pdf - National Poetry Slam

Table of Contents
Welcome to NPS 2016………………………………………………...2
Greeting from the City of Decatur………………………………….3
Poetry Slam, Inc. Mission Statement and Code of Conduct.…4
Photography and Video Rules………………………………………5
How NPS Works………………………………………………………...6
Competing Teams……………………………………………………..8
Preliminary Competition Schedule…….…………………………..9
Venues…………………………………………………………………..13
Venues Accessibilty Chart…………………………………………..14
Condensed Schedule...………………………………………………15
Schedule of Events…………………………………………………….17
Who Did What (if you must know)…………………………………..30
Sponsors and Partners………………………………………………...38
Save The Dates…………………………………………………………40
Where you can find us online
Website - www.npsdecatur.com
Twitter - @nationalslam
Facebook – /NationalPoetrySlam
Want to keep up with the competition online? Follow NPS on
social media for photos, updates, and more! Be sure to hashtag
your posts with #NPSDecatur and let us know how you’re
enjoying Nationals!
1
Dear Slam Family and Fans,
Welcome to the 27th annual National Poetry Slam in
the heart of Decatur - where you know it’s greater!
This week, 72 teams from the United States and
Canada will fight tooth and nail for the favor of the
discerning and eager crowds in Atlanta. During the
day, participants and spectators will enjoy themed
open mics (Poems and Pasties Burlesque, Ratchet to
Righteous, and Haiku, to name a few); writing and performance workshops;
and a community block party in the eclectic Decatur Square. Then, at night,
poets will put their game faces on and get ready to defeat their opponents in
the most fierce literary battle the spoken word movement has to offer. This
intense five days of poetic sparring will culminate in the National Poetry Slam
Finals on Saturday night at the Georgia World Congress Center Sydney
Marcus Auditorium in downtown Atlanta, featuring the tournament’s final four
teams as well as a showcase of some of the week’s best performances.
In addition to the competition, we encourage you to explore. There are plenty
of places to go and sights to see in Decatur and Atlanta, and the NPS
Decatur website features a list of places to eat in the area. We invite you to
take a walk through our city in a forest and dig into its unique history while
you are here. Decatur is full of charming boutiques, clandestine pubs,
farm-to-table restaurants, and quirky characters. And, downtown Atlanta is
accessible via MARTA (get your Breeze card) or a short Lyft or Uber ride.
There, you’ll find the Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, Martin Luther
King, Jr.’s birthplace, and we are hosting a screening and panel discussion of
the documentary “3 Minute Activists: The Soul of Slam” at the National Center
for Civil & Human Rights on Tuesday, August 2, 2016.
We have worked hard to make sure that you feel welcomed and loved
during this festival and we know that you will relish that infamous southern
hospitality. Thank you to the NPS Decatur Host City Committee, DO Strategy
Group, the City of Decatur, all of our sponsors, and all of the venues who are
allowing us to call their spaces home this week.
Now, grab a glass of sweet tea and prepare yourself to love, listen, and be
inspired by the works of hundreds of performers. Poets, volunteers, slam
fanatics, and listeners who just stumbled in to see what the excitement is,
we’re so glad you’re here. Now, get ready to hear some poetry!
Sincerely,
Your NPS Host City Team!
2
Welcome To Decatur
The City of Decatur has a number of festivals and events each
year that draw people from all over the world and from
different cultures and backgrounds, therefore, our events staff,
police staff and fire staff are well versed in making everyone feel
welcome in the City of Decatur.
The City of Decatur is looking forward to having you all in our City
and we will do our part to make sure that everyone is safe and
has a good time!
Here are some basic ordinances to be aware of:
No solicitation of any form.
No open alcohol containers in parks, public areas or in
vehicles while driving or riding.
Noise ordinance is in effect from 11:00pm-7:00am-no loud
talking, yelling, music or noise of any kind in public areas to
include parks, sidewalks, outside of businesses, etc.
No smoking of cigarettes, e-cigarettes or any tobacco
product on sidewalks, parks or any public spaces.
No loitering of any kind that would cause suspicion by
residents or shop owner.
3
PSi Mission Statement
The mission of Poetry Slam Incorporated (PSi) is to promote the performance
and creation of poetry while cultivating literary activities and spoken word
events in order to build audience participation, stimulate creativity, awaken
minds, foster education, inspire mentoring, encourage artistic statement and
engage communities worldwide in the revelry of language
Code Of Conduct
By being a member of Poetry Slam, Inc., I agree to the following statements:
I will know and understand the obligations stated in the PSi Values Statement
and Policy, and the ideals expressed therein, and I will strive to incorporate
them in my daily life.
I will respect the dignity of all persons; therefore, I will not physically, mentally,
psychologically or sexually abuse any human being.
I understand that verbal harassment, physical aggression or intolerance are
unacceptable in poetry slam.
I will comply with local, state and federal laws pertaining to individual civil
rights and physical or sexual harassment.
I will revel in an environment in which freedom of speech, self-determination,
and pursuit of creative excellence are inalienable rights.
I will participate in poetry slam events in a way that encourages, illuminates
and supports established standards of good sportsmanship.
I refuse to allow the competitive challenge of the game to lead me to
violence, interference, or direct threats.
I will allow all participants to pursue their craft peacefully and without
censure, regardless of present team associations or past personal history.
I will abide by competition rules as defined by Poetry Slam, Inc., knowing that
the consequences for breaking the rules exist and are upheld. Penalties will
be determined by the severity of the infraction, and the ruling of the presiding
NPS Protest Committee and/or the PSI Executive Council.
I will be a fair poet – one who in competition is fair and generous, one who
in any connection has recourse to nothing illegitimate; a poet who in defeat
demonstrates grace and in victory magnanimity.
I understand that if I am found engaging in activities that are contrary to the
values and code of conduct stated here, this Code of Conduct will be
enforced. If necessary, actions leading to individual suspension or expulsion,
or to the suspension or revocation of a venue’s certification, may be initiated
to ensure compliance.
Remember: “The show and the show’s effect upon the audience are more
important than any one individual’s contribution to it.” - Marc Smith
Photography at the National Poetry Slam
We love great pictures! However, the point of this event is the poetry
and the performances. If you’re interested in taking pictures at NPS
2016, there are a few things you need to know:
You must have written permission from either PSi or the National
Poetry Slam to take photos at the event. To obtain the form to
do so, visit
www.nationalpoetryslam.com/press-info.
