Well...first in Austin and now here in Mpls, whilst innocently drinking my way around town, minding my own damn non-literary business, performance poets would crop up. Some I happened to catch in bars, clubs with open mic nights and more lively poetry slams. Info on that
here But, barely verbal myself, it was not something I sought out, yet admired when I found it interesting. This summer the National Slam was held here and I did go to some rounds- it was fascinating. I think I was just catching some serious contenders, seeing the best. And it was great. Its competitive but supportive too. It is, of course, very closely linked to hip hop- there's also a strain that is more literary/jazz based. Music, dance have featured in some instances, but the focus is words. Not a quiet beatnik reading- but rather rowdy at times.
The McSweeny/Giants show is another thang. Its prose readings, but with musical response. I dont think its specifically a competition, but framed as an exciting battle of...well...maybe giants. The event is thurs 10/24. I should know more afterwords. But really wondered if any Philadelphians had seen it awready. Guess not. Maybe it'll suck. We'll see. I'm intrigued.