Best Spoken Word Events in LA

The art of spoken word is becoming more popular thanks to social media and the rise of Instagram poetry. What used to be underground is now calling greater attention to local poets, musicians, and performers throughout Los Angeles. While large-scale organizations continue to maintain their notoriety, it’s important to seek emerging venues in order to retain a high-caliber of artists that serve our community. Though larger shows tend to cater to “slam poets”, who are more adept at performance poetry, the intimate shows provide support to emerging writers who may have different styles of performing. LA has a variety of open mic events showcasing a wide range of artists with different styles, backgrounds, and mediums. 

Whether you’re a performer looking for new venues to share your work, or a fellow poetry lover who want to enjoy a memorable show, here's a list of several incredible open mic events in Los Angeles worth attending: 

1. Da Poetry Lounge

Fairfax, Los Angeles  
Entry Fee = $10 

Da Poetry Lounge is one of the longest-running open mic events in the nation. Founded in 1998, Da Poetry Lounge attracts lively crowds of various backgrounds who all wait in line every Tuesday to perform. The theater is like any other: there’s a mic, a spotlight, and a DJ that will blast music if you exceed your 3-minute time limit. So, make sure you practice! I also advise arriving a few hours early so that you’ll have a good chance at performing. I know it’s a long wait,  but at least there’s free parking!

Photo by Beyond Baroque

2. Beyond Baroque

Venice
Entry Fee = FREE (Donations suggested) 

Since 1968, Beyond Baroque serves as one of the most notable literary arts centers in the country. They provide a public space for the literary community to get together at countless events such as readings, workshops, and open mics. Most of their open mic events are held at their theater, bringing a diverse crowd of both old and young poets together to celebrate a communal love for poetry and the literary arts. Unlike most spoken word events, Beyond Baroque’s stage is very intimate. There is no mic, so the performer will have to rely on the acoustics of the room for their performance. All in all, it’s a great place to share your work, meet new people, and network. 

3. Art Share LA

Arts District, DTLA 
Entry Fee = $10  

Art Share LA has provided programs and spaces for underground artists since 1997, including exhibitions, open mic events, classrooms, and more. Their recent open mic event, Wordplay Weekend hosted by Aamar Blair, is held the second weekend of every month and welcomes not only poets but also rappers, musicians, dancers, and comedians. This allows the audience to enjoy a more diverse show of high-quality performers who all share the same motive: to share their art. All attendees can also enjoy the perk of free parking!   

Photo by PS Poets

4. Philosopher’s Stone Poetry

Greater Los Angeles Area (Various) 
Entry Fee = varies 

Also known as PS Poets, it was founded by Chase Maser and Sergio Cacciotti in 2015 and has flourished into an eclectic community of writers, musicians, and artists throughout the greater LA area. They host open mic events, publish books, and run monthly “Poet of the Month” contests on their social media. Unlike traditional open mics, PS Poets isn’t bound by one location. They partner with different venues across LA which bring variety to the community it serves. Sign-ups are done through email, so be sure to subscribe to their newsletter to get updates on upcoming events! 

Photo by PS Poets

5. Sideshow Books

Near Pico-Robertson
Entry Fee = $5 

Another intimate gem, Sideshow Books is a remarkable independent bookstore with a cozy outdoor patio for a wide variety of events. Their open mic event, The Backyard hosted by Jenna Dorn, offers a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Performers & attendees can explore the vast bookshelves while they wait for the show to start. There's also ample time before and after the show to mingle and meet new people.

There’s no denying that we have a thriving poetry and arts scene in LA. Open mics are a great way to discover new talent, showcase your work, and make new friends. And with a variety of events to choose from, both small and large, you can decide on which event(s) is best for you!