What is The Combine?

The Combine is an all-ages, DMV-wide annual decathlon of specific wordsmithing and performance events, giving participants the chance to test their skills in various areas such as writing, freestyle ability and public speaking, which will be evaluated by peers, mentors and coaches. Events will allow contenders to not only accumulate cash prizes and points, but to showcase talent, and build community.

Date: February 15th, 2025
Doors Open: 11:00am
Start Time: Noon
Registration Fee: $20.00 per event (slots are limited and there is a limit of two categories per contestant)
Location: Words Beats & Life Headquarters:1525 Newton Street, NW, WDC 20010

Register below for your chance to win CASH PRIZES, SWAG & more!

THE COMBINE 2025 ALL-AGES CATEGORIES

HEAD TO HEAD HAIKU
12:30pm

OTHER PEOPLE’S POETRY / MONOLOGUE MASHUP
1:00pm

FREESTYLE COMPETITION
1:30pm

PERSONIFICATION PLAYOFFS
2:00pm

COMPLIMENT BATTLE
2:30pm

WORDS BEATS & LOVE POETRY SLAM
3:00pm

Any questions dop@wblinc.org

SPONSORED BY : National Endowment Of The Arts, DC Commission On The Arts & Humanities, Humanities DC and Eaton DC