Photography must not be a distraction from the poetry. No flash
photography is allowed, and we ask that you do not use
photography as an excuse to move around the venue during a
performance.
Only photographers on assignment from media outlets and
official National Poetry Slam photographers will be credentialed
with Press Passes to take photos at the event. If you are with a
media organization and would like permission to shoot, email
info@npsdecatur.com with information about the media outlet
and assignment. If you have other questions about shooting at
NPS events, email:
executivedirector@poetryslam.com.
Commercial use of photography of NPS events requires the
express written permission of Poetry Slam, Inc.
To share your photos with the official NPS photography team, email
info@.poetryslam.com. We’ll be looking for a few great photos to
share from each event and would love a chance to see yours!
Video and Recording at the
National Poetry Slam
No video or audio recording is permitted at any National Poetry Slam
event without the express written permission of Poetry Slam, Inc
5
How the National Poetry Slam works
Welcome! If you’re reading this, then
you’ve made it to the National Poetry
Slam 2016! That means it’s time to get
excited! Those of you who are rookies
(or simply members of the audience
who have never seen a live poetry
slam
before and may be asked to judge
the poetry on stage) are probably
thinking: Oh my god, I’m at the
National Poetry Slam. What the hell is
going on?
So here, for your benefit, is A BRIEF
GUIDE TO WHAT THE HELL IS GOING
ON, with some tips on how not to ruin
everything for yourself (& everybody
else):
This may be a national event with a
championship title on the line, but
you matter way more than anybody
talking into that mic tonight. We mean
it—this poetry slam thing all started
because we wanted to create a great
new way for folks like you to love and
connect with poetry. We wouldn’t be
here without you guys. So thank you
for coming and have a great time!
Here are some tips for the week:
DO listen, enjoy, and love the poetry
and the poets. If you hear something
that changes your life, your brain, your
everything, then after the bout is
finished, you should go and tell the
poet how much you appreciate their
work!
DO ask poets whose work you loved
if they have any merchandise to sell.
Many people will have chapbooks
and CDs available for purchase, so
that you can take some of their
neuron-changing awesomeness home
with you.
DO be raucous and excitable. Your
host will tell you all about how much
poets love immediate and audible
reactions during their poems:
applause, whoops of appreciation,
etc. Poets get nervous up on stage,
even if they’ve been doing this for
years, so don’t be too shy about
showing your support for the
performers.
DON’T make distracting, not-relatedto-poetry noises. Don’t chat up new
friends at the bar. Don’t answer your
cell phone (because you
remembered to silence it BEFORE
the bout, right?) Try not to have an
unrelenting coughing fit.
DON’T take photos or videos of the
poets if you don’t have a press pass
AND have the permission of the
performer.
Secret filming is creepy, and just
straight-up rude.
DON’T approach poets or coaches
during the competition. They will
have more time (and not to mention
be much more fun to talk to) after
the bout is done.
FOR JUDGES
Lucky you! Somebody has handed
you a stack of scorecards or a
whiteboard, and now you get to
judge how this whole game goes
down. Your host is going to explain
the rules to you very quickly. Don’t
be intimidated. It’s easy to be a
really good judge if you just follow
some simple guidelines:
BE CONSISTENT. This is actually the
only thing you need to know in order
to be a good judge. Let’s talk about
something we call “score creep.” For
How the National Poetry Slam works
some reason, judges have a
tendency to give out higher and
higher scores as the night goes by.
But what if you heard the best poem
of the whole night during the first
round? Here’s an easy trick: when
the sacrificial poet goes up, pay
extra attention. Write down the score
you gave them somewhere you can
easily check, like in the corner of
your whiteboard—from now on,
every time a poet reads a poem,
ask yourself: was it better than the
sacrificial poet? If yes, higher score. If
no, lower score. Easy, right?
DON’T get so drunk that you can’t
understand the poetry. Are you
blitzed? Pay extra attention. And
maybe switch to soda for a few
rounds.
DON’T let the audience intimidate
you. Yes, the audience: the unwashed masses grumbling about
those perfect scores you just aren’t
shelling out. Remember, you’re the
one with “officially-sanctioned”
good taste!
DON’T get too focused on either
performance OR poetry; remember
that you are judging a performance
art, and that the National Poetry
Slam champions need both stellar
writing skills AND great performance
chops.
DON’T put appearance before art.
Rate the poetry, not the poet!
DON’T forget to have a good time!
You can take this whole judging
thing as seriously as you want, but
in the end, the poetry (and being
moved by the poetry) is why we
asked you to judge
FOR NEW COMPETITORS
Welcome to the National Poetry
Slam! You and more than 400 of your
brand-new best friends are about to
be the talk of the town for an entire
week. If you play this right, it could be
the best time of your entire life...until
you come back next year, of course.
Here are some tips to help:
DO share your poetry in cyphers.
You can find these almost any place
there are
poets for the next couple of nights.
DO make new friends. Competitors,
audience, staff, volunteers: all these
people are here because they love
poetry. How often do you get to
hang out with this many people all
at once who care about art? It’s a
great chance to meet amazing folks
you couldn’t have found without this
crazy game we play.
DO practice good show etiquette:
show up early for your bouts, listen
to your bout manager, and don’t
harass your hosts. Clap for everybody
that gets up on that stage! Clap for
people you’re bouting against! Don’t
be nice, but do be kind!
DON’T be drunk and belligerent. Self
control is nice, not to mention healthier for everyone.
DON’T get all wrapped up in the
competition. Rock your poem like
you’re on Finals stage every night,
and if your team is eliminated early,
don’t forget to enjoy the awesomeness that is NPS.
Remember that the most important
team is “Team Poet”, and everyone
you meet this week is on that team,
including you. If you take the time to
really listen to the other poems in your
bout, you are more likely to have a
good time, learn more cool things
about being alive, pick up some
new tricks to try in your own work
and
remember what poetry slam was
created for: to make audiences
(which includes you) listen to poetry.
FOR RETURNING COMPETITORS
Welcome back! Now read the rookie
advice. I bet you think that song isn’t
about you. Well, it is.
