Poetry Slam Rules

1. Each poem must be your own work. Referencing, sampling, and/or parodying other poems may be permitted, but the poem must be clearly distinct from the outside work.
2. No props or costumes. You may use whatever is on stage and available to all poets while performing. Putting on or taking off clothing may be considered use of a prop. A costume is any piece of clothing that’s not part of your regular street clothing, worn intentionally to enhance the performance.
3. No pre-recorded audio or live instrumentation. You can beat-box, sing, or tap out a rhythm on your body.
4. Keep it under three minutes. Once you’ve reached the time limit, you have a ten second grace period before point deduction. The performance will lose .5 for each additional ten seconds.
5. Your time begins once sound leaves your mouth. You can take your time adjusting the mic and getting situated.
6. Memorization is not required. Feel free to bring a sheet of paper, a chapbook, or your phone to the stage.
7. If you are unable to read your poem onstage owing to a permanent or temporary impairment you may have a substitute reader perform the poem so long as A) You’re in the space and clearly visible to the audience and B) the reader delivers the poem without significant affectation that draws attention away from you.

The most important rule: Don’t be a jerk. The poem may not include sexist, racist, homophobic, or transphobic comments. Use your common sense. For more guidance on this issue, please see our community guidelines.