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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.

Buy tickets for poetry events in Bristol

Our recent poetry recommendations

Sell out warning! An inspired evening of readings and literary performance riffing on the revelatory ideas nestled within Robin Wall Kimmerer's Braiding Sweetgrass. Less a book, more a ceremony weaving indigenous eco-knowledge into Western thought - you don’t have to have read it in advance, but you really should! THIS IS NOT A BOOKCLUB "Braiding Sweetgrass" at Bristol Folk House.

Sell out warning! Bin Nolan! And descend into the mysteries of the ancient world with Crick Crack Club thespian and live performance storyteller Lucy Lill. She reimagines the words of Greece’s doom-dealing oracles, exploring their otherworldly power and the fine line between divine wisdom and political theatre. No refunds for bad omens… DOOM SCROLLS - the never-ending prophecies of the Sibyls at The Cube.

Sell out warning! West of England Design forum host the event of the year for illustrators, copywriters, web designers and all-round graphics bods. They’re bringing together four top speakers to explore the depths of language and visual communication, including Adobe / Google / 8 Faces typography svengali Elliot Jay Stocks + big brand scribe extraordinaire Sabrina Shim. UNION at Lantern Hall, Bristol Beacon.

Sell out warning! Ever wondered if your noble mission to save the world has wandered into the swamp of sanctimony? Author Anthea Lawson and organiser Liam Barrington-Bush discuss how to make positive change without getting lost in self-certainty, exploring how campaigners can stay open, humane and connected in the messy work of collective change. How Not to Save the World: Doing Good Without Annoying Everyone at Bookhaus.

What our editors say

“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

“Whether you’re a seasoned performer, a first-timer testing out new material, or just along for the ride, our open mic is all about great performances, good company and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Expect an ever-changing mix of live music, poetry, spoken word, comedy and the unexpected. Anything can happen once the mic is live!”
From: Ill Repute Open Mic Night