Factory International

Callout: BREATHE Dance & Poetry Slam

Calling all dancers and poets – it’s time to unite for a groundbreaking collaboration!

Dancers performing on stage. The image has a red hue.

About

BREATHE is a dance and spoken word competition in which pairs of dancers and poets battle against each other, performing duets that showcase their complementary styles while telling a single story.

Are you a poet with words that can move the soul? Or a dancer whose movements speak louder than words? This is your chance to merge these powerful art forms into one dynamic and captivating piece.

We’re looking for passionate artists aged 16+, who are ready to push boundaries and redefine performance art. Selected artists will showcase their creation at BREATHE Dance & Poetry Slam and enter the ultimate competition for a chance to win £200, split between the winning duo.

To apply, please complete the application form with examples of your work in video format (two minutes). Let’s create a unique fusion of spoken word and dance!

Photo by Joel Fildes.

How it works

Eight poets and eight dancers will be selected to participate in the slam.

Collaborate: Selected artists will team up at a workshop day to create an original piece that blends spoken word with dance.

Compete: Your piece will be entered into the slam, where it will battle against other teams in a high-energy showdown.

Win: The final battle will crown one duo as champions, taking home the £200 prize.

We have been inundated with applications previously, so if you’re not chosen for the line-up, there's always a chance you’ll make it on our reserve list!

Key dates

Monday 9 September: applications close at midnight

Wednesday 11 September: selected poets and dancers will be notified

Please ensure you are free to participate on the following dates:

Wednesday 18 September, 6–9pm: workshop at Aviva Studios with a lead poet and dancer

Wednesday 25 September, from 7.30pm: BREATHE Dance & Poetry Slam at Aviva Studios

Slam rules

Original Work – each poem must be of the poet’s own creation

Three Minutes – each poet gets three minutes (plus a 10-second grace period) to read one poem. If the poet goes over grace time, points will begin to be deducted from the total score.

No Props – performers are not allowed to employ the use of props during their performance. Just the poet and the stage!

BREATHE consists of two rounds. After each poem, the poet receives a score out of 10 for content and a score out of 10 for performance from each of our three judges.

The scores are added together to create their final score, deciding whether they will make it to the final round.

The slam consists of two rounds. The poets with the highest scores move on to the next round. The Winner will get the chance to close the night with a final performance.

First Round: 8–10 Poets

Second Round (Final): 3–4 Poets

Apply now

Please click the link below to complete the application form and submit your work for consideration.

Apply now →

Credits

Young Identity

D.R.E.A.M. Ring  

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