Class

Spoken Word Poetry for Beginners: A Class for Writers of Color and Indigenous Writers

Is there a poem in your journal that’s waiting to be performed on stage, but you aren't sure how to do it? In this workshop, participants will embark on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment through performance poetry known as spoken word. It is ideal for those who want to understand the elements of spoken word and perform poems for the stage! You will be challenged to embrace vulnerability as a powerful tool for exploring your artistry. Through discussions, performances, writing and breathing exercises, participants are encouraged to explore their personal experiences, emotions, and perspectives to serve as the foundation for crafting poems that are authentic and impactful.

We will master the art of word choice and understand how to use symbolism and simile to enrich poetry, and how to use metaphorical language to evoke emotions and vivid images to convey complex ideas with clarity. To effectively communicate poems to an audience and capture listeners, we will experiment with various performance techniques. We will use voice, rhythm, and body language as communicative tools to build confidence during performances and add depth. This workshop will provide a nurturing and intellectually stimulating environment for your poetic evolution. Allow yourself to be seen, to be heard, and to be healed as you venture into verse through spoken word poetry!

This class takes place in-person, at the Loft at Open Book; we encourage participants to be fully vaccinated and masked in the interest of everyone’s safety. Please see the Loft’s website for the most up to date information about the Loft’s COVID policies.