance was Allan Heida on slap guitar, similar to the August Rush style playing found in the film. Heida performed several original songs, ending with “The Most Beautiful Girl in the Room,” by Flight of the Conchords.
“I love the variety of the performances,” said attendee and Board member senior Shelby Parsons. “It’s a great way to start your Friday and see your peers express themselves.”
The beatnik theme was definitely evident in the unconventional performances, whether in one-man guitar and harmonica band James, or an in-costume dramatic reading of “There was an Old Lady who Swallowed a Fly,” by Peliks.
The Coffeehouse’s purpose is to display original Pepperdine talent and allow students to express themselves. All students wishing to participate in the next Coffeehouse should sign up with The Board.
Free coffee, free sunglasses, all original Pepperdine acts and a classic beatnik theme — what’s not to love? The Board’s next Coffeehouse is Dec. 1, and this time it will be entirely Christmas themed.
