How to Perform Slam Poetry
Slam poetry is a form of modern performance art that ‘slams’ powerful messages in the form of a poetic display. It is often used to bring important and powerful messages to a modern audience. Whether you are looking to be the star of a show or just eager to learn, here are some tips and tricks for how to perform slam poetry.
Acknowledge Your Audience
When presenting any piece of work in front of an audience, the first step is to acknowledge and connect with your listeners. This is no different in slam poetry where you should begin with a friendly smile, wave, or bow. This small action will alleviate some of the audience’s nerves and make them feel more comfortable. Your words and their understanding is dependent on the atmosphere that you create and a friendly welcome can set the tone of your slam.
Choose Your Material Wisely
When you are picking a poem to perform, choose something meaningful and memorable. Something with a strong underlying message that resonates with you is your best bet. It will help establish a connection between you and the audience. Practice your piece until you feel confident with it. If the piece requires you to stick to a beat, practicing with a metronome can assist for a smoother delivery.
Wait for the Right Moment
Although it is tempting to jump up on stage and perform the second the opportunity arises, try to wait for the right moment. Know exactly when it is appropriate to go on stage and brush away any negative thoughts. If you sense that the atmosphere is right, then that is your time to shine. Just remember to stay calm and do your best.
Find the Right Volume
Finding the right volume for your poem is key. Everyone has their own preference for the correct volume, so don’t be afraid to experiment. Find a level where you make your message heard but you feel comfortable speaking. Don’t be afraid to take your time and speak each word at a slower pace.
Own the Stage
Your performance depends on how confident you appear on the stage. Taking up space and using physical movements can help make a powerful statement. If you are passionate about your poem, verbally and physically express that passion to relate to the audience. Be sure to make frequent eye contact with the audience to engage them and establish connection.
Manage Your Breath and Time
Managing your breath and time are key elements to a good slam performance. Always make sure you practice your poem enough times to ensure they fit within the time limit. You don’t want to rush through the words or leave someone hanging mid-sentence. Practicing and timing your poem will help you be confident and comfortable when performing.
Learn To Pinpoint Your Audience Reactions
Finding out your audience’s reaction and pinpointing how many will be responding to your slam poem is key. Watch for body language and applause to know how well you did. Everyone wants their work to be recognized, so assess how you were received at the end of the performance. A good performance is all about the amount of your effort, so don’t be discouraged if you get a few comments back.
Practice, Practice, Practice
The golden rule of performing slam poetry is to practice, practice, and practice some more. Rehearsal will help to polish up your poem, build your confidence, and ensure that you have the best performance possible. A great performance is one that is well-rehearsed and lived through. Mark words and cues so you know where to pause, enunciate, and put emotion into your slam.
How to Choose a Topic
When choosing a topic or theme to write or perform a slam poem about, consider what topics are relevant and important to you. What do you care about and what causes do you believe in? Choose something you are passionate about and use the poem as a way to voice your opinion. Choose something that resonates with your audience and speak on it. Whether it’s about politics, friendship, relationships, love, or something else, pick something that stirs emotion and expression in your listeners.
Where to Find Inspiration for Poetry
If you’re struggling to come up with a topic or theme for a slam poem, seeking out inspiration in books, films, TV shows, art and even conversations can be beneficial. Listen to or read other slam poetry pieces and imitate the techniques that they have used. You can also research and draw inspiration from events and places. Be creative and don’t be shy to diversify the topics you cover.
How to Incorporate Movement
When performing a slam poem, it is important to incorporate some form of movement or gesture. Movements can help make powerful and impactful statements, so use them when necessary. This will also help you not only interact with the poem on a different level, it will help you to engage the audience better. Movements can be as simple as a hand gesture or as complex as a full body action – the choice is yours.
How to Rehearse Your Slam Poem
When it comes to actually performing your poem, discovering what feels comfortable to you is key. Spend some time experimenting at home to find a performance style that is best for you. Rehearsing with a friend can also help with any issues or nerves you may encounter. Get as much advice as you can and even film yourself as you recite it in front of a mirror. This will help to develop a consistently high-quality performance.
Take Advantage of Performance Opportunities
To develop and keep developing your slam poetry skills, it’s important to take advantage of performance opportunities. Public venues that host performances or open mic nights, offer a way to practice and develop. You should treat them as learning opportunities and accept all the growth that your slam poem needs. These venues help you to be seen by other listeners and can help you get an impression of how audiences respond to your work.
Tips for Performing in the Moment
The most important thing when it comes to performing a slam poem is staying present in the moment. Forget all the nerves or fears that come with performing and let your words take over. Remember why you chose this poem and why you are performing it. Channel the emotion and let it take control of your performance. Also, make sure to have a copy of your poem on hand so if you lose your place, you can recover and not lose time.
