Join us for the first workshop in the Loud Poets Spoken Word Workshop Series!
The building blocks of any poem are the words: not only the words in the poem itself, but also the words used to introduce and conclude it, and to interact with the audience during a performance. In this workshop, we’ll explore and learn key techniques for composing engaging, dynamic poetry performances for the stage.
Through watching and discussing examples, we’ll identify structures and devices commonly used in spoken word poetry, including circularity, repetition, rhythm, and rhyme. We’ll examine the distinctions between poetry composed for the stage versus the page, including why accessibility is so important in spoken word. Through multiple creative writing exercises, you'll not only draft new poetry but also gain helpful strategies for composing descriptive, compelling work that you can use in your regular practice. Finally, we’ll think outside the poem to how your introductions, transitions, and other speech provide key context for your poetry, and how to consider these words when planning a performance.
No prior writing or performance experience necessary. Whether you’re brand new to spoken word or a seasoned performer looking to brush up on your skills, all are welcome!
This workshop is 4 hours long, with two 10-minute breaks and one 20-minute break halfway through. It takes place on Zoom.
This is the first workshop in the Loud Poets Spoken Word Workshop Series: WORDS BODY SPACE. Taking all three workshops provides a comprehensive guide to spoken word poetry (and a bundle discount!); however, if you're just interested in developing a specific skillset, you're welcome to sign up for just that workshop. You don't need to attend the other workshops in order to understand and participate in any given workshop.
About the facilitator: Dr. Katie Ailes is one of the UK's leading experts in spoken word poetry. Her doctoral thesis investigated the performance of authenticity in UK spoken word, with recent research focussing on the evaluation of embodied poetics. Since 2015 she has worked with Scotland's premiere spoken word organisation I Am Loud CIC as a poet and producer, and she currently serves as its Education & Access Director. She has taught at the University of Strathclyde and regularly facilitates creative writing and performance workshops for organisations, schools, and festivals across the UK and internationally. A celebrated poet, Katie has shared her work on stages, screens, and in print for over fifteen years. She has performed ten runs at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, and in 2023 she served as the Glastonbury Festival Poet in Residence. Learn more at www.katieailes.com.
I Am Loud CIC is Scotland’s premiere spoken word poetry organisation. Since February 2014, they have produced award-winning spoken word poetry events—including showcases, slams, open mics, touring shows, and workshops—across Scotland, the UK, and Europe. Their 2023 Loud Poets Slam Series won the Saboteur Award for Best Regular Spoken Word Event in the UK. In addition to their live programming, their YouTube channel features hundreds of poems, podcasts, workshops, and other resources. Learn more via www.iamloud.co.
This workshop series is part of the Loud Poets 2024-25 Season, made possible with the support of Creative Scotland and the National Lottery.
