Poetry Slam Grand Prix Germany

A Championship of Champions

Poetry Slam has become an established stage format in Germany. Each federal state crowns its champions, joined by representatives from Austria, Switzerland, and South Tyrol. The Grand Prix Deutschland brings them all together in Berlin – 14 to 16 state champions, one weekend, a single trophy. Whoever wins here is considered the 'Champion of Champions' for the following year.

Two Evenings, Two Venues

The semi-final takes place on Friday evening at the Pfefferberg Theater on Schönhauser Allee in Prenzlauer Berg. The atmosphere there is intimate, stone walls, beer service, slam vibes. The final on Saturday is held at the Renaissance-Theater on Knesebeckstraße in Charlottenburg – a classic Berlin private theater in the style of the 1920s. The contrast is intentional: from underground charm to an elegant stage setting.

How the Voting Works

Unlike many slams, the Grand Prix uses digital live voting: the audience submits their scores via a web app. This eliminates the traditional 5-person jury; the audience decides directly. Between the performances, there is moderation, musical interludes, and breaks for voting.

The Berlin Slam Scene

The organizer is the Berlin slam collective Kiezpoeten, which has been at the forefront of the German scene for years. Kiezpoeten organizes slams year-round in several Berlin venues and is considered the most important stage for young spoken-word talents. The Grand Prix is the highlight of their annual calendar.