Fall 2026 COMPAS Youth Spoken Word Showcase
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Fall 2026 COMPAS Spoken Word Showcase
COMPAS is looking for youth in grades 7 to 12 who are interested in participating in a unique Spoken Word concert.
Participation includes a coaching opportunity with COMPAS Spoken Word artist Frank Sentwali and a professional showcase for the community at the Highland Park Recreation Center Auditorium (1978 Ford Parkway, Saint Paul, MN 55116).
10-12 young artists will be selected from the applications received.
All activities are free of charge, and performers will receive a stipend.
Sharing your work:
Please submit up to 2 Spoken Word pieces with their working titles (Word doc, PDF, or photos are accepted). You should include a short artist statement/bio with your name, school name, and grade. If you have not participated in or worked with COMPAS before, we also recommend sharing a video of your Spoken Word piece.
Timeline:
- Deadline to Submit Work: October 31, 2026, at 11:59 pm
- Lineup Decided, and Young Artists Notified: November 11
- OPTIONAL FREE Workshops with COMPAS Teaching Artist Frank Sentwali: October 10, from 10:00 am–12:00 pm &/or October 24, from 2:00–4:00 pm.
- HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Coaching session with COMPAS Teaching Artist Frank Sentwali: Saturday, November 21, from noon–2:30 pm
- Workshops and Coaching at the Community Action Partnership Building (450 Syndicate St. N, Saint Paul, MN 55104).
- Showcase at the Highland Park Community Center Auditorium in Saint Paul: Thursday, December 3, 2026, doors at 6:30 pm and performance at 7:00 p.m. (participants arrive at 5:00 pm for a dress rehearsal and mic check)
If transportation is a barrier, contact brittany@compas.org.