On Sunday nights, the Revolution Café and Bar turns into a hot spot for spoken-word artists. What once started as a small group that got together to share poetry, has turned into a major event boasting a full house of around 50 to 70 people every Sunday.

Mic Check started back in 2005, and in 2010 became a non-profit organization hosting open mic, slam poetry events and the Texas Grand Slam Poetry Festival, which brings in poets from all across Texas.

Every Sunday, they have open mic where poets, songwriters and actors are given the chance to sign up and perform original work, or cover a favorite piece. Every second Sunday of the month, they host a poetry slam, which focuses specifically on poetry. Three people are randomly selected from the audience to judge, and participants go through three elimination rounds where one person will emerge as the winner. The organization is open to anyone who wants to come out and showcase their work, or just want to check out the scene.

Mic Check will host their fifth annual Texas Grand Slam Poetry Festival October 9-10. This year’s lineup will feature approximately 42 poetic competitors and a $1200 Grand Prize. Check out their website www.texasgrandslam.com for more information on registration, tickets, and parking.