WATERVILLE, ME- MARCH 11: Joao Victor of Lewiston High School shouts with joy after he was named winner in the Poetry Out Loud state final held at the Waterville Opera House on Monday, March 11, 2019. Other contestants behind him from left are Emily Campbell of Waterville High School, Hanna Lavenson of Messalonskee High School and Magnolia Vandiver of George Stevens Academy. (Morning Sentinel photo by David Leaming/Staff Photographer)
Waterfall Arts is partnering with the Maine Arts Commission to create this qualifying competition for students whose school is not holding a competition this year or are homeschooling. To participate in the competition, video recitation files must be received by Friday, January 21. The winner(s) from this competition will proceed on to the Maine State Regionals. Ten students from the regional competitions then compete in the Maine State Finals. The winner from the Maine State finals competes in the National Poetry Out Loud competition with students from around the country.
Poetry Out Loud is a national arts education program that encourages the study of great poetry by offering free educational materials and a dynamic recitation competition to high school students across the country. This program helps students master public speaking skills, build self-confidence, and learn about literary history and contemporary life.