9th Annual Katipunan Poetry Slam
Join us for the 9th Annual Katipunan Poetry Slam, a celebration of Filipino artistry and free expression, hosted by Search to Involve Pilipino Americans’ (SIPA) HiFi Collective on Saturday, October 26, 2024, in the heart of Historic Filipinotown, Los Angeles. This electrifying event invites poets and performers to channel the revolutionary spirit of the Katipunan, the Filipino group that fought for independence in the 1890s, as they take the stage for an evening of powerful spoken word.
Location:
HiFi Collective – 3200 W. Temple St., STE 100, Los Angeles, CA 90026
Parking:
Free residential parking available on Temple, Robinson, and Dillon Streets.
Event Highlights:
- Competitors:
Some of the brightest Filipino-American voices in poetry will battle for top honors. Featuring Ashley C. Lanuza, Demetri Manabat, Jaime Estepa, Johnny Swoopz, KP, Laraisabird, Maria Bolaños, Matt Balane, RJ Abesamis, and Soul Stuf. - Calibration Poet:
Rozlind Silva will set the tone for the night with a powerful opening performance. - Host:
The event will be emceed by arianna lady basco, ensuring a lively and engaging atmosphere throughout the evening. - Sound Selection:
Music by Miko / Yungbuko to keep the energy flowing. - Food:
Delicious Filipino fare provided by HiFi Kitchen, offering a taste of home for the audience.
Sponsors:
The event is proudly supported by Search to Involve Pilipino Americans (SIPA), Palms Up Academy, HiFi Kitchen, Los Angeles Poet Society, Street Poets, Arts in California Parks, Parks California, and FilAm Arts.
Honoring the Tradition of Balagtasan:
For Filipinos, poetry slams are a modern echo of the balagtasan, a traditional form of poetic debate rooted in political discourse. In the same vein, the Katipunan Poetry Slam offers a platform for poets to express themselves, share their stories, and engage with the community, all while invoking the revolutionary spirit of their ancestors.
Competition & Prizes:
The competition is fierce, with emerging artists, published authors, and seasoned slam champions vying for the top spot. Prizes include:
- 1st Place: $300 and the prestigious Joe Limer Memorial Trophy
- 2nd Place: $200
- 3rd Place: $100
Funding:
The 9th Annual Katipunan Poetry Slam is funded in part by the Arts in California Parks Local Parks Grant Program, administered by Parks California through FilAm Arts.
This is more than just a poetry slam—it’s a gathering of voices, a celebration of heritage, and a chance to hear stories that resonate deeply within the Filipino community. Come experience the power of words and witness how they continue to inspire, inform, and unite. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable night!