The ‘Eurovision for the Spoken Word’ has been contested since 2019 and is aimed at increasing cultural participation within individual cities as well as showcasing local talent on an international stage.

Last year Manchester poet Esther Koch took home the crown and so, following the format of the competition, Manchester is the host for 2024. We’re so excited to have Griot Gabriel representing Manchester as the winner of the local heats, now it’s time to see who will win between the 14 UNESCO Cities of Literature taking part in the competition.

With a mixture of live and live-streamed performance, judging videos that promise to be hilarious from sister cities around the world and some really exceptionally talented poetry – it’s sure to be a night to remember.

Join us in person at Manchester Poetry Library 7-9pm on the night to hear all the performances from 14 poets representing the very best of  UNESCO Cities of Literature spoken word.

Manchester City of Literature legend Reece Williams will be hosting and there will be special guest performances from Manchester’s Multilingual City Poets.

Please note that the event will also be live streamed to our YouTube channel and you do not need to book a ticket to access this, tickets are only required for the in-person event in Manchester.