Poets from across the Goulburn Valley have the chance to put their hats in the ring for the Australian Poetry Slam competition.
Shepparton library will host a thrilling heat on Sunday, September 8, where local poets can bring their words to life on stage.
Poetry slams blend the power of words with captivating performances, allowing poets to express their deepest passions — from intimate personal stories to grand, universal themes.
The Australian Poetry Slam is held in heats across Australia and competitors with the highest score at each heat progress to a state, territory or regional final.
The overall winner will receive $20,000, publication in print, audio and video, professional mentoring, and a parade of paid gigs in the year following the win.
In these fast-paced heats, poets have just two electrifying minutes to captivate five randomly selected audience members turned judges with their best performance.
Competitors can only register at Shepparton Library when doors open at 6:30pm on Sunday, September 8.
There are only 20 slots available for each heat and the event is open to all ages, so prospective competitors are encouraged to be there on time and ready to jot their name down.
Rather be in the crowd than on the stage? Tickets are free and available now.
Making appearances at the Shepparton heat will be the 2023 Poetry Slam champions Rob Waters and K.J Hayward.
Mr Waters, residing in NSW, is a Gomeroi poet, storyteller, cultural educator and spoken word artist with over 20 years of sharing his stories.
Ms Hayward’s powerful poetry, exploring themes of feminism, youth experiences, mental health and education, propelled her from the Shepparton heat to victory in the 2023 Australian Youth Poetry Slam competition.
Aspiring competitors can boost their confidence and skills at a pre-event workshop, where seasoned poets will share insider tips on crafting and delivering powerful performances.
Slots for this workshop are also limited, so booking a place is essential.
For more information, or to book your place in the poetry slam workshop, call or email Shepparton library on 1300 374 765 or at shepparton@gvlibraries.com.au
Tickets for audience members are available at https://www.gvlibraries.com.au/event/!/133/event/shepparton-library-poetry-slam-heat
A full list of rules for the Australian Poetry Slam is available to read at https://www.australianpoetryslam.com/rules