COMPETING TEAMS
7HillsSlam Worcester, MA
Ann Arbor Poetry Slam
Art Amok
Austin NeoSoul
Austin Poetry Slam Team
BamaSlam
Boston Poetry Slam
Breaking Bad Poetry
Brooklyn Slam
Dada poetry slam
Dallas Poetry Slam
Eclectic Truth
Fort Worth Poetry Slams
Freshwater Wordsmiths
House Slam
Houston Poetry Slam
Houston VIP Poetry Slam
Java Monkey Slam
Jersey City Slam
Lake Effect Poetry
Lizard Lounge Poetry Slam Team
LoserSlam
Northampton Poetry
Olympia People’s Mic
Portland Poetry Slam
Providence Poetry Slam
Pure Ink Poetry
PuroSlam
Rain City Slam
Rock Slam
Seattle Poetry Slam
Slam Free or Die
Slam New Orleans
Slammageddon Baltimore
SlamULIT
Spokane Poetry Slam
Steel City Slam
Team Olympus (S.A.F.E.)
Upstate SC “Say What” Slam
Team
Urban Echo
UrbSlam Saint Louis
VanSlam
Verbal Slap
WeSpoke
Write About Now
Writing Wrongs
Advanced
Alchemy Slam
Bowery Poetry Slam
Union Square Slam
Nuyorican Poets Cafe
Flagslam
Mental Graffiti
Mill City
The Oddfellowship (Asheville)
Uptown Poetry Slam (Green Mill)
Urban Spoken Word
HawaiiSlam
Twin Cities Slam
Boise Poetry Slam
Salt Lake Unified
ABQ Slam Team
Battle Born Slam
OM Center Poetry Slam
SlamCharlotte
DPL Slam
San Diego PoetrySLAM
Bull City Slam
Marquis Slam
Hear Here
Busboys and Poets’ Beltway
Burlington Ontario
Preliminary Competition Schedule - Tuesday - Thursday
Over the first three days of NPS, the tournament’s 72 teams each compete in two preliminary bouts. Follow along with your local favorites or
discover celebrities from across the continent... But plan to get there
early for the show! Doors open at 6:30pm for the 7pm show, then the
room clears at 8:30pm for the 9pm show. Cover is $7 for all prelims
Tuesday,
August 2nd, 7pm
Bout #1 - Java Monkey Coffee
The Oddfellowship (Asheville)
Ann Arbor Poetry Slam
Houston VIP Poetry Slam
7HillsSlam Worcester, MA
Bout #2 - Little Shop of Stories
Tuesday,
August 2nd, 9pm
Bout #7 - Java Monkey Coffee
BamaSlam
Austin NeoSoul
Freshwater Wordsmiths
Writing Wrongs
Bout #8 - Little Shop of Stories
Slammageddon Baltimore
DPL Slam
Busboys and Poets’ Beltway
Hear Here
Lizard Lounge Poetry Slam Team
Providence Poetry Slam
Houston Poetry Slam
San Diego PoetrySLAM
Bout #3 - School of Ballet
(Studio 2)
Bout #9 - School of Ballet
(Studio 2)
Dallas Poetry Slam
Breaking Bad Poetry
Bull City Slam
Spokane Poetry Slam
Bout #4 - Library Conference Rm
Marquis Slam
Steel City Slam
HawaiiSlam
OM Center Poetry Slam
Bout #5 - Library Auditorium
Seattle Poetry Slam
Upstate SC “Say What” Slam Team
Jersey City Slam
Verbal Slap
Bout #6 - School of Ballet
(Studio 1)
Bowery Poetry Slam
Twin Cities Slam
SlamULIT
Urban Echo
LoserSlam
Pure Ink Poetry
Mill City
Burlington Ontario
Bout #10 - Library Conference Rm
Uptown Poetry Slam (Green Mill)
Mental Graffiti
Art Amok
Boston Poetry Slam
Bout #11- Library Auditorium
Alchemy Slam
Slam New Orleans
Rock Slam
Advanced
Bout #12- School of Ballet
(Studio 1)
Flagslam
Java Monkey Slam
SlamCharlotte
Battle Born Slam
Wednesday,
August 3rd, 7pm
Bout #13 Java Monkey Coffee
House Slam
Union Square Slam
Write About Now
Austin Poetry Slam Team
Bout #14 Sycamore Place Gallery
VanSlam
Slam Free or Die
Fort Worth Poetry Slams
PuroSlam
Bout #15 Library Conference Rm
Urban Spoken Word
Salt Lake Unified
Dada poetry slam
Brooklyn Slam
Bout #16 Library Auditorium
Rain City Slam
Northampton Poetry
Olympia People’s Mic
UrbSlam Saint Louis
Bout #17 School of Ballet (Studio 1)
WeSpoke
Eclectic Truth
Lake Effect Poetry
Nuyorican Poets Cafe
Bout #18 - Little Shop of Stories
Team Olympus (S.A.F.E.)
ABQ Slam Team
Boise Poetry Slam
Portland Poetry Slam
Wednesday,
August 3rd, 9pm
Bout #19 Java Monkey Coffee
Verbal Slap
HawaiiSlam
Breaking Bad Poetry
Slammageddon Baltimore
Bout #20 Sycamore Place Gallery
Jersey City Slam
Steel City Slam
Dallas Poetry Slam
Bowery Poetry Slam
Bout #21 Library Conference Rm
Upstate SC “Say What” Slam Team
Marquis Slam
Twin Cities Slam
7HillsSlam Worcester, MA
Bout #22 Library Auditorium
Seattle Poetry Slam
SlamULIT
Hear Here
Houston VIP Poetry Slam
Bout # 23 School of Ballet (Studio 1)
Urban Echo
Spokane Poetry Slam
Busboys and Poets’ Beltway
Ann Arbor Poetry Slam
Bout #24 Little Shop of Stories
OM Center Poetry Slam
Bull City Slam
DPL Slam
The Oddfellowship (Asheville)
Thursday,
August 4th, 7pm
Thursday,
August 4th, 9pm
Bout #25 Little Shop of Stories
Bout #31 Little Shop of Stories
Advanced
Art Amok
Pure Ink Poetry
Lizard Lounge Poetry Slam Team
Bout #26 Java Monkey Coffee
Rock Slam
Mental Graffiti
LoserSlam
Flagslam
Bout #27 Library Auditorium
Slam New Orleans
Uptown Poetry Slam (Green Mill)
Java Monkey Slam
Writing Wrongs
Bout #28 Library Conference Rm
Alchemy Slam
SlamCharlotte
San Diego PoetrySLAM
Freshwater Wordsmiths
Bout #29
CORE Dance Studio
Battle Born Slam
Burlington Ontario
Houston Poetry Slam
Austin NeoSoul
Bout #30 City Hall Commissioner Rm
Boston Poetry Slam
Mill City
Providence Poetry Slam
BamaSlam
Nuyorican Poets Cafe
Olympia People’s Mic
Salt Lake Unified
VanSlam
Bout #32 Java Monkey Coffee
Lake Effect Poetry
Northampton Poetry
Urban Spoken Word
Team Olympus (S.A.F.E.)
