A Juneteenth Poetry Slam

Lewisville Poet Laureate James Mardis welcomes everyone to attend an evening of powerful voices and unforgettable performances at A Juneteenth Poetry Slam, Thursday, June 18, 7:30 p.m., Lewisville Grand Theater, 100 N. Charles Street.

This poetry slam will be limited to 20 competitors. Competitors must sign up online.

Competitors should come prepared with three original poems, each performed in 1-3 minutes, including one Juneteenth-themed piece for the final round. Poets will be judged on both content and performance as audience-selected judges score each round in true slam poetry tradition. Prizes will be awarded to top scoring poets.

Admission is free for this event. Audiences can expect an exciting and entertaining evening with passion, creativity, crowd energy, and powerful voices competing for a spot in the final showdown. Seating is limited and is a first come/first served basis. The Black Box will open for seating at 6:45 p.m. A cash bar will be available.

Rules for the poetry slam:

• Originality: The poem must be the original work of the poet.
• Time Limit: Each poem is limited to 3 minutes with 5 second grace period
• Time Penalties: Going over the time limit will result in a disqualification.
• Performance Constraints: The poet must perform alone and from memory. Readers will be penalized 2 points on the 10-point system.
• Content Restrictions: Language must be devoid of sexist, racist, homophobic or transphobic comments. However, anger, frustration and the like are legit emotions, just be creative in how you bring those to bear.
• Other Restrictions: Must be 16 years old or older to participate as a competitor. No musical instruments. No props or costumes.
• Allowed Expression: Poets are allowed to sing, beatbox, or create sounds with their own bodies.
• Scoring: 3 Judges score on a 0-10 scale. Judges scores can be influenced by "audience feedback."
• Prizes will include metals and gift certificates.

This event is part of the City of Lewisville's Juneteenth: The Cookout, that celebrates the heart of community. Inspired by the tradition of gathering to share stories, music, laughter, and joy, this multiday event captures that spirit - no grill required. Experience live music, comedy, poetry, visual arts, and more in a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere. Together, we honor history, celebrate culture, and embrace the freedom that brings us all to the table.

This show may contain adult or mature content.

The Grand is Lewisville's home for the arts. It presents a variety of regional and national touring performers, art exhibits, and classes, while also giving the many arts groups in the greater Lewisville area a facility to perform and display their works. Its multiple performance spaces play host to a variety of events, including live music, theater, dance performances, comedy shows, and more. The center features the 294-seat Huffines Performance Hall, black box theater, recital hall, art gallery, and courtyard.

To reach The Grand from Interstate 35E, take exit 452 and proceed east on Main Street to Charles Street. The Grand will be on the left. Free public parking is available along Main and Church streets, or at Lewisville City Hall across Church Street from the center. Please be aware that there is heavy road construction at the Main Street interchange with 35E that will cause delays.