Writers in the Schools (WITS), a Houston-area nonprofit that engages youth in the joy and power of reading and writing, invites young poets to participate in its annual poetry competition. Known as the Space City Slam Series, the free poetry competition gives young Houston-area poets, rappers, emcees, and spoken word artists the opportunity to compete for a coveted spot on the organization’s Meta-Four Poetry Team. Those who “make the cut” will be invited to perform at The Museum of Fine Arts Houston at a public event in April.

Aspiring young poets ages 13-19 are invited to participate in the Space City Slam Series.

Space City Slam Series will take place on various dates and locations throughout the spring. Sign-up begins at 6:30 p.m. and the slam begins at 7 p.m. for all dates.

Friday, Feb. 10, 2023 - Space City Prelim 1 @The DeLuxe Theater 3303 Lyons Ave. Houston, TX 77020

Saturday, Feb. 25, 2023 - Space City Prelim 2 @ Gulf Coast Cosmos Comicbook Co. 2306 Stuart St. Houston, TX 77004

Saturday, March 18, 2023 - Space City Prelim 3 @ Writers in the Schools 1414 Sul Ross St. Houston, TX 77006

Thursday, March 21, 2023 – Space City Prelim 4 @ Rudyard’s Houston, 2010 Waugh Drive, Houston, TX 77006

Thursday, April 6, 2023 - Space City Grand Slam @ Museum of Fine Arts Houston, 1001 Bissonnet St. Houston, TX 77005

To celebrate Houston’s rich cultural heritage and diversity by elevating the artistic voices of its youth.

Meta-Four is the face of the youth poetry scene, representing Houston at the annual international Brave New Voices festival. Previous Meta-Four Houston team members have gone on to perform nationally, publish their works, and receive scholarships at top colleges and universities.

To register and for more details, visit ww.witshouston.org.