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Your Guide to the Toronto Poetry Slam: What To Expect & How To Join
- What is the Toronto Poetry Slam?
- Where is the Toronto Poetry Slam?
- How To Get To Toronto Poetry Slam
- How to Attend a Poetry Slam Event
- Purchase events tickets
- Step 1: Visit the website
- Step 2: Visit the Facebook page
- Step 3: Ready your cash
- How to Compete in Toronto Poetry Slam
- How to Sign Up as a Performer
- What are the rules and judging criteria?
- For Poems
- For Open Mic
- What to Expect at a Toronto Poetry Slam Event
- The Atmosphere and Experience
- Notable Poets and Past Winners
- How To Get Involved With the Community in Toronto
- Workshops and Events for Aspiring Poets
- Volunteering and Supporting the Scene
- What Are Some Poetry Slam Venues and Practical Tips
- Location and Venue Details in Toronto
- Tips for First-Time Attendees of Poetry Slams
- Other Poetry and Spoken Word Events in Toronto
- Open Mics and Alternative Slams in Toronto
- What is Toronto's Poetry Scene Beyond the Slam
If you’ve never been to the Toronto Poetry Slam, you’re seriously missing out! This is where poets all over the GTA come around and share their craft with a live audience.
Attending a poetry slam can challenge and engage your mind— it has actually made me so emotional. Poets speak from the heart, allowing us to hear their emotions and honest thoughts— it’s very brave and is pure art (street art canada), no?
If you’re planning on attending the Toronto Poetry Slam, we’ve got a handy guide to help you navigate this spoken word event. Read on!
What is the Toronto Poetry Slam?
The Toronto Poetry Slam is an annual spoken word event and is one of the largest of its kind in Canada. It brings together talented individuals from the Greater Toronto Area and also helps send them to various competitions in North America.
This event was founded in 2005 by David Silverberg, a poet and journalist. Aside from spoken word competitions in Toronto, it also offers workshops to local communities.
Talented and award-winning poets contribute to Toronto’s vibrant poetry scene. Some of them are even available to perform at your event.
Where is the Toronto Poetry Slam?
The annual Toronto Poetry Slam is held at Harbourfront Centre, an indoor venue in Queens Quay West for theatre, dance, and music. However, not all events are held here.
Some poetry slam events may need a smaller venue. If you want to participate or watch, check out their events page to see where the events are held.
How To Get To Toronto Poetry Slam
Closest subway stop: To get to Harbourfront Centre for the annual Toronto Poetry Slam, you need to head to Union Station. You can reach this via the TTC— ride the Yonge-University line going to Union Station and then walk to the south of York Street.
Closest streetcars: Alternatively, you can take the streetcars from 509 Harbourfront or 510 Spadina. The former operates between Union and Exhibition, while the latter drives between Spadina and Union.
By driving: If you want to take the car, you can find underground parking at 235 Queens Quay West. Click here for the directions.
How to Attend a Poetry Slam Event
If you’re wondering how to attend a poetry slam event, here are the things you can do if you want to watch or participate. Check out the steps below:
Purchase events tickets
Media credit: torontopoetryslam
The easiest way to watch a slam event is by purchasing your tickets. You must first check out the events page on the website or social media accounts to see the available performances.
There’s really no “Buy Now” section on their website, so it might be confusing at first. Here are the steps on how to purchase their tickets”
Step 1: Visit the website
Media credit: torontopoetryslam
Once you’re on the Toronto Poetry Slam website, click on “Events” and then click “Learn More” after scrolling down. You can find it at the bottom of the page.
It will take you to a different website where you can purchase the tickets online. Depending on the venue and event, the website may change from time to time.
For the Toronto Poetry Slam, you need to buy your passes at the Festival of Authors website. Here are the ticket prices:
Festival Pass
- Regular: $199.99
- Student & Youth: $129.99
Friday Pass
- Regular: $15.99
- Student & Youth: $9.99
Step 2: Visit the Facebook page
Media credit: torontopoetryslam
You can find the complete list of poetry slam events on their Facebook Page. Many events don’t require online passes— instead, you can buy your ticket at the door.
Once you see the event you want to go to, click the link and then press “See More.” This will show you the complete details, including the schedule, hours, venue, sign-ups (if included), and ticket prices.
