What's On / Bristol Concerts, Theatre & Dance / poetry

Poetry & Spoken Word Events in Bristol

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Bristol's Poetry Scene

At the time of writing there are very few regular poetry events in Bristol. Milk hosts regular nights at Halo on Gloucester Road and The Wardrobe Theatre in Old Market. Hammer & Tongue occasionally bring their poetry slams to town and have used The Grain Barge for past events. Stand Up For Lyricism promotes poetry events in south Bristol at The Rope Walk and Tobacco Factory Theatre.

Buy tickets for poetry events in Bristol

What our editors say

“Fancy a night of laughter, poetry, monologues, music, and more! Then come on down to the Canopy in Redcatch Community Gardens for our multidisciplinary open mic! Doors: 18:30 Start: 19:00 Want to perfrom? Email us on [email protected] with a bit about you.”
From: Veg Patch - An Open Mic

“Come and kindle the bright fire with: - Grounded yet dynamic movement to awaken the body-mind - Breath practices to cultivate inner fire - A heart-centred yoga nidra to listen deeply to intention - A candle-lit poetry ritual to nourish what is coming into being - Shared snacks and warm drinks to close and ground the work”
From: Bright Fire: A Beltane Yoga & Ritual Gathering

“This month features poetry film by Bristol Refugee Arts Collective (BRAC). BRAC is currently 14 refugee artists from 12 countries. Five artists from BRAC took part in the Poetry Film project which is supported by Lyra Festival. The Poetry Film Club features carefully selected films, guest artists, and relaxed, guided conversations. It’s a welcoming space for filmmakers, poets, students, academics, and anyone curious about creative storytelling.”
From: Poetry Film Club

“Sexquisite Events are an award winning performing arts company platforming the hottest sex worker artists, creating fierce, political and multi-disciplinary work. Come along to our bad bitch cabaret to celebrate how multi-talented + powerful sex workers are. You can expect: dance, burlesque, spoken word, song, comedy, pole + more! By supporting Sexquisite you are enabling us to create paid creative opportunities for those who work in the sex industry. Alongside this you are supporting us in our mission to destigmatise sex work through performance.”
From: SEXQUISITE BRISTOL

“If you were dazzled by Ben’s previous novels The Topeka School, 10:04 and Leaving The Atocha Station, as well as his variously acclaimed poetry collections and writings on related subjects, you’ll know that this whole thing is a bit of a one-off, so don’t sleep on tickets.”
From: Ben Lerner: Transcription