Poets Welcomed to Test Their Skills for Cash With ‘The Zoo Slam’

If you're a poet and you know it (I immediately regret that but I'm sticking to it) then you could be using your skills to win a cash prize.

A poetry slam event, The Zoo Slam, is taking place in Kalamazoo in August. Organized by artist Dana Hudson, or Great Dane Poetry on Facebook, this poetry slam event is also offering a $100 cash prize.

Where and When?

The Zoo Slam is scheduled for August 21st from 6-9pm. Valhalla Kalamazoo, the taproom for City Union Brewery and Norse Nectar Meadery, is hosting the event at their location: 3408 Miller Road in Kalamazoo.

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Can Anyone Participate?

Absolutely. However, there are some requirements:

• You must be at least 18 years old to participate
• It costs $10 to enter or $15 the day of
• No props
• All poetry read must be original. Plagiarism is not tolerated

There are only enough spots for 18 poets with 15 participating in the contest and 3 backups in case someone decides to skip the event.

If you plan on participating (and want to try to win that $100 prize) you should come prepared with three different, original poems. You can find a full list of rules and what to expect if you're competing here.

Volunteers Needed

The Zoo Slam is in need of volunteers for the event. If you feel up to it they're in need of:

• Timekeepers
• Scorekeepers
• Judges (you cannot be a judge if you know someone in the contest)
• General event help

Like the contest, you must be at least 18 years old to volunteer. You can find the sign up sheet for volunteering here.

For those who just want to attend this event is free of charge. You can find more information on The Zoo Slam's event page on Facebook.

Whether you need some inspiration to start writing your poems to use in a poetry slam or are just looking for some general inspiration for your life...check out these quotes from Franklin Roosevelt: