The Word is a transformative literary arts program powered by an intergenerational cooperative of diverse, justice-minded spoken word artists. The Word builds community by growing radically inclusive writing and performance programs grounded in poetry, rap, and song. Through its many partnerships, The Word brings a creative life force into social action groups, movements, and institutions – expanding our collective capacity to re-imagine ourselves and our world.
LIT CYPHERS & JAMS
In 2021-2022 The Word in conjuction with our teaching artists gathered musicians, poets, and creators of all ages – including young people from our residencies and Weekly Word Workshops - in celebratory Lit Cyphers. Lit Cyphers featured a different theme each month, special guest performers, a lightning writing workshop for audience members, and an open mic where participants share new work.
This culminated with a city-wide poetry jam where young poets, spoken word artists and rappers from dozens of New Haven schools, organizations, and beyond shared their work in a non-competitive celebration of youth voice and power.
CT YOUTH SLAM
The Youth Slam was held in partnership with International Festival of Arts & Ideas. The event was held on the New Haven green where 12 students competed for monetary prizes. All who participated in the competition performed original work. The slam consisted of 3 rounds so all students prepared an original 1 minute poem, 2 minute poem and 3 minute poem. It was amazing to witness the cumulation of work that each person brought to the stage. It was a memorable night for all!
CT ADULT SLAM
The Adult Slam was held in partnership with International Festival of Arts & Ideas. The event was held in New Haven at The State House and seasoned Spoken Word Artists competed for monetary prizes. All who participated in the competition performed original work. The slam consisted of 3 rounds so all students prepared an original 1 minute poem, 2 minute poem and 3 minute poem. The Adult Slam was invitational this year but in future years there will be a sign up for half of the slots and the other half will remain invitational.