In collaboration with The Portal HQ:
Culture At the Mic is an ongoing showcase of talented local artists hosted by The Portal HQ of Raleigh. Our goal is to create an intimate and powerful environment where the focus is on the artists and creating an open dialogue with their audience.
Laugh, cry, and yell as these performances bring you into a world of heartfelt words, beautiful refrains, cutting rhymes and ultimately change your expectations around what poetry can be. Drinks will be available for purchase.
And this show’s artists are…
Nick Courmon – Nick Courmon is an international poet, spoken word artist, recording artist, and workshop facilitator from Greensboro, NC. He uses his art to teach African American history, address social justice issues, and advocate for mental health.
In 2024, he was named Poet-in-Residence by the James City Historical Society and also serves as spokesperson for the campaign to free Billie Allen. Nick’s work has been featured in The Drew Barrymore Show, VICE News, NBC’s Today, and Button Poetry, and he’s performed at major events like the NAACP Image Awards Weekend and the National Black Theatre Festival. He has also collaborated with brands and organizations including Beats by Dre, Microsoft, the NAACP, and The King Center. You can learn more about Nick and his work at www.ndcpoetry.com.
Cgraves – Jake Seagraves (Cgraves) is a Raleigh native with a compelling and richly imaginative poetic style who spent most of his adolescence writing about the man he wanted to become. Now he writes about filling the shoes of those expectations.
Saki Taylor – Saki Taylor is a singer-songwriter based in Raleigh, North Carolina. Born in Japan and raised in the U.S., she began writing songs at a young age to process the emotions and unique challenges of straddling two cultures while also navigating the universal complexities of family dynamics.
Influenced by ’90s icons like Jewel and Alanis Morissette, Saki’s songwriting combines stripped down melodies with haunting, vulnerable lyricism. Her music explores what it means to encounter oneself while connecting with others, journeying through loss, grief, and anger toward hope, joy, and resilience.
About the host:
Holding all this artistry together, your show will be hosted by the one and only Krystal Da Muse, the hostest with the mostest, here to ensure a seamless and beautiful experience.
While there are myriad ways to describe Miss Da Muse, the words of designer and illustrator Christoph Niemann are astoundingly relevant: “Amateurs wait for inspiration, professionals simply get up and go to work.” From executively producing one of the largest black tie poetry events in North Carolina (Inkspired), facilitating a monthly Gospel Open Mic, to being on stages with various celebrities such as Big Freedia, Tank and the Bangas, and Mike Epps, she has touched every level of entertainment with her gift.
About The Portal HQ:
The Portal HQ is more than just a venue—it’s a vibrant creative playground designed to bring people together and spark inspiration. Founded by NC State alumni, The Portal HQ was born from a shared vision: to create a space where creativity thrives and community flourishes.
At its core, The Portal HQ is about connection—connecting artists, innovators, and community members in a space that celebrates collaboration and creativity. It’s not just where events happen; it’s where ideas come to life.
*Artist performances may involve mature themes and alcohol will be served.
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