Are your students finding poetry boring? Unexciting? An archaic form practiced by old people obsessed with nature? Try All-Star Slam. It brings the poignancy, hilarity, and immediacy of slam poetry competitions to the stage. The All-Star SLAM pits three former poetry slam champions head to head to head in an all-out battle of poetic verve and wit.
How does it work? Simple. The poets perform one poem each in three rounds, all of which are judged on a scale of zero to ten by the audience (in this case, the students!) In the end, the winner is announced, though in effect, everyone has won. Students have been moved, inspired, and engaged by poetry, often for the first time in their lives.
As one student had it: “This is better than Metallica!” The topics are engaging, the presentation is amazing, and the competition is riveting. Guaranteed to jumpstart students into writing careers of their own.
Want to see it in action? Check out this video of the All-Star Slam (which is also called “Travellin’Slam” when it goes on tour outside of Vancouver):
This event is SOLD OUT. Interested school groups contact Chris Gilpin at wordplaypoets@gmail.com about the possibility of adding a show on Friday morning.
This is an all-ages event. It may contain strong language, controversial issues, and words that make you re-evaluate your life. General seating. This event is free for all festival participants and volunteers. You do not need to be a student to attend. Members of the general public are welcome.