Yellow Lamp Rooftop Rumble

A spoken word competition for poets to share new work in a relaxed yet structured format. With strong interest through an open call, selected performers competed before an engaged audience and a panel of judges. The event encouraged artistic expression and community connection, with standout performances reflecting diverse voices, including newcomers to Tāmaki Makaurau. Feedback praised the inclusive atmosphere, with suggestions to make it an annual event and introduce new audience focused features like a “people’s champion.” Funding enabled artist payments, a welcoming venue, and professional support, contributing to the event’s success and the continued growth of the spoken word community in Albert-Eden. This was a sold out event with 60 audience members and 20 participants.
“The Yellow Lamp rooftop rumble event was the first time in a long time that I felt truly supported to share my poetry with the community. It was really nice to have a low-stakes, fun approach to competition that encouraged me and my poet colleagues to write and perform something new. One of my favourite poets on the night was a Polish woman who shared an ode to her new life in Tāmaki Makaurau. Such a comfy, cosy event that made me feel so at home.”