Bout #33 Library Auditorium
Eclectic Truth
Rain City Slam
ABQ Slam Team
Austin Poetry Slam Team
Bout #34 Library Conference Rm
WeSpoke
Boise Poetry Slam
PuroSlam
Write About Now
Bout #35 CORE Dance Studio
Portland Poetry Slam
Brooklyn Slam
Fort Worth Poetry Slams
Union Square Slam
Bout #36 City Hall Commissioner Rm
UrbSlam Saint Louis
Dada poetry slam
Slam Free or Die
House Slam
11
12
Venues
Courtyard Marriott Decatur Downtown
130 Clairemont Ave.
Decatur Arts Alliance
113 Clairemont Ave
Ebster Recreation Center
105 Electric Ave.
DeKalb County Public Library (Theater & Conference Room)
215 Sycamore St.
Decatur School of Ballet (Church St. Studio 1 & 2)
102 Church St
Java Monkey Oranic Coffee & Wine Bar
425 Church St
Little Shop of Stories
133 E Court Square # A
Sycamore Place Gallery (WED. ONLY)
120 Sycamore Pl.
Decatur City Hall Commissioners Rm (THURS. ONLY)
509 N McDonough St.
Core Dance Studio
133 Sycamore St.
Agnes Scott College Presser Hall
141 E College Ave.
Decatur CoWorkss (OFC = Office, HS = House)
708 Church St.
Decatur Performing Arts Theater
310 N. McDonough St.
National Center for Civil and Human Rights
100 Ivan Allen Jr Blvd NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
Georgia World Congress Center Sidney Marcus Auditorium
285 Andrew Young International Blvd NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
13
Venue
Accessibility Chart
Entrance
No. Steps/
Ramp
Stage
No. Steps/
Ramp
Restroom
Gender
Nuetral
Restroom
Accessible
Seating
Distance
Courtyard Marriott
0 Steps
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
Decatur Art Alliance
Welcome Center
0 Steps
N/A
Yes
Yes
N/A
355 ft.
Ebster Recreation
Center Gym
Ramps or
Steps
Ramps or
Steps
No
Yes
Row
Seating
.6
MIles
***DeKalb County
Public Library
Theater
0 Steps
3 Steps
0 Ramps
Yes
Yes
Auditorium
w/Wheel chair
Space
.3
Miles
***DeKalb County
Public Library
Conference Rm
0 Steps
0 Steps
Yes
Yes
Row
Seating
.3
Miles
Decatur School of
Ballet Church St
0 Steps
0 Steps
Yes
Yes
Row
Seating
.6
Miles
**Java Monkey
0 Steps
1 Step
0 Ramps
Yes
Yes
Row
Seating
.2
Miles
Little Shop of Stories
0 Steps
0 Steps
Yes
Yes
Sycamore Place
Gallery
Row
Seating
.2
Miles
0 Steps
0 Steps
Yes
Yes
Row
Seating
.6
Miles
0 Steps
0 Steps
No
Yes
Row
Seating
.3
Miles
Core Dance Studio A
0 Steps
0 Steps
Yes
Yes
Agnes Scott
College
Presser Hall
Row
Seating
.3
Miles
Ramps or
Steps
Lift or Steps
Yes
Yes
Auditorium
w/Wheel chair
Space
.7
Miles
Ramps
0 Steps
Yes
Yes
***Decatur High School
Performing Arts
Theater
Row
Seating
.2
Miles
Ramps or
Steps
Ramps or
Steps
No
Yes
Auditorium
w/Wheel chair
Space
.6
Miles
Ramps or
Steps
Ramps or
Steps
No
Yes
Auditorium
w/Wheel chair
Space
6.9
Miles
Nationals Center for
Civil and Human Rights
Ramps or
Steps
N/A
Yes
Row
Seating
5.63
Miles
Decatur City Hall
Commissioner Room
Decatur CoWorkss
GWCC Sidney
Marcus
Auditorium
DeKalb County Public Library’s ADA Compliance is based on old standards and may have some
minor restrictions.
**Venue has outdoor ventilation or fans.
***NO Food or drinks allowed.
Java Monkey Organic Coffee & Wine Bar is the only venue that sells food & drinks.
All venues have basic lighting. Auditoriums will use simple stage lighting.
All venues smoke free areas.
