To our many aspiring poets aged between 12 and 18 who dream of performing their work on stage before a live audience, the 2019 Poetry Slam might just be the event for you.

Northern Beaches Council Library Services, together with the event organiser Word Travels are hosting the Northern Beaches heat for the Youth Poetry Slam competition on 11 April at Manly Library from 5pm to 7pm.

Competitors have three minutes on stage with no props or music to recite a poem, tell a story or monologue or perform a rap.

Audience members vote for their favourite artist who will then go on to represent the Northern Beaches at the Sydney final of the Australian Poetry Slam Youth at the Sydney Writers’ Festival.

To help contestants prepare, a workshop will be held at the Warringah Mall Library on Thursday 4 April between 5PM and 7PM.

Mayor Regan urged all young poets and performers to get involved.

“This is your three minutes to wow the world with your creativity and on stage presence. Give it a go; you never know where it may lead,” he said.

“We also encourage anyone who enjoys live performance to come along and support young talent by voting for their favourite act.”

Entry to the event is free.

Media Enquiries: media@northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au 9942 2678