It's interesting to look back at how this poetry and art journey has evolved. What started as simply posting poetry on Instagram grew into a virtual platform during the 2020 pandemic. By 2023, I hosted my first in-person open mic poetry event at Shorty's Bar in Bayonne, New Jersey.

It was on that day I realized I was onto something. I wasn't sure how it would all play out, but I knew there was a real spark right here in Bayonne. Based on every person I've connected with through these live events, I am convinced there is a deep demand for an art and poetry scene here. However I can make a difference for the city of Bayonne, I will.

Having been born and raised in Las Vegas, NV (a place where the expansion of hotel casinos prioritizes the expansion of arts, and where the sun ironically creates a hellscape over a place dubbed "Sin City"), I always dreamed of moving to the East Coast. The idea of bathing in the rich culture, the diverse art scenes, and being able to expand my description of the weather to something other than the same singular adjective ("hot"), filled my soul until I was finally brave enough to make the move—and it was the second best move I've ever made. The first best move was deciding to go to my first ever poetry slam, an event called "The Unraveled Poetry Syndicate" in the small city of Bayonne, NJ. It was there that I met the host, Andy Morales, and several other incredible artists, instantly proving my childhood reverie correct. This truly is a place filled with art, love, and community—and I couldn't be more honored to be a part of it.

The triple threat. Singer, dancer, and a vulnerable poet. Originally from South Jersey but I've been in Newark for 12 years. I found a love for all my gifts and have been building, perfecting, and letting them shine. I want to do it all and found a way to spend it all. Everyone calls me Marlah—look out for "That’s So Marlah" as my new brand name. I also have a new blog / podcast on the way named "brainoverflowed" where I will solo host and connect with other artists to chat about real topics, issues, poetry, music and much more. Believe in yourself. This is my first time and I feel so good.