Austin’s Longest-Running Poetry Slam Fosters Community Through Art

Over thirty years of venue changes and evolving stages, the heart of the Austin Poetry Slam (APS) remains a beacon of creative expression and community connection. Most recently, APS found its home with Alamo Drafthouse at their Mueller location.

Inside Austin Poetry Slam’s Weekly Open Mic at Alamo Drafthouse Mueller

The showcase at Barrel O’ Fun, the charming circus-themed bar situated within this Alamo Drafthouse location, occurs every Wednesday at 7 p.m. Sign-ups close promptly at 7:15 p.m. While themes occasionally shape the performances, the focus remains on celebrating diverse voices in an inclusive and accessible environment that welcomes everyone.

The evening includes an open mic segment, where poets perform their original pieces within three minutes, followed by a competition round that usually focuses on a specific format. However, the real stars are the audience members who, as judges, score performances based on criteria like content and delivery, fostering a dynamic and community-driven atmosphere. We recently attended, and thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

Embracing Authenticity and Vulnerability through Spoken Word

The Last Chance Qualifier Slam for their Quarter Final Slam was an especially exciting evening at Barrel O’ Fun. The energy throughout the night was welcoming and infectious, as applause erupted following each performance. Despite technically being a competition, the camaraderie and community could be felt throughout the bar as scores were read aloud and met with cheers for the high numbers from the volunteer judges. As the audience, we found each performance impactful and moving, especially the speaker’s vulnerability in a room full of strangers. Each piece highlighted authenticity and the rawness of emotions felt by the speakers, making each moment incredibly real and poignant. The evening was not only a testament to the power of personal storytelling but also a celebration of diverse voices in Austin, marking APS’ 30-year legacy in our community.

Discover Austin’s Underground Open Mic Scene

Open mic nights have long served as vibrant hubs of community and diversity, offering safe spaces for expression. Austin offers numerous lesser-known options where fresh voices and unique talents await discovery. Here are more opportunities to enjoy local open mic experiences…

Spoken and Heard
Kick Butt Coffee
5775 Airport Blvd Suite 725

The Sunday Open Mic runs from 7 – 10 p.m. Performers can present one piece, with performances typically lasting 3 to 5 minutes. Initially, it was an open mic for poetry, but now it features poets, musicians and comedians equally. 

Speakeasy Music Lounge
Speakeasy Music Lounge
412 Congress Ave #D

Every Monday at the Speakeasy Music Lounge, experience Open Mic Monday! Sign-up begins at 8 p.m. with limited spots, followed by general sign-up at 8:30 p.m. The show starts promptly at 9 p.m.
This open mic event welcomes poets, comedians, and musicians.