CONDENSED SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
Monday August 1st
2pm-5pm Early Team Registration - Library Conference Rm
6pm-7pm
Volunteer Registration & Pass Pick up - Library Theater
7pm-8pm Ribbon Cutting Ceremony - Decatur Welcome Center
8pm-9:30pm Welcome Party reception - Decatur Welcome Center
Tuesday August 2nd
9am - 10am
The Rub - Meet at Gazebo
10am - 11:45am
Rookie Showcase - Java Monkey
10am - 12pm
Team Registration - Library Conference Rm
12:30pm - 4pm ”3 Minute Activists” CCHR
1pm - 2:30pm
Orientation - Ebster Recreation Center
7pm - 8:30pm
Prelim Bouts-Early
DeKalb County Public Library Theater,
DeKalb County Public Library Conference Rm,
Little Shop of Stories, Java Monkey,
Decatur School of Ballet Church St (Studio 1&2)
9pm - 10:30pm Prelim Bouts-Late
DeKalb County Public Library Theater,
DeKalb County Public Library Conference Rm,
Little Shop of Stories, Java Monkey,
Decatur School of Ballet Church St (Studio 1&2)
Poetry & Pasties - CORE Dance Studio
Poetic Debauchery - Decatur CO Works (OFC)
11pm-1am 11pm-1am Wednesday August 3rd
8:30am-9:30am
Yoga - Meet at Gazebo
10am-11:45am Living From Your Dreams - Java Monkey
10am-11:45am Mommas & Poppas - Little Shop of Stories
10am-11:45am Slam 101 - Decatur CO Works (HS)
1pm - 2:45pm
Head 2 Head Haiku - Library Theater
1pm - 2:45pm
People of the Sun - Library Conference Rm
1pm - 2:45pm Gender Outlaws - Java Monkey
3pm - 4:45pm Black Poets Speak Out - Library Theater
7:00pm - 8:30pm Prelim Bouts-Early
DeKalb County Public Library Theater,
DeKalb County Public Library Conference Rm,
Little Shop of Stories, Java Monkey,
Decatur School of Ballet (Studio 1),
Sycamore Place Gallery
9:00pm - 10:30pm Prelim Bouts-Late
DeKalb County Public Library Theater,
DeKalb County Public Library Conference Rm,
Little Shop of Stories, Java Monkey
Decatur School of Ballet (Studio 1),
Sycamore Place Gallery
11pm-1am 11pm-1am Ratchet to Righteous - CORE Dance
Write Club Atlanta - Decatur CoWorks (OFC)
Thursday August 4th
8:30am-9:30am Yoga - Meet at Gazebo
10am-11:45am Poetry Publishing Toolbox -Library Theater
10am-11:45am
Grief & Remembrance-Decatur CoWorks (HS)
10am-11:45am
Slammaster Training - Decatur CoWorks (OFC)
1pm - 2:45pm Slammaster SLAM -Java Monkey
1pm - 2:45pm
We Still Kissing, Y’all (LGBTQ) - Library
Conference
1pm - 2:45pm
ASL Cabaret - Library Theater
3pm - 4:45pm Journey Here - Java Monkey
3pm - 4:45pm Nerd Slam - Library Theater
7:00pm - 8:30pm Prelim Bouts-Early
DeKalb County Public Library Theater,
DeKalb County Public Library Conference Rm,
Little Shop of Stories, Java Monkey,
CORE Dance Studio,
Decatur City Hall Commissioners Rm
9:00pm - 10:30pm Prelim Bouts-Late
DeKalb County Public Library Theater,
DeKalb County Public Library Conference Rm,
Little Shop of Stories, Java Monkey,
CORE Dance Studio,
Decatur City Hall Commissioners Rm
11pm-1am 11pm-1am Poetry vs Hip Hop - CORE Dance
Poet Family Fued - Decatur CO Works (OFC)
Friday August 5th
8:30am-9:30am
10am-12pm Yoga - Meet at Gazebo
Slammaster Meeting -Library Theater
10am-11:45am
1pm - 2:45pm 1pm - 2:45pm 1pm - 2:45pm
3pm - 4:45pm
3pm - 4:45pm
DISpatches (Disability) - Decatur CoWorks (HS)
How to create a group piece - Library Theater
Asian/Pacific Islander Reading -Java Monkey
How to Not be Yourself - Library Conference
Legends of the South - Library Theater
12 Tribes - Java Monkey
8pm - 10:30pm Semi Finals - Agnes Scott College Presser Hall
DeKalb County Public Library Theater
Decatur Performing Arts Center
Ebster Recreation Center
11pm-1am Group Piece Finals Agnes Scott College Presser Hall
Saturday August 6th
9am - 10am
Yoga - Meet in Decatur Square
10am -12pm Slam Family Meeting -Library Theater
10am - 11:30am So You Want to Be a
Professional Poet? - Library Conference
10am -11:45pm Clietrati (Women’s Reading) - Java Monkey
12pm - 4pm
Block Party - Decatur Square
6pm - 7:15pm
VIP Reception
8pm - 10:30pm Finals Stage GWCC Sidney Marcus Auditorium
11pm - 2am
After Party - Decatur CO Works (OFC)
COMPLETE SCHEDULE
Monday August 1st
2pm-5pm
Early Team Registration
DeKalb County Public Library Conference Rm
Volunteer Registration and Pass Pick Up
6pm-7pm
DeKalb County Public Library Theater
7pm-8pm
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
Decatur Art Alliance Welcome Center
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8pm-9:30pm
Welcome Party
Decatur Art Alliance Welcome Center
Tuesday August 2nd
9am - 10am
The Rub
Meet at the Gazebo
Relax, slam isn’t that serious. Work those muscles (of brain and body)
out in a guided group massage. We’re going grade school theater
warm up here, a massage circle with a poetic twist! **sensory
warning** you will be touching people and they will be touching you,
with consent of course and always.
Host: Stephanie Morey
10am-11:45am
Java Monkey
Rookie Showcase
Come see first time NPS competitors rock the mic. This is your chance
to hear some of Slam’s freshest voices do their thing.
Host: Adan Bean
10am-12pm
Team Registration
DeKalb County Public Library Conference Rm
1pm-2:30pm
Orientation / Pass Pick Up
Ebster Recreation Center
ALL COMPETING POETS MUST ATTEND ORIENTATION. NO
EXCEPTIONS. POETS WHO DON’T ATTEND ORIENTATION CANNOT
COMPETE AT NPS. PERIOD.
1pm-4pm
“3 Minute Activists: The Soul of Slam”
Screening & Panel Discussion
National Center For Civil and Human Rights
Derrick Boazman of WAOK 1380 hosts a panel discussion following the
screening of “3 Minute Activists”, a documentary film that follows
Atlanta area poets as they prepare to compete in Roswell Roots
annual poetry competition. He will be joined by director Michael
Harper, organizer Ayodele Heath and featured poets Alice Lovelace
and Oak Morse, winner of the 2013 Roswell Roots slam.
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Prelim Bouts-Early
7pm - 8:30pm
DeKalb County Public Library Theater
DeKalb County Public Library Conference Rm
Little Shop of Stories Java Monkey Organic Coffee
Decatur School of Ballet (Studio 1 & 2)
9:00pm - 10:30pm
Prelim Bouts-Early
DeKalb County Public Library Theater,
DeKalb County Public Library Conference Rm
Little Shop of Stories, Java Monkey Organic Coffee
Decatur School of Ballet (Studio 1 & 2)
Poetry and Pasties
11pm-1am CORE DANCE STUDIO
Burlesque Variety Showcase
Join us for an evening of sexy poems from some of your favorite poets
mixed in with burlesque performances from members of Atlanta
Burlesque, Syrens of the South and Candy Box Review. This showcase
will be a night of naughty meets nice. Poems and Pasties for
everyone!!!
