The God Damn Debut Slam
14 December 2017
We're putting the finishing touches to our spring programme of events, which, trust me, will be worth the wait. A mix of poets even your friend who doesn't care much for poetry will have heard of, international visitors, and high-concept shenanigans, the SPL's spring programme will delight and intrigue in equal measure.
Don't think, however, that the Library in any way is walking away from its support of emerging poets and fresh material. Au contraire, from January onwards we are hosting a new event that will promote new voices. Ladies and gentlemen, please put your hands together for The God Damn Debut Slam.
The God Damn Debut Slam will take place every second Friday every month. Which means our next GDDS takes place on Friday, 9 February, kicking off at 6.30pm. After a successful run at the Banshee Labyrinth, The God Damn Debut Slam is transferring to the home of Scottish poetry, the SPL.
What on earth does this ‘Goddamn Debut Slam’ consist of, then? Glad you asked. Here’s the deal:
One round, three minutes, new material only.
Nothing more, nothing less.
No props or musical backing is allowed. You are absolutely allowed to read from paper if you want to.
The Goddamn Debut Slam will, we predict, quickly establish itself as Edinburgh's most exciting, fast-paced and unpredictable regular poetry slam. It will be the best place to see new work from fresh voices alongside veterans of Edinburgh's music and spoken word scene. Yes, that’s right. Mature poets – you too can take part. It’s not just for youngsters. All we ask is that you perform new material, same as everyone else taking part.
Needless to say, all slammers taking part get free entry to the event.
Send organisers Matthew Macdonald and Lloyd Robinson an email to sign up for an open mic slot, but remember the twist: poets can only perform brand new, unheard and untested work. Don’t fear, though, the Debut Slam is a wholesome, safe and non-offputtingly raucous environment to share your work in.
To take part in The Goddamn Debut Slam, email tgddsedinburgh@gmail.com.
Tickets cost £4 and will be available to buy on the door on the night.