The state final of the Australian Poetry Slam, hosted for the first time by Queensland Poetry Festival. After six slam heats around the state, the final 12 will bring the noise to see who will be going to the national final at the Sydney Opera House later this year.

Featuring sets by Performance Poetry World Cup Champion Rebecca Rushbrook (NSW) and in her only QLD performance, Mayda Del Valle (US) – who has appeared on Broadway, read at the White House and been on six episodes of Russell Simmons HBO Def Poetry Jam. This is spoken word live, loud and proud. Hosted by Australia’s best dressed slam MC Adam Hadley and presented by Queensland Poetry Festival and Word Travels, with support from State Library of Queensland.

Celebrating its 19th year, the Queensland Poetry Festival: Language is a Virus, is set to be another fantastic weekend of spoken word, music and performance from Friday August 28 to Sunday August 30. Featuring a range of poets and artists from all across Australia and the world, this 3 day event will showcase exciting collaborations, book launches, music, workshops, performances and so much more. Head to the Queensland Poetry Festival website to view the full program of events and additional Satellite Events.