The WCR Center for the Arts pulsed with energy, rhythm, and raw emotion on Saturday, June 14, as the inaugural Bless the Mic Slam Poetry Contest brought a powerful new wave of creative expression to the heart of Reading. Organized by ThePoetSmiley, the sold-out event marked a defining moment for the city’s growing arts scene, drawing performers and spectators from across the region — and setting the stage for what many hope becomes an annual tradition.
With a crowd as diverse and dynamic as the poetry itself, the contest united voices from Philadelphia, New Jersey, Delaware, Pottstown, Lancaster, New York, and Pittsburgh. Among the competitors were both emerging voices and established artists, including current and former Poet Laureates. Each poet brought a unique perspective and presence, but all shared a common thread — an unwavering passion for the spoken word.
The night unfolded in a series of electric performances, with each participant commanding the stage through verse that ranged from deeply personal narratives to bold social commentary. By the end of the evening, three poets rose to the top:
🥇 1st Place: Tiara Baines (@chiina_bloodmire)
🥈 2nd Place: Alonzo Harris (@handy.man609)
🥉 3rd Place: Anthony Orozco (@glyph_poetry)
The contest was judged by a panel of artists, writers, and community leaders, including author Lizette Epps, Reading City Councilman Jaime Baez, Seleda Simmons of The Real Deal 610, Tiffany The Poet Fairy of New Jersey, Brad Waples of CustomIT, and poet Jay Smoov, also from New Jersey.
Yet, Bless the Mic was more than a competition. It was a celebration of art in all its forms. In addition to poetry, the event featured live painting and a marketplace of local vendors, transforming the venue into a vibrant hub of culture and connection. Music from a local DJ kept the energy flowing between rounds, while photographers captured the artistry in motion.
The event was presented with support from Queens Cafe, the evening’s Diamond Sponsor, and a host of volunteers, creatives, and community members whose collective efforts helped make the vision a reality.
ThePoetSmiley and fellow organizers hope that Bless the Mic becomes a cornerstone of Reading’s cultural calendar, offering space for voices to rise, stories to be heard, and art to thrive.
With plans already in motion for next year, it’s clear: this was more than a moment. Bless the Mic has sparked a movement.
