Petals and Thorns: A Spoken Word Journey

About the Film:

The brainchild of first-time filmmaker La Toya A. Hampton, MSW aka The Poet Lady Rose and commissioned by Portland Playhouse as part of their Return to Wonderland 2022 short film festival, follows the experience of a group of Black Portland teens--Nathaniel, Aaliyah, Alyssa and Olivia in a 1-week intensive writing and spoken word camp. Follow their journey as they go from novice writers to creating their own poetry, culminating in their triumphant first public performance.

Director: La Toya A. Hampton, MSW aka The Poet Lady Rose

Producers: Charles Grant, Portland Playhouse

La Toya A. Hampton, MSW aka The Poet Lady Rose

www.ThePoetLadyRose.com - @thepoetladyrose all socials

Cast: La Toya A. Hampton, MSW aka The Poet Lady Rose - Camp Facilitator

Nathaniel Tripp Folsom - Youth Poet

Aaliyah Williams - Youth Poet

Olivia Russ - Youth Poet

Alyssa Calhoun - Youth Poet

Film Review: "From visiting the only Black-owned brick-and-mortar bookstore in Portland, Third Eye Books, to the students’ discussion and evolution of their poetry, this story highlights Black excellence and storytelling in a unique and captivating documentary." ~ Willamette Week, 9/23/22

Host or Publisher Alberta Abbey