Swindon Wordsmiths is an evening of spoken word poetry and comedy organised by Swindon people, for Swindon people. Whether you want to get up and perform, or sit back and watch, Swindon Wordsmiths has something for all poetry and comedy lovers to enjoy.
You'll find us at The Well, a relaxed and friendly church space at the Abbey Meads village centre. Come join us for a night of spoken word, open mic, comedy and all-round great vibes.
Follow @torncurtainco and @swindonwordsmiths on Insta to stay up to date with event info.
Line-up
Swindon Wordsmiths is hosted by local comedian, Abbie Doyle. We'll have a stand-up set from returning local comedian, Tam Vanum, plus we’ll be treated to a headline stand-up set from David Joey, a storyteller-poet who grew up in Bristol and is now making a name for himself in London. Our resident poet, Rebecca Rocker, will be also be back to curate and perform the much-loved Audience Poem.
Open-mic
There are five open-mic slots (5 mins for poets, 10 mins for comedians). Peformers can sign-up for in advance by emailing hello@torncurtain.co.uk. We'll confirm slots at least two weeks before the event. Open-mic performers do not need to buy tickets.
Key information
Date: Saturday 13th December 2025
Time: Doors open at 7pm for a 7.30pm start
Venue: The Well, Abbey Meads Village Centre, Swindon, SN25 4YX
Parking: Free, at the venue
Tickets: £5 (Early Bird discount) / £6 (from 01.11.25) / £8 on the door (cash and card accepted)
Drinks: Bring your own. We will provide the glasses. There is a Tesco Express at the Abbey Meads Village Centre.
The heart behind it
Swindon Wordsmiths is a safe space for comedians, storytellers and poets to share their stories with humour and heart.
Many of the organising team are Christians, with a passion for encouraging creativity and conversation in the local community. The venue is a church, but Swindon Wordsmiths welcomes any/all expressions of faith.
We want to:
- Create a supportive environment for creativity and connection.
- Be a non-judgmental place to share stories and spark conversation.
- Give people a great night out, offering an alternative to the narrative that Swindon is ‘one of the worst places to live in the UK'!
- Showcase comedy/poetry that is engaging, entertaining and accessible.
- Celebrate ordinary people and their extraordinary stories.
- Platform voices that uplift, inspire, encourage and challenge with care.
