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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

Lifelines of knowledge, community and safety in hostile times, queer bookshops have always been quiet powerhouses in the fight for liberation, long overdue their day in the sun. AJ West celebrates centuries of shelf-based salvation the globe over in this inspiring new work, launched in conversation with LGBTQ+ historian Jack Shoulder. How Queer Bookshops Changed the World with AJ West at Bookhaus.

Now THIS is how you do a Lynch screening: with the movers-and-shakers of Bristol’s improv scene serenading you Roadhouse-style, getting your Badalamenti juices flowing before Chris Isaak steals all the dark hearts in the singular nightmare of Fire Walk With Me. The keys to Season 3 lie within, don’t get burnt! DAVID LYNCH TRIBUTE: TWIN PEAKS: FIRE WALK WITH ME + PRE SCREENING GIG at SouthBank.

A fascinating half-day symposium exploring how experimental darkroom processes inform the photographic practices of contemporary women, non-binary and trans artists. Expect lively presentations and discussions on techniques from cyanotypes and photograms, to printing on leaves, fruit and fabrics. Art of Experimentation: Alternative Photography at Bristol Folk House.

Free entry! Beyond the watermelon! Through five fruit-themed narrative slices, Ian Wellens’ uniquely ground-up approach elegantly and accessibly chronicles 150 years of Palestine’s past, while diving deep into the stories of its people, culture and land. He joins BPM for this book launch, talk and Q&A rolled into one. A History of Palestine in Five Fruits - Book Launch at Bristol Palestine Museum.

What our editors say

“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

“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

“GAY AS F*CK + SNAPSHOT unite again, for a celebration of sustainability, fashion and queerness 19:00 EXHIBITION (artist stalls, photographers, poetry, djs) 21:00 intermission 21:15 CATWALK 21:45 intermission 22:00 DJs 00:00 END DJs: GUNK 7-8pm Tommy Sinewave 8-9pm IDIORHYTHMIA 9:15-9:45pm Slaggamuffin 10-11pm Hauswife 11-12pm”
From: Sustainable Fashion Week: Queer Joy