Lukas Gage, Coco Mellors Read at Dream Baby Press Salon in NYC Burger King

A literary salon hosted by Dream Baby Press took place last night at a Burger King in New York City’s Financial District, featuring readings from actors and authors including Lukas Gage and Coco Mellors.

“The White Lotus” actor Lukas Gage read a poem sourced from a tweet by a “Real Housewives of Salt Lake City” star, including lines such as “Her hot dog outfits remind us that she sucked her way to the top” and “She doesn’t listen because her ears are stitched down to her face so tight she can’t hear.” Novelist Coco Mellors presented a reading from her upcoming book, described as a “hilarious, heartbreaking and bloody body horror-love story.” Other contributors included Dream Baby Press founder Matt Starr, who read from his poetry book “Mouthful,” and novelist Sam Lansky, who performed a poem written when he was 13.

Carole Radziwill, a former ABC producer, also participated, recalling a past encounter with Bruce Springsteen. The event, which included an impromptu performance by a street performer, was catered by Burger King, with owners Deveen and Myra managing food and beverages. Dream Baby Press has become known for its unconventional literary events, often held in unexpected locations – a strategy that challenges traditional publishing norms and attracts a diverse audience. For more on independent publishing, see Publishers Weekly.

The readings offered a glimpse into forthcoming works and personal anecdotes, drawing a crowd to the fast-food restaurant for an evening of literature and performance. Further events from Dream Baby Press are expected to be announced on their official website.