How to Get Nasty

• 9PM—Sign-up list goes out, closes after 8 poets (additional poets will compete for wildcard spot)
• 9:15PM—Host goes over rules with competitors
• 9:30PM—show begins
• Two poets names are drawn from hat, poets determine who goes first (using rock-paper-scissors). Both poets perform. Audience determines via applause who advances to the next round.
• Rules: Bracket-style competition; 3-minute time limit, no grace; improvise or come prepared, but work must be original; no topic is off limits, but hate speech is not tolerated; no props, costumes, animal acts, or musical accompaniment; all performers are solo—no duets or group pieces.
• As soon as a rule is violated (time-limit, props, etc.), the host will stop the poem in progress. Audience will vote on performance as was.
• Four match-ups in round one. Cut to four poets for round two. Round three is only two poets.
• Poets need 3-4 poems to win competition (2 more if competing for wildcard). Winner is usually allowed a victory poem as well.
• Be prepared to improvise if necessary.
• Winning poet takes half of door cash, at least $200, and a Nasty Slam shirt (if size available).