Two Poets Step into the Spotlight at Poetry Out Loud

On March 8, Sedona Red Rock High School students Glenna Barnes and Iolani Sutton showcased their talent at the 20th annual Poetry Out Loud state finals held at Arizona State University’s Memorial Union in Tempe. The competition, a significant event in the high school poetry recitation landscape, requires participants to deliver three poems, including a piece with fewer than 25 lines and one from before the 20th century.

Barnes and Sutton secured their spots in the state competition after excelling in the SRRHS Poetry Out Loud contest on January 21. Their performance earned them progression to the regional semifinals on February 8, where Sutton placed second and Barnes finished third, leading to their advancement to the statewide event.

Liam McLaughlin from the Gary K. Herberger Young Scholars Academy clinched first place at the state level, performing “We Used Our Words We Used What Words We Had” by Franny Choi, along with “Songs for the People” by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper and “El Olvido” by Judith Ortiz Cofer. His victory grants him a chance to compete in the upcoming national finals scheduled for May 5 through 7 in Washington, D.C.

In addition, Isabel Teran of Sahuarita High School earned second place, while Yuliana Alvarez of Rio Rico High School and Anllely Corral of Flowing Wells High School finished third and fourth, respectively.

Reflecting on her experience, Sutton shared, “A lot of the judges approached us to commend our performances. Competing with so many impressive individuals was inspiring. I executed my recitation correctly and paced it well. With more practice, I hope to reach at least the top four next year.”

Barnes emphasized the camaraderie among contestants, stating, “We all bonded over our shared nerves before taking the stage. The Q&A section was particularly enjoyable; it revealed insights into everyone’s personalities.” In her performances, Barnes chose to recite Kazim Ali’s “Rain” and Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s “The Arrow and the Song.”

Sutton captivated the audience with her recitations of “No, I Wasn’t Meant to Love and Be Loved” by Mirza Asadullah Khan Ghalib and Richard Blanco’s “Burning in the Rain.” She explained, “In ‘Burning in the Rain,’ a significant moment shifts the mood as the imagery transitions from rage to a peaceful calm.” This experience bolstered her confidence, highlighting the supportive atmosphere of the event.

Upon reflecting on her performance, Barnes noted areas for improvement. “I believe I rushed through my recitation. If I had allowed myself more time, I think the overall impact would have been greater. Despite our achievements, I felt fortunate to have made it as far as I did.”

Superintendent Tom Swaninger praised the young poets, stating, “Watching them bring their poems to life was incredibly inspiring. It requires immense bravery to perform publicly.”