Poets, Writers, Rhymers: Speak Out on Gun Violence Auditions April 10; Victoria Theatre ʺGrand Slamʺ April 25

Release Date: Thursday, March 26, 2015

Contact: Erica Fields, Human Relations Council, 937‑333‑1413

Dayton‑area high school students are invited to audition for a competition showcasing spoken word expression about gun violence and its effects on lives and communities.

The Speak. Be Heard. Be Considered. spoken word grand slam will bring 15 high performing poets, writers and rhymers to the Victoria Theatre stage on April 25 at 6:00 p.m., using poetry and hip‑hop to make a difference. Winning performers will have an opportunity to record a compilation CD in the University of Dayton Street Sounds Recording Studio.

Auditions will be held on April 10, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., at the Dayton Cultural Center (40 S. Edwin C. Moses Blvd.). Audition appointments must be confirmed by calling 937‑333‑1413. Following the audition, chosen performers will polish their skills at a workshop scheduled for April 20.

The Speak. Be Heard. Be Considered. spoken word grand slam is presented by the Dayton Human Relations Council with support and participation by the Victoria Theatre Association, University of Dayton ArtStreet, Metaphorically Speaking, the Community Initiative to Reduce Gun Violence and the Community‑Police Council.

For more information about Speak Week activities, call 937‑333‑1413 or go to www.daytonhrc.org/speak.