Our LIVEwire events began through Nymphs & Thugs in 2017. Since then, they’ve gained recognition as one of the most dynamic spoken word poetry nights in the country.
We produce events in our native city of Leeds and have recently produced semi-regular nights in Manchester and Weston-super-Mare. Long-term, we plan to have a network of LIVEwire events around the UK.
LSF 2026: Poems for Parents | 20.02 & 27.02.26
As part of this year’s Leeds Storytelling Festival programme, we’re excited to present two more Poems for Parents events. These are relaxed, baby-friendly events designed for new parents — with poems targeted at them, as opposed to nursery rhymes for the little ones!
- Toria Garbutt at Seven Arts on Friday 20 February (tickets)
- Liz Berry at Sunny Bank Mills on Friday 27 February (tickets)
Both events will run between 10-11am, and tickets are Pay As You Feel.
Roundhouse Poetry Slam 2026: Leeds heat | 24.02.26
Once again, we’ve teamed up with Roundhouse to produce the Leeds heat of their annual Poetry Slam. Join us on Tuesday 24 February as 10 of the hottest new and emerging poets from the North battle it out for a place in the Grand Final!
Guest judges include Maria Ferguson and Bradley Taylor, with Matt Abbott on hosting duties. Tickets cost £5 (plus booking fee) and are on sale here.
Barnsley Book Festival | 02.03.26
We’re delighted to be returning to Barnsley Book Festival for the second year running, with this FREE poetry showcase on Monday 2 March 2026!
The event stars Salena Godden and Toria Garbutt, with an open mic section hosted by Matt Abbott. You can reserve your tickets here.
LIVEwire Poetry 