The event will feature live poetry performances from writers aged 12 to 21 of their original work. In slam poetry tradition, there will be an emphasis on high-energy delivery as well as the writing itself, with audience participation like finger snapping and cheers encouraged.
The contest will be overseen by former Edmonton Poet Laureate Titilope Sonuga, who will also deliver a headline performance. The judging panel also includes performance artist Pheromone Killz and Amplify Committee member Josephine Dodsworth.
Advertising for the event requests that audience members:
“Warm up your snapping fingers and settle in for an evening of high-energy poetry performance that’s sure to vacillate from emotional to playful to honest to irreverent and back again."
SLAMplify is part of Amplify St. Albert’s efforts to promote inclusive and creative events for youth in the city. The group also runs events such as The Show 10.0 and Amplify’s Artist Alley. Local arts and cultural events like this often use flyer printing, social media and other methods to better connect with the community.
The debut edition of SLAMplify will take place at the Art Gallery of St. Albert on the evening of April 16. Attendance will be free, but advanced registration is recommended.