These young poets are storytellers, culture-bearers, and changemakers shaping the future of Western Massachusetts’ artistic and cultural landscape.

The Academy of Music Theatre is proud to present the Third Annual Academy Regional Youth Poetry Slam, a live competition where young poets perform original work for $400 in cash prizes! As the ONLY youth poetry slam in Western Mass, this event promises to showcase the most talented slam poets in the Pioneer Valley!

From a pool of exceptional entries, the following finalists have been chosen to take the stage:

1. Izaria Thomas, Springfield Honors Academy
2. Melanie Rivas, Springfield Conservatory of the Arts
3. Elias Vega, Holyoke High School (Dean Campus)
4. Maria Roblez, Holyoke High School (Dean Campus)
5. Thanisha Martinez, Holyoke High School (Dean Campus)
6. Samara Thadison, Holyoke High School (Dean Campus)
7. Zilaij’a Lewis, Holyoke High School (Dean Campus)
8. Adrianna Serrano-Rios, Holyoke High School (North Campus)
9. Espin Santiago, Westfield High School
10. Allyson Klement, Amherst Regional High School

Hosted by renowned spoken word artist Lyrical Faith, the Academy Regional Youth Poetry Slam returns for its third year, uniting the most talented young poets from high schools across Franklin, Hampshire, and Hampden counties for an electrifying competition. This dynamic event provides a powerful platform for emerging artists to share their voices, challenge perspectives, and inspire social change through the art of spoken word.

Don’t miss this unforgettable evening of creativity, passion, and raw storytelling as these young poets take the stage to captivate and inspire. Join us in celebrating the next generation of spoken word artists and the power of their voices!

Academy Regional Youth Poetry Slam 2024 Participants and Host, Lyrical Faith

Season Sponsors

Academy Regional Youth Poetry Slam Sponsors

Fees always apply to purchase. Tickets can be purchased in person or over the phone Tuesday through Friday 3pm to 6pm. Tickets can also be purchased online at any time for no additional cost/fee. All Sales are final. If you have any questions about accessibility, please contact the box office at boxoffice@aomtheatre.com or (413) 584-9032 X105.

This event is participating in the Card to Culture Program! They will be offering 10 seats at a discounted price of $0 to any patrons with a valid EBT, WIC, or ConnectorCare card. To purchase these tickets, please visit or call the box office Tuesday through Friday between 3:00pm and 6:00pm. Limit 4 tickets per cardholder per show. Tickets are sold on a first-come-first-serve basis. Find out more at: https://massculturalcouncil.org/organizations/card-to-culture/

Ticket Prices:
$10.00

Where/ How Tickets Can be Purchased:
Purchase online using the button on the top right (scroll to the bottom of the page if using mobile), or you may visit or call our box office at 413-584-9032 ext.105.
Box Office Hours are 3pm – 6pm, Tuesday – Friday. Service fees always apply with purchase.