Celebrated Canadian Spoken Word artist and Order of Ontario recipient, Dwayne Morgan, is set to captivate audiences with five exciting shows across Toronto in November. The series, according to a statement by Sasha Stoltz Publicity, follows Morgan’s recent recognition with the Order of Ontario for his tireless promotion of African Canadian and urban-influenced artists.
Morgan, a two-time Canadian National Poetry Slam Champion, launched his career in 1993 and founded Up From The Roots Entertainment in 1994 to support and create stages for fellow performers. The upcoming residency continues this legacy, showcasing both Morgan’s immense talent and his deep commitment to community.
The November lineup offers a diverse range of spoken word experiences like “Poems in the Key of Life” (Nov 5, 12, & 26 at ConTXT By Trane): A unique collaboration series where Morgan partners with different pianists, Jazz artist Thompson Egbo-Egbo (Part 1), Hip Hop/R&B musician Joel Joseph (Part 2), and Folk/Soul pianist Jennie Laws (Part 3) to explore collaborative interpretations of his work. Each evening features an opening musical performance.
Also, there is “Back Chat” (Nov 19 at ConTXT By Trane): A Spoken Word Poetry showcase featuring artists like Patrick De Belen, A.G., Patrick Walters, Shelly Grace, and Scribe. The unique format includes a Q&A with the audience after each performance.
Also on the cards is “When Brothers Speak 2025” (Nov 22 at the Saint Lawrence Center for The Arts): North America’s largest and longest-running annual showcase of Black male spoken word artists, founded by Morgan in 1999. This year’s event, hosted and curated by Morgan, features Ontario Poet Laureate Testament, former Ontario Poet Laureate Randell Adjei, and international guests Cloud (New Jersey) and Tebe Zalango (Illinois).
Known for his dynamic performances and respected globally, Morgan’s career milestones include performing for Barack Obama, sharing the stage with Russell Peters, opening for Alicia Keys and collaborating with Canadian artists like Drake. His dedication to his craft, which includes 10 albums and co-producing the Toronto Spoken Soul Festival, has earned him numerous accolades, including the African Canadian Achievement Award and the Harry Jerome Award for Excellence in the Arts.
More than just a performance, the November series is a platform to build a lasting legacy for the arts in the community.
Tickets are available on Dwayne Morgan’s website and on ticketmaster.ca.