If you’re a poet, you must check the times because you need to arrive earlier to sign up first. Some sign-ups are done online, depending on the event.
Pro Tip:
Follow their socials to keep updated with all upcoming events and special guest performances.
Step 3: Ready your cash
Media credit: torontopoetryslam
Most poetry slam events only accept cash at the door, so make sure you have money with you. Bring tens or twenties if you can to avoid taking up too much time looking for change.
Some do accept e-transfers, but it’s important to note that not all do. We strongly recommend you still bring cash in case the e-transfer service is down. This way, you can have a hassle-free start to your poetry slam event!
How to Compete in Toronto Poetry Slam
If you want to compete instead of being in the audience, here are things you should know for a smooth journey.
How to Sign Up as a Performer
Media credit: torontopoetryslam
Signing up as a performer for the Toronto Poetry Slam is easy as pie! You just need to go to the lobby of Harbourfront Centre during the specified time. For 2024, sign-ups are between 6:30 pm to 7:00 pm.
Sign-ups are in person. It’s also important to note that there are limited slots, so arrive early so you won’t be at the end of the line.
But before signing up, make sure you read the Code of Honor first. Another must-read is Before You Slam, which basically states the rules for the poetry slam to ensure the event is smooth sailing and to avoid hate, disrespect, intimidation, and harassment.
Pro Tip:
Slots fill up quickly since there’s a limited number of participants allowed. Arrive early to secure your spot.
What are the rules and judging criteria?
When joining the poetry slam, remember to create your original content. Don’t write something offensive, racist, homophobic, Islamophobic, or transphobic— basically, the rule is, don’t be a jerk!
You must show respect, both as a performer and as part of the audience. Intimidation and harassment are big no-nos!
You should know there’s also a time limit for each performer at the Toronto Poetry Slam, which depends on the type of slam.
Pro Tip:
Don’t be shy to show your emotions while performing. Focus on your delivery and engage with the audience!
For Poems
Media credit: torontopoetryslam
For poems, your poetry slam must stay within 3:00, but there’s a 10-second grace period.
For instance, if you finish over 3:10, you will receive a penalty. But if you finish under 3:10, you won’t be penalized.
Here are the penalty points if you go over the time limit:
- half point (.5) penalty at 3:10:01
- one point (1) at 3:20:01
- one and a half points (1.5) at 3:30:01
- two points (2) at 3:40:01
…and so on. Basically, the penalties will be .5 for every 10 seconds you go over the time limit. So, the longer your poetry slam is, the more penalties you get.
But when does your time actually start? It starts the moment you make contact with the audience, be it via words or actions.
For Open Mic
Media credit: torontopoetryslam
If you’re joining an open mic, you get a longer time. You get a time limit of four minutes or one poem— whichever comes first.
Your time limit starts at your first interaction with the audience as well, either by word or action.
What to Expect at a Toronto Poetry Slam Event
The Atmosphere and Experience
Media credit: torontopoetryslam
For your first Toronto Poetry Slam experience, expect the crowd to be energetic, supportive, and respectful of each other.
Anticipate high energy (which you will probably feel as you walk in as well) because the audience will applaud and snap their fingers for the poets.
There’s going to be an emotional vibe because the performances are going to be raw and thought-provoking— basically, it’s going to be real. There’s going to be a wide range of topics that will come from personal experiences, emotions, and honesty.
Pro Tip:
Content warning: ready yourself for difficult topics. There are going to be difficult topics that might affect you. If you feel you need to take a break, you can step outside anytime— taking care of yourself is encouraged.
Notable Poets and Past Winners
Media credit: torontopoetryslam
A diverse group of people have performed at the Toronto Poetry Slam, including beginners and notable poets. A notable poet is Dwayne Morgan, who earned the nickname “The Godfather” of Canadian spoken word poetry.
Other famous poets are Jennifer Alicia Murrin, a two-time champion of the National Poetry Slam, and Luke Reece, a Toronto Poetry Slam 2017 Grand Champion.
If you want to know more about past winners, check out The Collective members to learn more about their achievements in the world of poetry slam.
Pro Tip:
Follow the champions’ social media pages for updates on their upcoming gigs and performances.
