Detroit Symphony Hosts "Youth Poetry Slam"

Following in the footsteps of the highly successful Poetry Slam @ The Max series, presented by the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and sponsored by Starbucks Coffee, the DSO has announced a special Youth Poetry Slam @ The Max. The one-night-only event will be held on Thursday, February 22 at 8 p.m. in Allesee Hall at the Max M. Fisher Music Center. Also sponsored by Starbucks Coffee, the Youth Poetry Slam is open to teens ages 13 to 18.

The competing poets are asked to present works featuring the theme: "Freedom, Love, Civil Rights & World Peace." The first place winner will receive a book store gift certificate in the amount of $250. The second place winner will receive two box seats to a DSO performance; the third place winner will receive two tickets to a "Jazz Club @ The Max" performance.

The Youth Poetry Slam @ The Max welcomes young spoken-word artists showcasing their talents during a three-minute performance in which they read one poem. Each poem must be of the poet's own construction and the poet may not use props, costumes, or musical instruments in their presentation.

Poets do NOT need to pre-register to compete in Poetry Slam @ The Max; however, it is recommended that they arrive early to sign up for the competition. Select members of the audience judge the performers. Kalimah Johnson of the PicNap Poetry Series will host the event, and music is provided by DJ inCreDuBle. -- www.detroitsymphony.com