Natalia '24 to Represent Collegiate in Regional Poetry Out Loud

Friends Natalia C. ’24 and Lilia M. ’23 are no strangers to the spotlight. Both active theater performers gave their all and went head-to-head for a chance to represent Norfolk Collegiate in this year’s regional Poetry Out Loud competition.

Poetry Out Loud is a national poetry recitation competition that encourages students to learn about and memorize great poetry. The goal of the competition is to help students master public speaking skills, build self-confidence and learn about literary history while exploring contemporary life.

Each year, students participate at school, regional, state and national levels. This year Lilia and Natalia participated in Collegiate’s competition with poems they chose from the Poetry Out Loud anthology. Both delivered poignant renditions of the top picks. Natalia, who was last year’s runner-up and is a veteran Poetry Out Loud contender, selected “They Buried Their Son Last Winter” by Serhiy Zhadan and “This is the Honey” by Mahogany L Browne. 

Lilia, also a returning participant, recited "Smoke in Our Hair" by Ofelia Zepeda and "Diameter" by Michelle Y. Burke.

Natalia will now compete in the regional competition this Saturday, Feb. 11, 2023. The competition will have the top three from each semi-final round moving on to the state competition in Richmond. 

Good luck, Natalia!