Host: Theresa Davis
11pm-1am Poetic Debauchery
Decatur CO Works (OFC)
It’s time to slam your poems like the WWE slams bodies. Pile Drive your
point when you drop knowledge from the top rope. Will you make
your opponent tap out? Instead of bringing chairs into the ring, bring
your best poems, and in the great words of John Cena “JUST DO IT!”
Host: Lindsay Stone
Wednesday August 3rd
8:30am-9:30am
Yoga
Meet at Gazebo on the Square
Each morning weary wordsmiths are invited to gently dissolve those
writer’s blocks, warm up those creative muscles, expand that
awareness, and give that pesky brain a soothing break. Get out of
your goals and back in your body. This is a basic Hatha Yoga class
suitable for all levels. If you’ve never done yoga before, this will be a
fun introduction. If you’re a more advanced practitioner, challenging
options will be offered. Wear loose or stretchy clothes; no jeans or
belts please. Don’t eat for at least 1-2 hours before class. Bring your
own mat or a towel. Oh, and don’t forget your sense of humor!
Living From Your Dreams:
10am -11:45am
Greatness as a State of Being Instead of a Goal
Java Monkey
What we choose to think, speak and create has a real and profound
effect on our life experiences. Therefore, it is of the utmost importance
for performance artists to be aware of the thoughts and ideas that
they are sharing with the world. Participants will be led through some
exercises around the idea that the state of our lives is a reflection of
our personal expectations. This workshop will provide participants with
a clear sense of direction by identifying their goals while revealing and
releasing any limiting expectations or beliefs.
Host: Twin Soul Poets Hamilton Graziano and Ingrid Alli
10am -11:45am Mommas & Poppas Open Mic
Little Shop of Stories
This is a reading to celebrate the joys, the tragedies, and the general
whatevers of being a parent. Come with tales of diaper woes,
teenage angst, sleepless nights, and the victories and losses that go
with the everyday battles of having a child or twelve.
Host: Jesse Parent
10am -11:45am Slam 101:
The Who, What, Where and Why of Slam
Decatur CoWorks (House Side)
Every slam is won or lost before you ever step on stage. This workshop
discusses performance, writing, strategy, etiquette, and most
importantly helps you to discover why you slam. Come with pen,
paper, questions, an open heart and mind. The only 3 time Individual
World Poetry Slam Champion, also seen on Seasons 3 and 5 of Lexus
Verses and Flow, Ed Mabrey will help you find your poetic voice and
show you how slam can be a vehicle for you. (For an extra dollar he’ll
give away the secret on how to always score a 30)
Host: Ed Maybrey
People of the Sun:
An Indigenous American Poetry Showcase
1pm - 2:45pm DeKalb County Public Library Conference Rm
Open to all poets who identify as Indigenous, Native, NDN, Chicana/o,
Latina/o, Hispana/o, and Mexicana/o, Filipina/o, Pacific Islander, First
Nations, Caribbean, Cubana/o, Dominican/o, Boriqua, Samoan,
Polynesian, Norteña/o, Sureña/o, Alaskan Native, Aboriginal,Meztiza/o,
and by all other names we call ourselves.
Host: Damien Flores & Mercedez Holtry
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1pm - 2:45pm Library Theater
Head 2 Head Haiku
Annually, one of NPS’ most anticipated day events, H2HH returns to its
original one day format for this year: Haikusters are pulled into random
matchups in a knock-out style tournament using only your Ku- no titles,
no props or accompaniment- judged by 3 individuals. You will need at
least 32 and there is NO REPEAT.
Host: Billy Tuggle
1pm - 2:45pm Java Monkey
Gender Outlaws
At Gender Outlaws you will get to hear some of the strongest Trans,
Intersex, and Gender Nonconforming Voices in the country, or sign up
to be one of those voices yourself.
Host: Lindsay Stone
3pm - 4:45pm Library Theater
Black Poets Speak Out
Black Poets Speak Out (BPSO) began as a response to a conversation
initiated by Amanda Johnston. Jericho Brown, Mahogany Browne,
Jonterri Gadson and Sherina Rodriguez-Sharpe responded to the call
with ideas, suggestions and various plans of action. On November 24,
2014 when a grand jury decided not to indict Darren Wilson, the
police officer who murdered Mike Brown, black poets around the
country participated in a hashtag video campaign in response to the
decision. The videos are housed on a Tumblr site, and organizer
Mahogany Browne says that the project’s purpose “is to centralize in
one space hundreds of poems, songs, prayers and testimonies
speaking on behalf of black mothers, black fathers, black brothers
and sisters—thousands of voices insisting on justice.” Join the
collective outcry for our black lives.
Host: Mahogany Brown
7:00pm - 8:30pm Prelim Bouts-Early
DeKalb County Public Library Theater,
DeKalb County Public Library Conference Rm,
Decatur School of Ballet (Studio 1), Sycamore Place Gallery
Little Shop of Stories, Java Monkey Organic Coffee,
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9:00pm - 10:30pm
Prelim Bouts-Early
DeKalb County Public Library Theater,
DeKalb County Public Library Conference Rm,
Decatur School of Ballet (Studio 1), Sycamore Place Gallery
Little Shop of Stories, Java Monkey Organic Coffee,
Ratchet To Righteous
11pm - 1am
CORE DANCE STUDIO
Da H.O.O.D Showcase
Poetry comes from all places and all faces, and this showcase highlights a core principle of art-- ascension!! The H.O.O.D ( Hope Overcoming Obvious Destruction) showcase is a platform for all poets from
humble beginnings, as well as those who acknowledge the atrocities,
injustices, beauties and triumphs of the H.O.O.D! This showcase will be
turnt! Come be free and let this “Ghetto Belle” show you some
southern hospitality, and have the greatest time, just being you!
