Attending a spoken word performance isn’t just about showing up—it’s about stepping into a unique and transformative experience. Spoken word is a nuanced art form that demands something rare from its audience: intentionality. If you’re new to the world of poetry or want to level up as an audience member, here’s your guide to making the most of the experience and giving the performers the respect they deserve.
Check Your Vibe
The most important thing is to go on a night when you’re relaxed and open to sharing perspectives. No high expectations—just a willingness to immerse yourself in the moment. Spoken word isn’t the time for chit-chat or distractions; it’s an evening of thought-provoking, soul-stirring vibes.
Respect the Mic: Spoken word is unlike other forms of entertainment. It’s not karaoke or a casual hangout. It’s an invitation to step into someone’s world, unfiltered and raw. Be mindful of the space—minimize talking, silence your phone, and give your full attention to the performers. Whether it’s a seasoned pro or an open mic newcomer, they’re sharing a piece of themselves, and your role is to honor that.
When you respect the mic, you’re not just listening—you’re actively participating in the experience, creating an atmosphere where the performer can thrive and the audience can connect.
Experience the Experience
This isn’t about being passive—it’s about engaging fully. The artist knows what you need, but you have to meet them halfway. Cheer. Snap. Clap. Grunt. Scream. Let yourself respond authentically to the emotions they evoke.
Spoken word is a collective experience, and your reactions are part of the magic. When the audience shows love, the energy becomes electric, lifting the performance to new heights. Don’t hold back—spoken word is about feeling deeply and sharing that with the room.
Remember: it’s not just a performance; it’s a once-in-a-lifetime moment, every single time.
Take It Easy
Take it easy. This art form isn’t a promise. We don’t have the responsibility of cheering you up—go to the comedy spot for that. Poetry is the frown to the laughter. Everything shouldn’t be designed to make you feel good.
Poetry is about perspective, and it’s not obligated to make you feel good. But it’s never meant to make you feel bad either—unless you happen to align with the critique in the topics being shared. Poetry shows us the brighter colors and clearer lines of life.
When you leave a spoken word event, you should have a better perspective and deeper appreciation of life. That doesn’t always mean you’ll leave with a smile, but you’ll leave with something meaningful. Be present, and I guarantee the experience will serve you in the way you need.
Final Thoughts
Spoken word is a shared human experience. It reminds us that, despite the pull toward isolation, we need one another.
For those new to the scene, know this: your role as an audience member is just as important as the poem itself. Your energy, presence, and willingness to engage create the space for poets to share and for the magic of connection to unfold.
Whether you snap, cheer, or sit in quiet reverence, show up with intention. Poetry is permission—permission to feel, to think, to connect. Respect the space, embrace the moment, and let the experience change you.