Buffalo Speaks: Poetry Show takes over Buffalo Iron Works on July 16th! A spoken word show unlike anything Buffalo has seen. Buffalo-based National Poetry Slam representatives, authors, and well-toured performers will be pulling out all the stops with feature performances that include projection, music, light, and sound. For the first time, this curated veteran line up is presenting new individual work and collaborations to create a united show. You won't want to miss a moment of it. Tickets: Early Bird - $25 (Until June 1st) Pre-Sale - $30 Door - $35 VIP - $75 (limited to 25, VIPs receive a meet 'n' greet with the artists, balcony access, and a merch package with signed books, prints, and more from the artists) FEATURED PERFORMERS: Brandon Williamson: Williamson is the creator of the Pure Ink Poetry Slam, and Buffalo's Slam Master. He has performed nationally and internationally for the last two decades, representing Buffalo on the national level six times. Robin Lee Jordan: Jordan is a teacher, poet, writer, multi interdisciplinary artist, event organizer, & zinemaker who values youth empowerment; creating accessible platforms for people to share their work & ideas; activating artists in service of their communities; artistic spontaneity; and creating encouraging spaces. Receiving an MFA in Poetry from Oregon State University, Robin has produced many zines, and published multiple chapbooks of poetry. Deia Elwadi: Elwadi's poetry is a reflection of her internal dialogue, a testament to the human experience in all it's messy glory. She's been featured on WBFO's What's Next, the Pure Ink Poetry Tapings, and at the Buffalo AKG, among many others. She regularly tours her poetry across the country, recently returning from a stint in Atlanta, GA. Ten Thousand: Marquis "Ten Thousand" Burton is a spoken word poet, educator, and curator. Working with Shea's Performing Arts, C.A.O, Say Yes Buffalo, he has taught young writers to discover their voice through poetry while celebrating their stories for more than a decade. He has represented Buffalo in National Poetry Slams for a decade and was the official team coach for three years. He was also the curator of poetry talent for the Music is Art festival for six years. Justin Karcher: Karcher is a Best of the Net- and Pushcart-nominated poet and playwright born and raised in Buffalo, NY. He is the author of several books, including Tailgating at the Gates of Hell (Ghost City Press, 2015). Recent playwriting credits include The Birth of Santa (American Repertory Theater of WNY) and "The Trick is to Spill Your Guts Faster Than the Snow Falls" (Alleyway Theater). Megan Kemple: Kemple is a multidisciplinary writer, performer, & teaching artist. In 2025, her latest chapbook A Heretic Without a Home was released through Arcana Press, and two of her short plays, "Tough Love" and "Where There's a Will" were produced as part of the Chain Theatre's One Act Festivals Off-Broadway. As a slam poet she placed 3rd in the Rookie Slam at the National Poetry Slam 2017, and 3rd in the NUPIC Slam at NPS 2018, where her team placed in the top 10. Ben Brindise: Brindise is a writer living and working in Buffalo, NY. His poetry has appeared in places such as The Buffalo News, Buffalo Spree, the My Next Heart: New Buffalo Poetry anthology, and Just Buffalo Literary Center's Poem of the Week. He is the co-creator of the Caffe Aroma Poetry Night Open Mic and has represented Buffalo, NY at the national level four times. His debut chapbook, ROTTEN KID, was archived at Poets House in NYC in 2017. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT: Doors 6pm From 6pm-7pm: Grab a seat, grab a drink or food from the full service kitchen & bar, and get the energy up with our DJ. VIP meet 'n' greet for VIP ticket holders. Show: 7pm - 9pm with intermission Buffalo Iron Works 49 Illinois St, Buffalo, NY 14203 Tickets: $30 ADV // $35 DOS Doors: 6:00pm Show: 7:00pm Ages: 18+ All-In Pricing Notice In accordance with New York State law, all ticketed events must display the total price of admission upfront — including all fees, charges, and taxes. This means the price you see listed is the final price you’ll pay. No hidden fees, no surprises at checkout — just full transparency from the start.