Ever heard of “Pecha Kucha” (pronounced peh-CHAK-cha)? From the Japanese word meaning “chit-chat,” Pechu Kucha has been dubbed “show-and-tell for the 21st century.” It’s essentially a Power Point presentation unlike all the boring ones that lulled you to sleep in dim lecture halls. Rather, it’s interesting, informative, and often very funny. What makes it special is that it’s rapid-fire: the presenters show 20 slides, each for only 20 seconds. The slides generally have very few words on them – you’re supposed to listen and look, not read info.

Baltimore Avenue’s Studio 34 has played host to several Philly Pecha Kucha presentations in the past, and this Saturday (Jan.30) will be the fourth installment. Studio 34 is a great venue for the fun and laid-back mini-lectures. The airy yoga studio is something of a community arts haven, regularly hosting shows, talks, and other great events.

This installment is titled “Start it Up Night,” and will put the spotlight on West Philly itself, focusing on local people who turned their ambitions into reality. There will be eleven presentations on topics ranging from the Paul Robeson House (paulrobesonhouse.org) to Philadelphia Rooftop Farms (philadelphiarooftopfarm.org) to starting a cupcake truck (buttercreamphiladelphia.com). Click here to check out the full list of presenters.

Pecha Kuchas have been popping up all over the country, and Philly is leading the way. With a suggested donation of just $5, checking out this unique event is a fun, interesting, and social way to spend an evening. I’ll see you there!

Show and Tell: Pecha Kucha Night
Saturday, January 30th, 7:30pm
http://pecha-kucha.org/night/philadelphia
Studio 34 Yoga, Healing, Arts
4522 Baltimore Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19143
(215) 387-3434
studio34yoga.com