How many poets can sign up?
We take up to ten poets—no exceptions.
Competing poets pay $10 to buy in.  (Admission included)

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How many poems should I prepare?
Each poet must be prepared to perform 3 poems.  All poems must be your own original work.
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How does elimination work?
First Round: The 3 lowest-scoring poets are eliminated.
Second Round: The 2 lowest-scoring poets are eliminated.
Final Round: The top 3 poets compete for cash prizes.
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How long can each poem be?
Each poem should be 3 minutes long. You have a 10-second grace period. After that, we deduct points for every second you go over.
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When does the timer start?
Your time begins as soon as you engage with the audience (e.g., introducing yourself or the poem, waving, talking, dancing).
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Can I use props, costumes, or music?
No. Props, costumes, or musical accompaniment (e.g., using an aux cord or Bluetooth) will result in automatic elimination. However, vocal music like beatboxing or singing is allowed. Examples of props or costumes include wearing a mask, wearing the poem's subject on any apparel or bringing a handheld object on stage.
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What time should I arrive?
All poets must check in with the host by 7:15 PM. If you arrive after 7:15 PM, you will perform first. If you arrive after 7:30 PM, you forfeit your spot. No exceptions.
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How is the order of performances decided?
First Round: Random draw.
Second and Third Rounds: Based on scores, from highest to lowest.
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Who are the judges?
Five randomly chosen audience members (or teams) serve as judges. The best judges are those who have never attended a poetry slam before. Poets should inform the host if they know any of the selected judges.
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How do the judges score the performances?
Judges score each poem from 0.0 to 10.0, with 0 being the lowest and 10 being the highest score.

 

How will scores work?

Round 1: Top 7 scoring poets​

Round 2: Highest 5 poets' cumulative (round 1 + 2) scores

Round 3: Clean slate, highest top 3 scoring poets 

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Highest 7 scores from round one go to round two.  Round one and two scores are added, highest scores move onto round three. Highest scores in round three are the winners.

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Important Note on Freedom of Expression

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While you have the freedom to say whatever you want during your performance, remember that this freedom does not come without consequences. Your words may evoke strong reactions—audience members may boo, or someone might wish to engage you in conversation about your poem's content afterward.

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Our goal is to create a space where all bodies are welcome, so please ensure that you’re mindful of the impact your words might have. We encourage all poets to check their egos at the door and contribute to a respectful and inclusive environment for everyone involved.