In June I attended the National Federation of State Poetry Societies’ Annual Convention via Zoom. With the theme “From Page to Stage,” I expected to experience extensive poetry and delve into workshops that focused not only on the art and craft of writing but also of speaking and performing. I was delighted by what transpired. 

From my earliest years reading rhyme-enriched children’s books, I’ve felt the power of poetry read aloud. I’m now convinced (and equipped with some great how-to tips) that anyone can effectively perform poetry. One may not start by hopping up on the nearest stage, but one can—and probably should—at some point. The only way to grow is to do it:

• Just starting out? Not so keen on public speaking? Try a PST poetry share: it’s a friendly setting where you can read your own work or read something by a published poet.

• Want to grow as a poet on page and stage? Try a critique group: these supportive circles allow people to work on writing while also reading poetry aloud. 

• Ready to hone your skills? Try an open mic event in your community. Most are very supportive, and first-timers get warm welcomes. Become a regular for steady practice. 

• Ready to test your mettle? Enter a slam contest! Why not go big? Bill Hill braved a national contest stage and found the experience to be amazing!

During the convention, Ed Mabrey (a fine poet, and Slam’s GOAT) explained that slam is not a type of poetry but a poetry contest. You can have haiku slams, sonnet slams, themed slams, slams of original work or of classic or contemporary poets’ works, etc. You don’t even have to memorize your poems to slam: just give great voice to poetry. He also reminded us we’re not just poets working our craft: we ourselves are poems—poems that each offer a unique gift to the world.

If you are interested in working your “stage” skills, email poetrytennessee@gmail.com. Let us know your perceived strengths and challenges and things you would like to work on. We’ll develop tip sheets and/or a workshop dedicated to the spoken and stage side of poetry.

I invite all of you to “Say it out loud!” Let’s discover a lovely array of poetry and let the world learn more about the amazing “poems“ our PST members are.

With anticipation—
Lisa Kamolnick
President, Poetry Society of Tennessee