Local aspiring poets will have the chance to harness their skills and then show what they’ve got as part of the 2023 Australian Poetry Slam.

Slam poetry is a form of spoken word poetry designed to be performed and engage an audience. The poems often speak about current or social issues, and the poets experiment with sound and rhythm within their performances.

Camden Libraries will host a ‘wordshop’ – a spoken word workshop led by a professional slam artist on 31 August. A local heat event will then be held on 9 September.

Two poets from the local heat will receive entry into the State Final. State Finals around the country will lead up to the National Final at the Sydney Opera House with $20,000 up for grabs.

Mayor of Camden, Cr Ashleigh Cagney, encouraged those with an interest in slam poetry to take part.

“This is a great way for people to get involved and express themselves in a unique way,” she said.

“If you don’t feel like taking the stage this year, just come along to the local heat and see what it’s all about.

“I wish our local poetry slammers all the best of luck, and I know our two selected poets will do us proud at the State Final.”

The two local events taking place are:

Wordshop

Thursday 31 August, 6–8pm

Oran Park Library

A professional slam artist will demonstrate the different slam forms and give writing exercises to help aspiring poets gain valuable skills in creative writing, public speaking, and self-expression.

Suitable for ages 12 and over.  Limited to 20 participants.

Register online at library.camden.nsw.gov.au/events/poetry-slam-workshop.

Heat

Saturday 9 September, 1-3pm

Narellan Library Forecourt

Bring your original poem, story, monologue or rap to the stage, with two minutes to wow the audience or come along to experience the fun.

Two poets chosen by the audience will receive a prize and head to the State Final.

 Ages 12 years and over are welcome to perform. Limited to 20 performers.

 Register online at library.camden.nsw.gov.au/events/poetry-slam-heat.

 Content warning: mature themes might be discussed in the poems and may not be suitable for children.