Host: GeorgiaMe & Abyss
11pm - 1am Write Club Atlanta
Decatur CO Works (OFC)
Three bouts of two writers expounding on two opposing topics
for seven minutes a piece in a no-holds-barred flurry of wordfists.
The tenderest bloodsport. A lit-kick to the back of the skull.
Host: Nick Tecosky
Thursday August 4th
8:30am - 9:30am
Yoga
Meet at Gazebo on the Square
10am - 11:45am Library Theater
Poetry Publishing Toolbox
This workshop will equip attendees with the tools needed to edit their
poems for potential publication in literary journals and magazines. The
workshop will also include top tips on how to submit your work
using Submittable, as well as provide a list of slam friendly publications.
Workshop leader Kimberly Simms is the 2016 Carl Sandburg Writer in
Residence, a member of the Humanities Council SC Speaker’s
Bureau, and a teaching artist. Over sixty of her poems have been
published in a variety of traditional print journals and magazines.
Host: Kimberly Simms
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10am -11:45am Grief & Remembrance Open Mic
Decatur CoWorks (House Side)
A space to share stories and experiences about the losses that have
made us who we are. There is no “right” way to confront and work
through the emotions surrounding death and tragedy; this is a place to
acknowledge the complexities of those feelings.
Host: Susan M. Peiffer
10am -11:45am Slammaster Training (non-mandatory)
Decatur CoWorks (OFC)
This is a meeting to review best practices & policies in running a regular
poetry slam series.
Host: Suzi Q. Smith
1pm - 2:45pm Java Monkey
Slammaster SLAM: Who is the MASTER!!!
Slam Masters are always “Doing the most” for everyone else. It is their
time and this ain’t no showcase. They know the slam rules better than
anyone. 2 rounds of poetry 1 Surprise challenge round. Come watch
them “ShoNuff!” prove who is THE MASTER.
Host: mistafunn
1pm - 2:45pm WE STILL KISSING, Y’ALL (LGTBQ Reading)
Library Conference Rm
This reading from the community of poets who live this life will give
you LIFE! We who hold our love close and our voices loud will share
our experiences, our happy, our struggle, our everything. So much in
this world is trying to legislate us and terrorize us, but you know what?
No! Join us for this kicking in the closet event and maybe instead of a
moment of silence for those lost in Orlando, we will have a moment of
kissing. With CONSENT, of course.
Host: Theresa Davis
1pm - 2:45pm Library Theater
ASL Caberet Showcase
ASL Cabaret is a celebration of American Sign Language (ASL)
performance artists.Each year NPS graciously sponsors an ASL event
where we gather local ASL artists, and maybe not so surprisingly, our
own Slam family’s vibrant community of ASL creators to take the stage
and “sign”! And, as always, we invite you to perform your own ASL
art at our open mic. We encourage you to come witness this unique
event.
Host: Mona Jean
“Journey Here”
3pm - 4:45pm
Java Monkey
Funny Poet Open Mic
-
A comedic poem only open mic.
Bring your Funny!
Host: Jonathan Samuel Eddie
3pm - 4:45pm Library Theater
Nerd Slam
The Nerd Slam is a competition where participants will be judged
based on their knowledge of a particular “Nerd” specialty (Anime,
Video Games, Comic Books, Fantasy Novels, etc), in a bracket-style
competition.
Participants will be asked a series of questions based on their
specialty. The best two out of three individuals will advance to the
next round. In the event of a tie, the host will ask a tie-breaking
question.
Host: LeJuane El’Ja Bowens and Quez
1. The Nerd Slam is a competition in which participants will be judged
based on their “Nerd” specialty( i.e. Anime, Video Games, Comic
Books,Fantasy Novels, etc). The more specific the specialty, the better
for the judges
2. There will be a panel of 3 judges who all have qualities to judge
based on their knowledge in “Nerdism”
3.The participant will be asked a series of questions based on their
specialty.Best 2 out of three wins and advances. If there is a tie, the
host will asked a random Nerd question on something that EVERY nerd
should be knowledgeable on to advance a winner
4. Depending on the number of participants, they will be broken
down into a bracket style competition.
5. 8 participants will compete with poets wanting to do Nerd
​poems mixed in between the brackets
6. Winner will be announced at the end of the bracket.
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7:00pm - 8:30pm Prelim Bouts-Early
DeKalb County Public Library Theater,
Decatur Librar Conference Room,
Little Shop of Stories, Java Monkey Organic Coffee,
CORE Dance Studio, City Hall Commissioner Room
9:00pm - 10:30pm Prelim Bouts-Early
DeKalb County Public Library Theater,
Decatur Librar Conference Room,
Little Shop of Stories, Java Monkey Organic Coffee,
CORE Dance Studio, City Hall Commissioner Room
11pm - 1am CORE DANCE STUDIO
Poetry VS Hip Hop
Are poetry and hip-hop one in the same? Have emcees forgotten their
roots? Is poetry a lost art to today’s rappers?
Come find out-- it’s #TeamQueenSheba and the Poets versus
#TeamMicxsic and the Emcees! THIS IS ALL IN FUN! NO BAD BLOOD!
JUST BRAGGING RIGHTS! PEACEFUL “BATTLE”.
@Djknodat on the Turntables all night
Come root for your favorite team and support local artists
Host: Queen Sheba, Mic x Sic, Adan Beam & DJ KnoDat
11pm - 1am Decatur CO Works (OFC)
Poet Fam Fued
Out of 100 poets polled the number one answer for what you’re doing
late night tonight is the Poet Fam Feud! Rustbelt, Southern Fried,
NorthBeast, Southwest Shootout-- get your family together and come
hard for the first ever title of Poet Fam Feud champions!
Host: Stephen Meads
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Friday August 5th
8:30am - 9:30am Yoga
Meet at Gazebo on the Square
Slam Masters Meeting
10am - 12pm
Library Theater
If you are one of those super patient, extra gentle souls called a
“SlamMaster” then you probably already know about this one, since
it’s mandatory you or someone you deem responsible enough to vote
in your stead attends. Unless it’s your first year, you’ve undoubtedly
been to this mother of all meetings before so you know the drill: brush
up on your Robert’s Rules, grab some coffee and get ready to vote
on stuff. If it is your first year as an SM, check the forums for the
agenda to keep from asking questions everyone else already knows
the answer to. Open to all but only SMs from certified venues get a
vote.
