The heat is on at Te Kōputu a te whanga a Toi – the Whakatāne Library and Exhibition Centre – and all local ‘spoken word performers’ are invited.

The Library will host the regional Slam Poetry heat on Wednesday, 27 September, with the national event set to take place on Saturday, 4 November in Hamilton. Doors open at 5:15 pm, and the event will get underway at 5:30 pm.

Anneke Philps, Public Programmes Officer at Te Kōputu, says the first Poetry Slam in 2016 was a huge success, and many of those who took part are expected to return for the regional heat. “We had some truly talented people sharing their journey through the spoken word,” she says. “The audience at a Poetry Slam event also play an important role, because the judges take audience appreciation into account when selecting the winning entry. The community is therefore invited to come along and support these very brave poets on their special night.

“Slam poetry is much more than just reciting a poem,” Ms Philps adds. “It’s an art form that involves the spoken word, expressed through a dramatic performance. Topics can range from fun and frothy to deep and meaningful. It can be about a life-changing event, something the poet is passionate about or an expression of life in general. No props are permitted. Entry is free, and there will be some great prizes up for grabs.”

Poets need to be at least 18 years old, as this event is run under the rules set by Slam Poetry New Zealand.

For more information, see the Whakatāne Library Facebook page or contact the library.