El Dorado County, CA celebrated its 2025 Poetry Out Loud champion, Erin Levinson of El Dorado High School, whose masterful recitations earned her top honors in this prestigious poetry competition. Her renditions of 1969 by Alex Dimitrov and Fairy Tale with Laryngitis and Resignation Letter by Jehanne Dubrow were praised for their emotional resonance and flawless delivery, distinguishing her among a talented group of finalists.
Amber Baker of Mountainside Middle College High School took second place, while Alivia Chen from Oak Ridge High School claimed third. Kaitlin Fuller of Union Mine High School and Julianna Rowe of Ponderosa High School also made the finals, showcasing the depth of talent across the county’s schools. Although Rowe was unable to attend, her qualification speaks to her literary prowess.
Held at Imagination Theatre, the event underscored the value of poetry in cultivating creativity and confidence among youth. Educators, including Lead Teachers Denise Ivelich, Heather Brooks Freer, and others, played a pivotal role in guiding students through the program, while judges, families, and supporters amplified the spirit of the evening.
Erin Levinson now moves on to represent El Dorado County at the state-level competition. Her success not only celebrates individual artistry but also reflects the vibrant literary culture within the community. Congratulations to all participants for their dedication to the art of poetry and for inspiring others with their passion and performance!
Poetry Out Loud is a national poetry recitation competition that encourages high school students to learn about poetry through memorization, performance, and competition. Participants master public speaking skills, build self-confidence, and learn about literary history and contemporary life.
In El Dorado County, the 2025 Poetry Out Loud Finals took place on Thursday, February 6, 2025, at Imagination Theater. The event was free and open to the public, with doors opening at 6:30 pm and the competition starting at 7 pm.
The competition structure is similar to a spelling bee, beginning at the classroom or school level, progressing to county and state levels, and culminating at the national level. In El Dorado County, the contest offered the following prizes:
- 1st place: $100 cash prize and advancement to the State Finals
- 2nd place: $75 cash prize
- 3rd place: $50 cash prize
At the California state level, the champion receives a $200 cash prize and $500 for their school to purchase literary materials. The state champion also earns an all-expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C., to compete in the National Finals, where substantial scholarships are awarded.
For more information about the Poetry Out Loud program in El Dorado County, you can contact Jordan at Jordan@ArtsAndCultureElDorado.org.
