The Loud Poets Slam Series is hitting the city as part of its biggest UK tour yet, and for the first time ever, VERVE Poetry Festival is hosting the Birmingham Heat at the iconic Birmingham Hippodrome.
Poets from across the West Midlands and beyond will battle it out in this high-energy slam, bringing their best words, rhythms, and stage presence to compete for a coveted spot in the Grand Slam Final in Edinburgh.
Expect spine-tingling performances, raw emotion, and lyrical brilliance as some of the region’s finest spoken word artists take the stage. This is poetry like you’ve never seen before—live, loud, and electrifying!
What’s at Stake?
The winner of this heat will take home £200 and secure their place in the 2025 Grand Slam Final in Edinburgh, where they’ll compete for the ultimate £3,000 cash prize.
With a total of 56 sign-ups, this is the biggest heat outside of Edinburgh so far—so expect the best of the best.
Meet the Poets
This year’s lineup is packed with powerhouse poets, each bringing their unique voice and fire to the mic. Competing in the Birmingham Heat are:

And making a special appearance as the Sacrificial Poet, setting the tone for the night, is none other than Casey Bailey—one of the most dynamic voices in UK poetry today.
What is the Loud Poets Slam Series?
Founded in 2014 as Loud Poets, this series has grown into one of the most exciting spoken word competitions in the UK. Now running across Scotland and England, the Loud Poets Slam Series showcases some of the most powerful voices in contemporary poetry.
With VERVE Poetry Festival partnering for the Birmingham Heat, this event promises a phenomenal night of spoken word, bringing the community together to celebrate creativity, competition, and the sheer magic of poetry performed live.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss This
Unforgettable Performances: This is poetry with impact—bold, emotional, and unfiltered.
Fierce Competition: Every poet is bringing their A-game for a shot at the final.
Electric Atmosphere: Feel the energy of a live audience as every verse lands and every story unfolds.
Witness a Future Champion: The poet who wins this heat could go on to take the £3,000 grand prize in Edinburgh!
How to Get Involved
Grab your ticket now to witness the action live at the Birmingham Hippodrome. Spread the word—bring your friends, support local poetry, and experience an unforgettable night.
Book your ticket now and be part of poetry history! iamloud.co/slam
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