Join us for the 1st Words & Verses of 2026, Ipswich's first & longest running dedicated spoken word open mic (est 2012).

We are delighted to announce that W&V will be moving to the New Wolsey Theatre, in the gorgeous upstairs bar, for our monthly event. Monday 9th March / Tuesday 7th April / Monday 11 May / Monday 8 June 

The days have changed slightly (to work around the theatre show load-ins) but it'll be the same gloriously inclusive, silly, wordy nerdy fun. The venue is truly accessible, having won an award for their work, so there is step-free access and a lift to the upstairs bar too.

Poetry / Rap / Comedy / Storytelling - Covers & originals - All words welcome. (Roughly) 5 mins per person. 18+

The biggest change is that all attendees - participants and audience alike - must book a ticket to attend. The upside of this is that we will have a truly special space, with top notch tech equipment, and a dedicated collection of people in attendance. All here for the same reason.

I really am so hugely excited to have this protected space for Words & Verses, for the very first time in its 14 year history. We've always worked hard to create a supportive space to amplify marginalised voices, and promote artistic experimentation, so please forgive us asking you to book. The benefits are going to be huge. Im looking forward to hearing all those pins drop when you share your beautiful words, stories, poems, ideas, hopes and dreams with us on the mic.

The event is run on a 'Pay What Your Feel' basis, with all income going to support our local communities. The New Wolsey Theatre is a registered charity, and SoapBox Spoken Word CIC is a legal non-profit organisation (CIC). The options are: £0/5/10/15/20. We have always championed socio-economic diversity and access to the arts for all budgets (and none), so please choose whichever option works for you. 

ReLaunch date: Monday 9th March 2026 - 6pm-9pm - latecomers welcome.

18+ Adult language content warning. 

Can't wait to see you in March.

xx