A hot mic and chilled coffee

The East 185 street ARABICA presents... ARTS ALIVE! An ongoing series of Arts events engaging audiences with Gallery showings, Live Theater, Vocalists, and Poets.

Last month's featured event was the play; Malcolm's Conversation, a hot stage play that appeared for two nights, Friday, June 11 and Saturday June 12. Friday night's standing room only crowd demonstrates the hunger in the community for accessible arts programming. 

The corner of East 185th and Lasalle will be abuzz again, Friday, July 23, with "Friday Expressions". The frappes and coffee will be chilled and the open mic and gospel offerings will be hot! This is the second time owner/operator Jim Edsall has partnered with Pam Scott to bring Collinwood, "Friday Expressions".

The Observer asked Mr. Edsall about why he was so committed to the arts being a part of his establishment.

"I want my Arabica to be more than just a place to grab a cup of coffee. When I think of some of the classic coffee houses on the east and west coasts, those spots offer the arts as if they were a part of their menu" he said.

Well the menu looks good! The rest of the summer Arabica's Arts Alive Series plans to showcase more music, more theater, and more of what you just might not expect from a coffee house.

The Arabica is located at 818 east 185 and Lasalle. Beat the heat and and explore Collinwood's new Arts venue. Friday Expressions starts at 8pm, on July 23. This group already has a following and tickets are $10 dollars at the door. Get there early, it will be packed!