Chris Cream and Friends Bring The Encore Open Mic to Camden Oct. 24, 2026
Poet, singer and actor Chris Cream returns to Girl With A Grill for an evening of spoken word featuring women poets, following September’s Poetry on the Waterfront.
Girl With A Grill will host the evening event from 6 to 10 p.m.
CAMDEN – I was introduced to Chris Cream as a poet with a gift for rhyme and reason. His gift for rhyme is musical, and his mastery of reason challenges readers and listeners to think critically.
For example, in his award-winning poem “Guilty,” Cream states: “And no I'm not right either. I've touched more dirt than a street sweeper.”
Chris Cream Performs "GUILTY" life at Planet Rose, Atlantic City at The Alternative Soul Awards.
It seems Cream was not content to simply master poetry.
He also proved he could carry a tune on “I Don’t Have to Be Right,” sharing the microphone with fellow poet Traycee Lynn for a grown-up love song.
Many poets might sing a quick hook, but on this track, Cream and Lynn bring a soulful texture that leaves the listener wanting more. To my ears, the writing and delivery are reminiscent of a modern-day Roberta Flack and Donny Hathaway collaboration.
You can listen to I Don't Have To Right and hear the passion
Over the past few years, Cream has shifted his focus from singing and poetry to acting on the big and small screens. He became a standout in the series Chase Street — think The Wire, set in Camden. The series led to a film built around his character, Grimes. (Both projects have been available for streaming on Tubi.)
Chris Cream at The Light After Dark discussing Grimes at Philly Cam with Raymond Tyler and other poets.
On Sept. 5, 2026, Cream returned to his spoken-word roots with Poetry on the Waterfront at Camden restaurant Girl With A Grill. He invited other poets to share the stage for a successful evening celebrating the art form.
But Cream wanted to do more than host another open mic.
The event also recognized Atlantic City Focus’s Shawn Wright for his platform, The Flow Session. Philadelphia radio personality Tiffany Bacon was honored for her groundbreaking show, Inner City, which brought poets and neo-soul artists to Power 99 in the early 2000s.
Tiffany Bacon Discusses Her Show Inner City
About halfway through the evening, people were already asking Cream when he would host another event.
Now, they have their answer.
Chris Cream and Friends will present The Encore Open Mic on Saturday, Oct. 24, 2026, from 6 to 10 p.m. at Girl With A Grill, 200 N. Broadway in Camden. This time, the event will feature a lineup of women known for bringing the words of their pens to life onstage.
One thing is certain: Chris Cream does not disappoint, whatever platform he chooses. I expect The Encore Open Mic to be a night best experienced in person.
Browse the photo gallery below for highlights from Chris Cream and Friends’ Poetry on the Waterfront, held Sept. 5, 2026.
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The Unity & Heritage Exhibition is on display until December at The African American Heritage Museum Of Southern New Jersey.
