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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.

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Our recent poetry recommendations

Grassroots food'n'film fundraiser featuring two illuminating shorts: in My Neighbourhood, Mohammed must suddenly share his family home in East Jerusalem with Israeli settlers, while Free Running Gaza shows parkour as a means of temporary escape from the constant oppression in Khan Younis refugee camp. Palestine Film Fundraiser - My Neighbourhood and Free Running Gaza at The Arc.

Sell out warning! Guardian columnist extraordinaire Owen Jones rings the death knell for Western superpowers, launching his explosive new tome in person with former Green leader Carla Denyer MP. Laying bare the 21st century's parade of arrogance and economic failures, Jones shows how the elite's crumbling façade paved the way for the migrant-baiting insecurities of today. The Fall of the West launch - Owen Jones in conversation with Carla Denyer at The Station.

Save House of Boussé from a Computer Hearts fate! Plug in for a four tunnel immersion into the Matrix featuring VRGF’s cyber-pop, Ani Klang hacking the hard dance mainframe, techno-conceptual performances from iPad clown Petty Nonsense and more. Plus interactive games throughout the night to determine who makes it out alive, or stays trapped in the digiverse forever. HOUSE OF BOUSSÉ ARE TRAPPED IN THE INTERNET at Loco Klub.

A kinetic exorcism of working-class identity and masculine performance, Oona Doherty’s 'Hope Hunt and the Ascension Into Lazarus' is a mutating pastiche of regional archetypes. Best known for 'Hard to Be Soft', an electrifying portrait of her hometown Belfast, the Northern Irish dancer-choreographer’s chameleonic blend of comedy, swagger and grace is unmissable. Hope Hunt and the Ascension into Lazarus at The Mount Without.

What our editors say

“Causing a stir and serving up his blend of honest, observational and comedic stand-up poetry, performance and comedy poet Ade Smith's quick wit, charm and relatability provide quite the occasion. All in the name of rhyme! Widely recognised for his distinct style, blending every day, grit-fused modern life, and dark cynical humour, Ade brings his solo show to The Bristol Fringe for one night only. Frequently travelling the UK spoken word and comedy poetry scene, Ade is also the co-host of Somerset’s hugely popular monthly comedy poetry open mic, ‘Silly Point Poetry’ and a regular to the Bristol poetry scene. Not to be missed.”
From: Ade Smith - Rhymes Against Humanity

“Disruptive Verse is back! We return to KIT FORM on Sunday 25th October for more poetry with purpose. Expect a night of poetry that seeks to tackle and make sense of the times we live in. Everybody is welcome to come and listen, regardless of whether they are fans of poetry or not - the aim of the evening is to provide an emotional outlet and a sense of communality. Where: KIT FORM, Jamaica St, BS2 8JP (~100m from Stokes Croft bus stop Access: KIT FORM has step-free access with a 1cm metal lip at the door. Chairs available and one accessible toilet. If you have any access needs you would like to discuss email [email protected]”
From: Disruptive Verse

“If you have written something come and share it otherwise your stories, Flash/Micro fiction/ poetry won't live. You will find a warm and welcoming environment with a very supportive and friendly audience al willing to listen. FREE ENTRY.”
From: Spoken Word Open Mic

“Spoken Word Open Mic all styles welcomed if you have written it you can read it be it a short story, Flash / Micro - Fiction, poetry extracts from your book it will be welcomed. (Unfortunately we cannot accept comedians). The event is warm, friendly and supportive so come and join us. ENTRY IS FREE”
From: Spoken Word Open Mic

“* Selected films from the International Poetry Film Competition and the Audience Award. * Workshop. * Talk - taking poetry film beyond the screen. * Exclusive interview with BAFTA award screenwriter and poet Dean Atta, plus screening of Two Black Boys in Paradise. * Plenty of time for discussions and chat and to enjoy the harbour. Full programme and times will be available soon.”
From: Poetry Film Festival