Raise the Bar

The South West's

leading live poetry night

We’ve been running blockbuster spoken word events in Bristol and beyond since 2014. Founded and directed by Danny Carlo Pandolfi, poet, rapper, cultural producer. Winner of the Sky Arts Award for Poetry (2026). 

About Us

What’s on

  • Upcoming Events

    Find out about our upcoming live events.

    Learn More

  • Retreats & Courses

    Apply for one of our writing retreats.

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  • Open Mics

    Perform at one of our open mic events.

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About

Raise the Bar is a premier live events organisation and talent development platform, providing a space for artists of all kinds of backgrounds and lyrical styles to perform their work. We invite outstanding and internationally renowned poets, as well as fantastic local talent, to perform at our live events. Winner of the Sky Arts Award for Poetry (2026).

Learn More
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  • 'One of my absolute favourite poetry nights'

    Hollie McNish

  • 'A necessary and nurturing space for up and comers as well as full-blown headliners. RTB is always first on my list if I’m looking to gig anywhere even vaguely nearby, or just to come as a fan!'

    Harry Baker

  • 'One of the best poetry nights in the country'

    Rafeef Ziadah

  • ‘From top to bottom, one of my all time favourite shows’

    Shane Koyczan

  • ‘Out-loud reactions are encouraged…shaking off traditional theatre etiquette’

    Bristol 24/7

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