about spit nights
poetry.
but not how you remember it.
SpitNights is a spoken word event series redefining poetry for a new generation.
we put poetry back where it belongs - on big stages, in buzzing rooms, surrounded by people snapping fingers, laughing, leaning forward, and feeling something together.
since launching in April 2024, SpitNights has grown from a simple idea into one of the world’s fastest-growing poetry platforms - welcoming thousands of audience members in real life and tens of millions more online. if you thought poetry wasn’t for you… you’re exactly who we made this for.
why spit nights exists
Spit Nights started because co-founders, Cece Kutevu and Danny Mash went to a lot of poetry nights…but usually alone.
For most young people, poetry was just that anthology thing you had to study at school, or that scene from 22 jump street. A poetry show wasn’t high on the list of potential night out options.
But, what if poetry felt more like a gig?
What if it welcomed people who’d never been to a poetry event before?
What if it was lively, heartwarming, and a little unpredictable?
In April 2024, Spit Nights was born, taking poetry out of stuffy rooms and onto big stages.
what to expect
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moments of collaboration, surprise and spontaneity
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a charismatic host with MC energy guiding the night and warming up the crowd
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poetry and spoken word designed for live rooms, not quiet classrooms
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a crowd that’s supportive, responsive and genuinely up for it
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some nights with improvised live music, some nights with pure poetry — always led by the words
our mission
we’re here to change the perception of poetry.
poetry doesn’t have to be niche, intimidating or locked behind “insider” culture. it can be loud. emotional. funny. messy. accessible. a shared experience.
SpitNights exists to build a new community of storytelling and celebration - one where poetry feels culturally relevant, socially engaging, and genuinely exciting to be part of.
trusted by venues across the UK
The Jazz Cafe
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Roundhouse
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Ministry of Sound
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Number 90
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Lost Village festival
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Band on the Wall
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The Old Market
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The Jazz Cafe • Roundhouse • Ministry of Sound • Number 90 • Lost Village festival • Band on the Wall • The Old Market •
FAQs
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we host shows at various venues - make sure to check the event page for full details (via DICE or our linktree)
previous shows have been at iconic venues such as:
The Jazz Cafe, Roundhouse, Ministry of Sound, Southbank, Band on the Wall, The Old Market, The Minstry and Number 90, as well as festivals like Lost Village.
2026/2027 schedule:
PURE POETRY | 1st & 2nd fridays of the month @ The Ministry, borough
POETS V SINGERS | 3rd thursdays of the month @ Number90, hackney wick
JAZZ CAFE RESIDENCY 27th jan | 28th apr | 28th jul | 27th oct
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very. in fact, a huge part of our audience is made up of people who’ve never been to a poetry night before.
the room is warm, welcoming, and guided by a host who makes sure everyone feels part of it.open mic/wildcards slots are open to all levels
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PURE POETRY | comedy club meets storytelling night (seated)
POETS V SINGERS | loud and lively, great if you want some heartwarming poetry but also a little boogie too (mostly standing)
POETRY MEETS IMPROV JAZZ | our biggest show, with the best headliners - think jazz bar vibes
as well as these different style shows, we also choose different poets/musicians for each night so every night is unique and never-to-be-repeated
what stays consistent is the energy, the quality, and the feeling of being in the room for something that’s happening right now.
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not at all. loads of people come solo, and many leave having made new friends and even partners
SpitNights attracts an open, friendly crowd, and the shared experience makes it easy to feel connected, even if you arrive on your own. -
if you’re interested in bookings, sponsorship or collaborations, get in touch with Danny at danny@spitnights.co