Bristol is a city brimming with creativity and culture, and this is especially true for its poetry scene. There are plenty of opportunities to get involved in the city’s poetry events, whatever your level of experience or interest may be. In this guide, we’ll take a look at some of the best bristol poetry events happening in the coming months.
One of the most popular events for lovers of poetry is Word of Mouth, which takes place on the third Monday of every month. This open mic night invites poets of all styles and levels of experience to come and share their work with a supportive audience. Held at The Greenbank Pub, Word of Mouth is well-established and has a loyal following, making it an excellent opportunity to network with fellow poets and make new connections within the Bristol writing community.
Another great open mic night is Milk Poetry, which takes place every first Thursday of the month at The Leftbank. Milk Poetry has been running for over ten years, and in that time, it has become known for its high-quality performances and enthusiastic audience. The event regularly features some of the most exciting names in Bristol poetry, providing a platform for established and emerging writers alike.
For those looking for something more structured, Bristol Poetry Institute hosts a series of poetry readings and talks throughout the year. These events feature a range of speakers, including academics, poets, and critics, presenting their thoughts and analysis on various aspects of poetry. Attending one of these lectures is an excellent chance to deepen your knowledge of the form and gain insight into the latest trends and innovations in poetry.
If you’re interested in hearing poetry performed alongside other art forms, then the Bristol Folk House is the place for you. They hold event nights dedicated to spoken word, where poets and storytellers perform their work in conjunction with musicians, dancers, and visual artists. These events often draw larger crowds than other poetry readings, making them excellent opportunities to connect with a wider audience.
For those looking to develop their skills, there are a variety of workshops and classes available. Head to the Spike Island Creative Hub to participate in the Creative Writing Lab, which runs bi-weekly and covers a range of different writing styles, including poetry. The lab is led by experienced writers, providing participants with the tools they need to improve their craft.
Another option for those interested in honing their poetry skills is the Bristol Poetry Institute’s Writers in Performance course. This 10-session program aims to help poets develop the performance aspect of their work, introducing them to techniques such as voice projection, body language, and use of space. At the end of the course, participants will perform their work at a showcase event, giving them the opportunity to demonstrate their newfound skills to an appreciative audience.
Finally, for those who love blending poetry with food and drink, the Loco Klub hosts a regular event called Rhyme and Dine. This two-hour event takes place on select Fridays and provides a delicious three-course meal alongside a curated selection of poetry readings. It’s the perfect way to combine a night out with your love of the written word.
In conclusion, the Bristol poetry scene is a vibrant and welcoming community that offers plenty of diverse opportunities for everyone from beginner poets to experienced professionals. Whether you’re looking to perform your work live, attend lectures and readings, participate in workshops and courses, or just enjoy poetry alongside some delicious food and drink, there’s something for you in Bristol. With a city that offers a wealth of opportunities to explore and expand your love of poetry, it’s no wonder that Bristol is quickly becoming recognized as one of the UK’s leading poetry hotspots.