How To Get Involved With the Community in Toronto
Workshops and Events for Aspiring Poets
Media credit: torontopoetryslam
The poetry slam community in Toronto is very welcoming. If you want to hone your craft, you can join workshops to earn more knowledge, mingle with fellow poets, and learn how to improve your performance.
If you want to promote your craft and master your skills in front of an audience, check out open mic nights. You can find upcoming events on the Toronto Poetry Slam Facebook page, which is frequently updated.
Pro Tip:
Go to as many workshops as you can to grow your network.
Volunteering and Supporting the Scene
You can always volunteer at the Toronto Poetry Slam. It doesn’t matter if you’ve never performed in a poetry slam before because as long as you can provide assistance, you can submit your application to volunteer.
Although some positions do require some experience in poetry slam. But there are lots for newcomers.
There’s a wide range of roles for volunteers, such as merch sellers, timers, scorekeepers, and photographers. This is ideal if you’re new to the industry or want a behind-the-scenes look.
Plus, it’s a great way to support local poets. You can help them sell their merch so they can concentrate on their performances.
Pro Tip:
Consider volunteering if you want to gain free entry to events and see the back-end operations.
What Are Some Poetry Slam Venues and Practical Tips
Location and Venue Details in Toronto
Media credit: paul.edward.costa
Aside from the annual Toronto Poetry Slam, there are also various events throughout the year. These are usually smaller and include poetry slams and open mic nights, which typically last a couple of hours.
There’s no set venue for all the events, but they’re still held in Toronto. The usual venue they use is The Drake Hotel on Queen Street West (some are held in local cafes).
For smaller events, the venue will be smaller too. It’s best to arrive early to secure a seat because it’s going to be limited— some events will allow for standing room once all seats are filled.
When it comes to accessibility, there’s no guarantee. It’s best to contact the staff to check if the place is wheelchair-accessible or has features for individuals with mobility issues.
Pro Tip:
If the event is in or near a cafe, you can hang out for a quick coffee break before the start of the show. This way, you can avoid traffic (especially if it’s downtown) and you can arrive early.
Tips for First-Time Attendees of Poetry Slams
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The rules for the audience of poetry slams are simple. Listen to the poets— clap, snap, and cheer because audience interaction is encouraged.
But do remember to respect the environment. If something triggers you, you can walk away for a while to take a quick breather.
Remember: don’t harass and intimidate on and off the stage. This is a thought-provoking place because the topics are usually serious, so expect emotional reactions but remain respectful of everyone.
If it’s your first time on the stage and want to know how to perform at the Toronto Poetry Slam, don’t worry. If you’re nervous, just take a deep breath and start performing— you’ll be surprised at how supportive the audience and fellow poets can be.
Just make sure you have your material ready. It’s normal to get anxious about facing the audience, but you can get through it once you say your first sentence— don’t worry too much about perfecting it the first time!
Pro Tip:
Be ready for engagement. If you’re in the audience, don’t forget to snap and cheer because this is absolutely a part of poetry slam culture.
Other Poetry and Spoken Word Events in Toronto
Open Mics and Alternative Slams in Toronto
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You can find other events aside from the Toronto Poetry Slam. There are open mic nights, independent events, and poetry-inspired activities.
Some smaller events may not get lots of promotions, so it’s important to widen your network and follow spoken word pages in Toronto.
The best way to know abut Toronto poetry events is through social media and word of mouth. Your favourite poets will most likely post about activities they’re involved in, or you can check your local community’s social media pages.
Pro Tip:
Check out smaller venues and events, where there’s usually free entry. You can discover emerging talents there!
What is Toronto’s Poetry Scene Beyond the Slam
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The Toronto poetry community is very lively, given its vibrant arts and culture scene. Other than Toronto Poetry Slam, you can also join other communities that revolve around poetry.
Poets in Toronto can hone their skills and reach a wider audience by joining other events. Check out the Toronto International Festival of Authors (TIFA) for festivals and events, which include book clubs, readings, and conversations.
If you’re new in town, follow the City of Toronto Culture for updates on everything that involves arts and culture. You can hear about poetry readings, exhibitions, and workshops in the city!
To keep updated with the poetry community and everything in between, connect with your local groups. Participate in events so you can meet local poets and reach more people.
Pro Tip:
Don’t forget to click the follow button on social media pages of literary festivals and events. This is a great way to keep updated, especially since some don’t get tonnes of promotions.
