7th strike of poetry power “Poetry Slam” ignites a firestorm of words, comedy and creativity at new venue

If poetry is the matchstick and the mind is its sulphur, then for the seventh time it has struck again – igniting the minds of patrons’ time and time again at the monthly Poetry Slam event. It would be remiss to suggest that this art form is still being tested, as it has led individuals to return over and over again, drawing them deeper into its growing creative space. This month’s edition is set to take a slightly different direction, with a new location and the inclusion of comedy in the lineup. The show is hosted on the last Saturday of every month. This month, it will be held on April 25 at a brand-new artistic venue-the Boulevard located at Giftland Mall.
Striking a rich blend of imagery, metaphors, alliteration, and rhythm in the minds of patrons, the event – now in its seventh staging – was started by three friends who have been the backbone of this growing spoken word movement, which has ultimately led to the production of a wider body of poetic work time and time again. Among this month’s performers are award-winning poets and National Poetry Slam winners, including Keba Evelyn, the current reigning National Poetry Slam champion; Mishael Henry, the 2024 National Poetry Slam winner; and spoken word poets such as Ezekiel, Cherry-Latiefa Agard, Chico Rodney, Mark Luke Edwards, and Carleen Gilker, among others.

Speaking with the Guyana Times, Organiser Mark Kazim, explained that this event differs from other art forms, noting that he has witnessed vast support among poets who continue to help one another grow and excel in their craft.
“Now, I’m especially proud that the poetry slam has developed into a community vibe where poets help poets, creatives help creatives, to put something on stage that is worthy of the ‘oohs, ahhs, and wows’, making people go through emotions every night. We’ve had people in the audience who say, ‘Wow, I’m never missing this show. Once I’m around, I will come to the poetry slam.’”
He added that there is only one way to truly experience the magic, and that is to attend the event firsthand.

“And you will see exactly what I mean when you come to the poetry slam. We also invite poets, budding poets, or people who want to be involved in poetry to come and be inspired. We’ve had many poets come, say something on the open mic, either win or receive a really good review, and the next month they are featured artists. Every month there is an audition process where people are invited to submit pieces to be featured at the poetry slam.”
Kazim further noted that the event also features singers, performers, comedians and painters, with several surprises planned for this edition. In fact, this month’s edition of the poetry slam is set to take a slightly different direction, introducing a refreshed creative element that Kazim says will add a new layer to the experience for patrons.
“We have a fashion designer…someone in Guyana who is doing an amazing job with paintings on clothing and we are going to bring this person to light at this poetry slam. I’m excited about it because it’s an idea I’ve been playing around with, and now I’ve found the perfect person to bring it to life.”

“We also have a comedian to perform. This will probably be the launching of a new band, a collaboration of singers, so I’m very excited. I don’t want to let the cat out of the bag, but I can’t wait for this to happen. Tickets are available at the Boulevard and other outlets.” The main goal of the initiative is to encourage artists to continue producing and writing, ensuring that poets have a consistent platform available to them each month. Organisers emphasise that all creatives need to do is show up and participate, reinforcing the poetry slam as an open space for expression. “We want to encourage artists to keep producing, keep writing. That’s why they stay creative. So, poets know that there is a place for them every month. All they have to do is say, ‘I am using it.’ The poetry slam has often inspired me. It’s like a renewed vigour in the cultural world in Guyana.”
As with previous editions, the event will continue its tradition of giveaways, with numerous patrons having received prizes over time. Many attendees simply come to enjoy the show, with several leaving as winners of various gifts and rewards.
Tickets can be obtained directly from performers or reserved in advance via WhatsApp at 666-4883. Persons who message the number will have their tickets set aside at the door, eliminating uncertainty about entry.
The event will cater to a limited, intimate audience, with organisers emphasising a cosy setting ideal for poetry and live performances. The aim is to create a warm, communal atmosphere when patrons gather on April 25 at the Boulevard located at Giftland Mall.