To participate in Poetry Out Loud is an experience that broadens ideas, bolsters confidence and provides a wonderful sense of accomplishment. This is the first year since 2019 that Maine Poetry Out Loud competitions are held in person. After two inspiring regional recitation events, ten finalists are moving on to the state finals on Monday, March 13, at 6 p.m.  at the Olin Arts Center in Lewiston.

The Participants

Innana Piccininni - Bangor High School, Mackenzie Chaput - Gardiner Area High School, Abigail Case - Hermon High School, Willow Knowles - Kennebunk High School, Charlotte Schatz - Maine Coast Waldorf School, Lyra Legawiec - Mt. Ararat High School, Marcus Gallagher - Oak Hill High School, John Punnachalil - Oceanside High School, Jaime Bueya-Mbiyavanga - Portland High School, Alice Willette - Waterville Senior High School.

Portland Poet Laureate, Maya Williams and 2018 Maine POL champ, Allan Monga Jr. will host with a keynote speech from Maine Poet Laureate, Julia Bouwsma. Performer, Janoah Bailin will provide creative, energetic entertainment between rounds of recitation.

The competition will consist of three rounds of poetry, with the five highest scoring reciters advancing to the final round. One state finalist will be named the overall winner and will advance to the national competition in Washington D.C. to compete for a total of $50,000 in awards and school stipends, as well as a $20,000 scholarship.