CONGRATULATIONS to the following students for their outstanding performances at the “Poetry Out Loud” local competition Sunday, Jan. 26. Juniors Andrew Jones, Lena Landau, Matlyn Haze Miller, and senior Marissa Fahrenbruch each performed dramatic interpretations of two memorized poems before a panel of judges.
Matlyn Haze Miller received the overall champion award and will continue on to represent Saginaw in the state competition in March, which will be held in Lansing. Marissa Fahrenbruch was first runner up.
Special thanks to ELA teachers Mrs. Karen Horwath for coaching the SASA team in literary and dramatic interpretation techniques, and Mr. Jared Morningstar, who was MC of the event.
Poetry Out Loud, a national poetry recitation competition for high school students, is in its 20th year. Sunday’s performance marks the first time students in Saginaw have entered the first round of competition.
Matlyn Haze Miller was awarded for her performance of “Among Women” by poet Marie Ponsot and “Dust” by poet Dorianne Laux. Marissa Fahrenbruch was awarded for her performance of “Advice from Rock Creek Park” by poet Stephanie Burt and “Alive” by poet Natasha Sajé.
The final State champion will advance to the National finals in Washington D.C. to compete May 5-7 for the grand prize, a college scholarship of $20,000
Congratulations to all students who competed! You all did a wonderful job and received many compliments from the judges and sponsors who attended. The dramatic interpretation of literary works is an art form all its own, and you all certainly showcased your artistry today. We are so proud of you!