BBC Introducing and Contains Strong Language Team Up to Find UK’s Next Spoken Word Stars
BBC Introducing has joined forces with Contains Strong Language, the BBC’s top poetry and performance festival, to uncover the brightest emerging spoken word talent across the UK.
Words First: A Talent Boost for Aspiring Poets
This exciting partnership is part of the BBC’s Words First development scheme, designed to sharpen artists’ spoken word skills and boost their stage confidence. Chosen acts will dive into digital workshops guided by seasoned performers and mentors, helping them refine their craft.
How to Enter: Your Chance to Shine on a Live Stage
Want in? Aspiring poets can submit a two-minute original spoken word piece via the BBC Introducing uploader starting Thursday, July 13. The deadline to apply is Sunday, July 30. Each BBC Introducing regional team will pick one standout act, producing a shortlist of 35 hopefuls.
The organisers want “passionate individuals from across the UK who draw from poetry, lyricism, rap, hip-hop, and beyond, eager to elevate their skills.”
Workshops, Judges, and The Big Showcase
- All 35 shortlisted artists will join online workshops with spoken word pros Young Identity and Apples and Snakes.
- They’ll create fresh pieces inspired by what they learn.
- A panel of expert judges will narrow the field to eight finalists.
- Those eight will perform live at the Words First Showcase on Sunday, September 24, at Leeds’ Howard Assembly Room—right in the heart of the Contains Strong Language festival.
This is the ultimate platform for the UK’s new poetic voices to make their mark. Don’t miss your shot at spoken word stardom!
