Calling local poets and songwriters! Come share your stories, stanzas and songs at Swindon’s cosy open-mic night.

Join us for an open-mic night at the Swindon Poetry Café! Whether you’re a poet or a songwriter, this is your chance to share your work live and connect with fellow creatives. Bring your verses, play your tunes, and enjoy a relaxed, in-person vibe with others who love words and music.

What?

A warm, friendly space to grab a drink, buy a cake and share your stuff (or support others sharing theirs).

Twelve open-mic spots (3 minutes) are available on a first-come, first-served basis, by emailing hello@torncurtain.co.uk, or by signing up on the door for remaining spots. We provide one vocal mic and you can plug in one instrument (bring your own jack cable!).

Where?

Caffe Vialottie is a family-run coffee shop in Redhouse, with the aim of helping people reconnect after the division of the pandemic. Serving a top-notch selection of teas, coffees, hot chocolates, soft drinks, baked goods and snacks, a team of devoted staff share a desire to bring people together and create an environment that replicates 'home'.

Who?

The Swindon Poetry Café is organised and hosted by local slam-winning poet and producer, Rebecca Rocker (@rebeccarockerwrites). She is the Swindon Mayor's Poet and also produces Swindon Wordsmiths, a popular poetry and comedy night in Abbey Meads. Rebecca's workshops and events focus on creating safe spaces to weave words, share stories and connect communities.

Our September headliner is Jake Wild Hall (@jakewildhall), an award-winning poet and one half of Bad Betty Press. He has performed on BBC Radio and at festivals and literary events across the UK. He is a multiple slam champion and his debut collection, Alanis Morissette, published by Broken Sleep Books in January 2026, was recently longlisted for the 2026 Jerwood Prize for 'Best First Collection'.

You do not want to miss this one!

Money matters...

All open-mic performers and audience members need to buy a ticket. The ticket price covers the cost of producing, ticketing and running the event, plus paying our brilliant headliner.

We have a 25% discount code for under 18 year olds. If you are over the age of 18 and face financial barriers - just email us for the code (no questions asked!) and apply it before you check out.

Why not?

Don’t be shy - come and share your words with us this September!

Description supplied by the event organiser.