In Memory of Giselle Robinson
Giselle B. Robinson, born in St. Thomas, Virgin Islands, brought her vibrant spirit and raw talent to Texas by way of New Jersey in the early 2000s. She quickly became a pillar of the Southwest poetry scene, her distinct St. Thomas accent and powerful poetry leaving an indelible mark on all who encountered her work. Giselle’s voice, her words, and her storytelling style reflected the deeply rooted West Indian values and traditions that shaped her upbringing. She was warm and smooth, yet profound and vibrant, embodying the essence of the Caribbean Sea. A celebrated performer, Giselle competed on several local slam teams multiple times, representing her community on national stages and at poetry competitions across the country.
Our Story
Founded by Michael Hatcher and Jasmine Games, The Poet House is deeply rooted in the legacy of Michael’s poetry upbringing under Giselle Robinson—a nationally awarded poet who nurtured and supported poets in her home, affectionately named "G's House." Inspired by Giselle's commitment to community and storytelling, The Poet House seeks to honor her legacy by creating a space where poetry and storytelling inspire change and foster connection.
The Poet House began with grassroots poetry cyphers on the streets, organized under the every.Word Poetry banner. These gatherings brought poets together to share their words, build community, and reclaim public spaces as stages for self-expression. What started as an impromptu act of connection evolved into a dynamic organization dedicated to amplifying diverse voices and stories.
As a fiscally sponsored project of The Austin Creative Alliance, The Poet House serves as a hub for artists, educators, and activists. With programs like every.Word Poetry, which uplifts spoken word artists through workshops and performances, and Courageous Cadence, which empowers youth voices, The Poet House amplifies the stories that matter most. Rooted in inclusivity, artistry, and social justice, The Poet House is dedicated to fostering creativity, connection, and empowerment through the transformative power of words.
Our Mission
The Poet House, based in Austin, Texas, is dedicated to fostering a vibrant national community of spoken word poets—primarily serving poets of color, queer poets, poets with disabilities, and youth poets. Through productions, open mics, workshops, and resources, we empower artists to express their voices, share their stories, and connect with audiences across the country.
Our Vision
We envision a vibrant, interconnected community of spoken word poets across the nation, where diverse voices are celebrated, and artistic expression is valued. Rooted in Austin, Texas, our programs and resources aim to elevate the art of spoken word, inspire future generations of poets—especially those from underrepresented communities—and foster lasting connections that empower individuals and enrich the broader community.
Our Artistic Disciplines
Spoken Word
Poetry
Theatre Arts
