Blending slam poetry, hip-hop, storytelling and Judaism, Penn State Hillel's poetry slam night is sure to mix things up.

Featuring novelist and performance poet Matthue Roth and the appearance of other local poets, the poetry slam is set for Wednesday, Jan. 19 at 9 p.m. at the Candy Bar and Lounge, 129 S. Pugh St.

Having appeared on HBO's Def Poetry Jam series, Matthue Roth combines his Orthodox Judaism experience with sometimes erotic and deep material in always an energetic performance.

"I grew up going to rock shows and hip-hop concerts and that's what I want to see when I go to a show," said Philadelphia native Matthue Roth.

"And that's what I try to give to my audience," he added.

For Hillel, the poetry slam is expected to be the first in a series of coffeehouse events with performers tied to the Jewish experience.

"I was just thinking of ways to experience Jewish culture in a different way. I was thinking of storytellers and musicians. I came across Roth's poems and they were really interesting," Dave Meckley, Hillel advisor, said.

Meckley said Roth's material is edgy and racy and at the same time connected with an intense Jewish feeling.

Roth has written and self-published several poetry chapbooks, including Yom Kippur A Go-Go and A Child's Garden of Gender. Roth's Penn State performance will mark his first upon the release of his first novel titled Never Mind the Goldbergs.

However according to Roth, his choice in pieces he performs for his show will most likely depend on the audience.

"When you get onstage, you have no idea what's going to come out of your mouth. [Performing] is just like having a conversation between me and the audience. If I do a funny poem and if that's what people want, then I'll stick with that," said Roth.

Hillel President Lily Matusiak (sophomore-history) hopes the poetry slam is a step in a new direction in regards to social events targeting, but certainlynot limited to, the Jewish community.

"We're a real social group. It could be playing pool, going to the Tall Shiva Hookah Lounge, or playing Frisbee. So, this is just another opportunity for people to have fun and to hang out," said Matusiak.

Providing music from a DJ and some refreshments at no cost, Hillel welcomes all to attend, said Meckley.

"Matthue might be pushing some limits for some people, but he's really, really clever," said Matusiak.

"I think the poetry slam is [going to be] great and I hope everyone is there. It's going to be an amazing night," she added.

Poets interested in performing in the Wednesday night's poetry slam can contact Hillel Social Chair Laura Taylor at lbt111@psu.edu.