Swindon Poetry Café - Open-Mic - Nov 2026

Calling local poets and songwriters! Come share your stories, stanzas and songs at Swindon’s cosy open-mic night. Join us for an open-mic night at the Swindon Poetry Café! Whether you’re a poet or a songwriter, this is your chance to share your work live and connect with fellow creatives. Bring your verses, play your tunes, and enjoy a relaxed, in-person vibe with others who love words and music. What? A warm, friendly space to grab a drink, buy a cake and share your stuff (or support others sharing theirs). Twelve open-mic spots (3 minutes) are available on a first-come, first-served basis, by emailing [email protected], or by signing up on the door for remaining spots. We provide one vocal mic and you can plug in one instrument (bring your own jack cable!). Where? Caffe Vialottie is a family-run coffee shop in Redhouse, with the aim of helping people reconnect after the division of the pandemic. Serving a top-notch selection of teas, coffees, hot chocolates, soft drinks, baked goods and snacks, a team of devoted staff share a desire to bring people together and create an environment that replicates 'home'. Who? The Swindon Poetry Café is organised and hosted by local slam-winning poet and producer, Rebecca Rocker (@rebeccarockerwrites). She was the Swindon Mayor's Poet (25/26) and also produces Swindon Wordsmiths, a popular poetry and comedy night in Abbey Meads. Rebecca's workshops and events focus on creating safe spaces to weave words, share stories and connect communities. This month, Rebecca will step out of host mode into headliner mode, to share poems from her recently released debut poetry collection Blink - poems for long days and short years. There's a new book out in the world and it's time to celebrate! For one month only, friend and fellow poet, Megan Ludlow, will be hosting the Swindon Poetry Café. Megan will bring her characteristic warmth and wit to our little poetry party, making space for your words while wowing you with her own. Money matters... All open-mic performers and audience members need to buy a ticket. The ticket price covers the cost of producing, ticketing and running the event, plus paying our brilliant headliner. We have a 25% discount code for under 18 year olds. If you are over the age of 18 and face financial barriers - just email us for the code (no questions asked!) and apply it before you check out. Why not? Don’t be shy - come and share your words with us this November!