Bristol has always had a thriving poetry scene, hosting a wide range of poetry events throughout the year. Poetry lovers in Bristol are spoilt for choice as there is a diverse selection of events to attend, ranging from poetry slams, spoken word, and open mic nights, to more intimate readings and book launches. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the most noteworthy poetry events in Bristol.
The Bristol Poetry Festival is one of the most highly anticipated events in the Bristol poetry calendar. Held annually, the event showcases the very best in local and international poetry. The festival usually spans over two weeks and includes performances, workshops, and talks by renowned poets and spoken word artists. This is an event that should not be missed by all poetry enthusiasts.
Another exciting poetry event in Bristol is the monthly Blahblahblah hosted by the Bristol Old Vic. This event takes place on the third Monday of every month and offers a fantastic opportunity to experience a line-up of some of the best spoken word artists and poets from all across the country. The event is known for its electrifying atmosphere and audience engagement, and it is not uncommon for the performances to result in standing ovations.
For those who are looking for open mic nights, Bristol has a plethora to choose from. One example is the monthly Milk Poetry event which is held at the Trinity Centre. Milk Poetry is a platform that aims to challenge and inspire audiences while simultaneously supporting emerging talent. The event typically features a mix of nationally recognized and locally sourced talent and is a must-attend for anyone who is passionate about poetry.
The Bristol University Poetry Hub is another fantastic organization that offers a range of events that are open to the public. The group hosts a monthly poetry open mic night, which is entitled ‘Rhyme and Reason,’ where anyone is welcome to come and share their work. The Poetry Hub also regularly organizes workshops and talks, which are centered on specific themes or poetry genres.
The Bristol Poetry Institute is also a great place to check out for those interested in poetry events in the area. The institute is dedicated to promoting and researching poetry and regularly hosts talks, readings, and debates on poetry-related topics. The institute welcomes members of the public to attend their events and offers an excellent way to get involved in the Bristol poetry scene.
For fans of slam poetry, Boiling Point is a monthly event that encourages audiences to engage with the poets by awarding points based on their performances. This event is held at the PATA Negra and is a great opportunity for those who enjoy a high-energy evening of poetry competition.
Another essential part of the Bristol poetry scene is the Bristol Poetry Can, which has been running for over a decade. This group is a poet-led initiative that aims to showcase the best of local and national poetry through their website, exhibitions, video, and audio contents. They also organize events and workshops, which are free to attend and open to everyone.
In conclusion, Bristol is home to an incredibly diverse range of poetry events, all of which are well worth exploring. Whether you are new to the world of poetry or a seasoned enthusiast, there is something here for everyone. So, next time you are looking for a way to spend your evening, why not check out one of the many Bristol poetry events happening near you? You are guaranteed to be inspired, challenged, and entertained.