Poetry enthusiasts are invited to join the Poetry Slam at the “Pegasus Courtyard”

On 22 May, a poetry slam will take place in the guest room of “Pegasus Courtyard”, part of the three slams planned in Liepāja. Similar series of slams will also be held in Rīga (five in total) and Daugavpils (three). They are organised by the “Totaldobže” Art Centre.

The series culminates with the Latvian National Poetry Slam Championships in November, where finalists from each city will compete. The winner will represent Latvia at the European Poetry Slam Championships in Košice, Slovakia.

The Poetry Slam welcomes poets of all backgrounds to share their work. Each participant must be prepared to recite three poems by heart over three rounds. Registration is open on-site before the event.

Each poem must be performed within a three-minute time limit, and no musical instruments are allowed. If used, the participant will be disqualified. A jury, comprising poets, writers, publicists, philosophers and other intellectuals, along with audience members, will provide feedback.

Poems can be in any language, but if not in Latvian, they must be translated, with four copies either in print or in legible handwriting handed over to each jury member. Judges and audience will score each poem based on performance and content, advancing six top-scoring poets to subsequent round, followed by three next winners into the finals.

The final winner will receive a prize of EUR 50.

The first Liepāja Poetry Slam will commence on 22 May, at 19:00. Entrance fees are EUR 5 for participants and public, EUR 3 for students and seniors, and free for those under 18. Tickets will be available at the door, with more information provided on "Pegasus Courtyard" and “Totaldobže” social networks.

This event is supported by the State Culture Capital Foundation.