10am - 11:45am DISpatches (Disability, Illness, and Supporters)
Decatur CO Works (HS)
Poets living with disabilities and chronic illness, both visible and
invisible, and their allies come together to share stories of their
struggles and triumphs through poetry.
Host: Gabe Moses
1pm - 2:45pm
Library Theater
How to Create a
Group Piece Dynasty in Your City
Success in the National Group Finals is about discipline, collaboration,
and hard work in advance of NPS. Over the past five years, a team
from Austin has placed in the top 5 at Group Piece Finals every year,
claiming the top spot three times. Would you like to achieve something similar in your city? We’ve put together a panel of some of the
poets who engineered these wins to tell you how we did it! Headed
up by four Group Piece Champion poets and coaches, our panel will
cover: bringing in the community, writing group poems, practicing for
performance, group poem strategy, and more!
Host: Austin Area Poets
1pm - 2:45pm
Java Monkey
Asian/Pacific Islander
This is a reading for Asian, South Asian, West Asian and Pacific Islander
identified poets.
Host: Eugene Ahn
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1pm - 2:45pm
How to Not be Yourself
Library Conference Rm
An analysis of persona poems and getting into the heads of other
characters, complete with a series of prompts to take home to share
with friends and students! Bring writing materials! We’ll be making new
poems as part of the session to be shared in a mini-open mic by all
willing at the end of the workshop!
Host: Curtis X Meyer
1pm - 2:45pm Library Theater
Legends of the South
The Legends of the South showcase of NPS 2016 is a celebration of
some of south’s pioneering spoken word artists and slammers. This
closed mic will feature poets from the region who have been
performing/competing on a national level for at least ten years, and
who also have been instrumental to pushing the slam movement
forward in their respective communities. Come witness the rich
tapestry of verse that encompasses the triumphs, hardships, beauty
and brilliance of some of the nation’s most prolific writers. The South
got something to say and you will hear some of its finest say it!
Host: Donney Rose
3pm - 4:45pm Java Monkey
12 Tribes
A reading for all poets of the Jewish diaspora (be they practicing/
religious or culturally) AND goyim (non Jew) with poems on Jewish
subject matter.
Host: Paulie Lipman
8:00pm - 10:00pm
Semi-Finals
Agnes Scott College Presser Hall
Decatur Performing Arts Center
DeKalb County Public Library Theater
Ebster Recreation Center
There will be food trucks in the parking lot of of Agnes Scott College
11:00pm - 1:00am
Group Piece
Agnes Scott College Presser Hall
Finals
Multi-voice poems, where more than one poet collaborates in the
performance of a poem, are often some of the most dynamic works
at NPS. This show features the best group pieces from competing
teams who didn’t make (or chose to opt out of) semi-finals. A list of
qualified teams will be available at www.scores.poetryslam.com
Saturday August 6th
9am - 10am
Yoga
10am - 11:30am
Library Theater
Slam Family Meeting
So You Want To Be A Professional Poet and
Artist: Business & Entrepreneurship Workshop
Library Conference Rm
Are you about to start or finish up a tour? Come learn how
professional artists and poets manage their money and find out
the tools they use to set their careers up for success.
Host: Delta Community Credit Union
10:30am - 11:30am
12pm - 4pm
Downtown Decatur
6pm - 7:15pm 8pm - 11pm
Family Fun Day Block Party
Final Stage VIP Reception
Georgia World Congress Center
Team Finals
Georgia World Congress Center
Sidney Marcus Auditorium
This is what we’re all here for! The 2016 National Poetry Slam
Champions will be crowned at the end of this epic, four-team battle
in front of a packed to the rafters room! The top teams from each of
Friday’s hard fought Semis bring it to the big stage on Saturday to see
who takes home the big trophy with the sword in it. There’ll be special
surprise guests and phenomenal showcase performances to open the
show and some of the very best poetry you’ve ever seen and heard all
week.
11pm - 2am After Party
Decatur CO Works (OFC)
Well, folks, it’s all over. Statistics say you didn’t win a giant stack
of books with a sword through it, but you did make new friends
and connections around the country. Go have a drink with
them, dance with them, talk about all the strategy and what ifs
with them. Have one last laugh before your travels tomorrow.
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PSi Staff
Suzi Q. Smith, Executive Director
Emily Rose, Membership & Venue Administrator
Geoffrey Jarok, CPA, Financial Manager
Maureen Benson, National Poetry Slam Event Coordinator
Inkera Oshun, IWPs Event Coordinator
Mahogany L. Browne, WOWPs Event Coordinator
Johnny Osi, Website Administrator
Executive Council Inkera Oshun, President
Christopher Michael, Vice President
Karen Garrabrant, Secretary
John Quiñonez
Don McIver, Trustee
Jesse Parent
Ashlee Haze, Treasurer
Who Did What?
(If you must know)
Host City Team
A group is a bunch of people in an elevator. A team is also a bunch
of people in an elevator, but the elevator is broken! ~Bonnie Edelstein
The Extra Medium Social Outcast - Mistafunn
Lemonade Stand Tawny Powell & Aniisa Lewis
Unslept Mother of Hosts & Breaker of Google Sheets - Stephanie Morey
Titan of Undeniable Cuteness - Christine Job
Hug Dealer - Karen Garrabrant
Simply The Best Marketing & Promotion - DO Strategy Group
Krispy Whyte The Dark Secret - Nate Mask
Kenyan koneckshun - Victor Masoliah
Word Smith - Kelundra Smith
The Extra Help - Ashlee Haze
Copyediting Manager and Press Kit
Kelundra Smith
Festival Guide Content Contributors
Kelundra Smith
Mistafunn
Official Logo and Webmaster
Mistafunn™ The Misadventures of D-zine
Social Media Management - r3b3lm3dia
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AVOID TRAFFIC and “TAKE MARTA”
to the Georgia World Congress Center.
One-way Fare $2.50.
(“Prices are Subject to Change”)
A Tremendous Thanks goes to all our Sponsors and Partners
SAVE THE DATE
iWPS 2016
Flagstaff, AZ
October 12-15, 2016
WOWps 2017
Dallas, TX
March 15-18, 2017
National Poetry Slam
Denver, CO
August 7-12, 2017
For more information go to
www.poetryslam.com