Free two-day youth Spoken Word and Social-Emotional Learning intensive in Toledo
Special to The Truth
New Works Writers Series, an organization dedicated to preserving and celebrating artistic voice in Northwest Ohio since 1989, announces its upcoming youth initiative: “OUR VOICES, OUR FUTURE.” This free, two-day intensive workshop combines Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) with spoken word poetry and stagecraft for local youth, ages 12–18.
Designed to empower young writers to express their personal truths and develop key social-emotional skills, the program guides participants through original creative writing, vocal mechanics, performance techniques, and live stage presentation.
Program Schedule & Location
* Day 1 (Writing & SEL Workshop): Saturday, September 12, 2026; 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
o Focus: Crafting original poetry, emotional reframing, and exploring personal agency and resilience.
* Day 2 (Rehearsal & Showcase): Saturday, September 19, 2026; 3:00 PM – 7:30 PM
o Focus: Stagecraft, microphone technique, overcoming stage anxiety, and a live 6:30 PM community showcase for parents, board members, and neighbors.
* Location: New Works Community Stage
Workshop Highlights
* Self-Awareness & Resilience: Participants learn to turn personal experiences, challenges, and aspirations into impactful spoken word poetry.
* Master Class in Stagecraft: Hands-on instruction covering breath control, projection, microphone technique, and public speaking confidence.
* Community Showcase: Youth gain the opportunity to perform their original work live on stage before family, supporters, and community leaders.
Registration Details
Participation is FREE, but space is limited to 20 youth participants to ensure individualized guidance. Pre-registration is required.
To reserve a spot, parents or guardians should email the participant’s name, age/grade, school, and parent/guardian contact information to newworks1548@gmail.com.
ABOUT NEW WORKS WRITERS SERIES
Founded in December 1989, New Works Writers Series is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing, preserving, and celebrating theatrical, literary, and musical art in Northwest Ohio. Through workshops, stage productions, and youth initiatives, New Works builds community, fosters literary excellence, and empowers emerging voices across the region.