Join poets from MSU and the greater Lansing community as they write and perform original works inspired by the dynamic intersections of culture, technology, and music, exploring the personal, political, and social landscapes shaped by Techno. This competition will feature poets vying for three cash prizes, with the top performers selected by community judges from the audience.
This special edition of the MSU Museum’s Poetry Slam is hosted by Natasha T. Miller, the MSU Museum’s Community Engagement Manager and a three-time top five finalist in the Women of the World Poetry Slam, in collaboration with the RCAH Center for Poetry.
Whether you are a fan of spoken word or a devotee of techno’s powerful legacy, this event promises an unforgettable fusion of rhythm, word, and energy.
Following the Poetry Slam will be a DJ set by Detroit Techno artist Adriel.
This program is in conjunction with Techno: The Rise of Detroit’s Machine Music on view at 311 Abbot February 4 – April 30, 2025.
More About Adriel Thornton
Detroit-based creative contributor and culture creator Adriel Thornton has, through decades of consistent imaginative and bold ideation, earned global recognition as a leading authority in the creative arts and event production.
Born and raised in Northwest (NW) Detroit, Thornton was introduced to electronic music by older family members who participated in early progressive dance music events, including the famed Music Institute. In the early ‘90s, he began distributing flyers for events and eventually started producing his own. Since then, Thornton has produced hundreds of events, including major global festivals, award-winning club nights, film screenings, and more. As a leader in creative culture, he has spoken on panels for South by Southwest (SXSW), Cinetopia, and Model D, and was selected as Detroit’s representative of its entrepreneurial and creative class for Virgin Airlines, alongside Bridget Russo (Shinola), Dan Gilbert (Quicken), and Richard Branson (Virgin).
As an event producer, Thornton has also achieved international acclaim. His club event, FAMILY, now in its 28th year, was voted “Best Club Night in America” and has hosted talent from around the world. Additional signature productions include the Detroit Electronic Music Festival, Dally in the Alley, Eastern Market After Dark, Dine Drink Detroit, and the Knight Arts Challenge Award Ceremony. Thornton also serves as Detroit’s first independent Night Ambassador.
Although his résumé boasts an extensive list of personal achievements—including founding a clothing line, store, and print publication (Digital Laundre, Space 19, and NUDE Magazine, respectively)—Thornton has played a fundamental role in the success of countless additional projects and events. He continues to contribute culturally through his organization, FreshCorp, producing events and DJing. He truly is a Detroit Ambassador of Cultural Goodwill.
