On Saturday, November 18, 2023, the 23-24 Poetry Out Loud participants will compete in the Southeast Ohio regional semi-final at Stuart’s Opera House. The Semifinal is free and open to the public—no ticket required. This annual event brings together high school students from across the SE who memorize and recite classic and contemporary poetry. The top-scoring students at the end of the competition will be announced as state finalists (I.e., there will be no first, second, or third place), and the state finalists will be invited to compete in the Ohio Poetry Out Loud State Finals.

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 for 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. Poetry Out Loud is a partnership of the National Endowment for the Arts, Poetry Foundation, and the state and jurisdictional arts agencies. Learn more.