News Summary
Orlando is now accepting applications for its third Poet Laureate to promote literary arts in the community. The selected poet will present original works at city events, enhancing the cultural landscape. The Poet Laureate Search Committee, formed with United Arts of Central Florida, will evaluate candidates based on artistic merit. Eligible candidates must be Central Florida residents aged 21 and older, with relevant literary experience. Applications are open until June 30, with the announcement of the new laureate expected in October during National Arts and Humanities Month.
Orlando is currently accepting applications for its third Poet Laureate, continuing its commitment to celebrating and promoting the literary arts within the community. This opportunity follows the tenure of Shawn Welcome, who has been the city’s Poet Laureate since 2021.
The selected Poet Laureate will be responsible for presenting original poetry at various city and community events, thus fostering creativity and appreciation for poetry among residents. City officials indicate that the new leader in the literary field will serve a vital role in enhancing Orlando’s cultural, literary, and visual arts communities.
To facilitate the selection process, the City of Orlando has partnered with United Arts of Central Florida to establish the Poet Laureate Search Committee. This committee consists of a diverse group of poets and literary leaders. Prominent members include Ryan Rivas, the Publisher of Burrow Press; Dr. James Campell, Chair of the English Department at the University of Central Florida (UCF); and local author Veronica Smith, among others.
Mayor Buddy Dyer highlighted the importance of the arts and poetry to the city’s cultural identity, emphasizing the role of the Poet Laureate as the official storyteller of Orlando. The announcement of the new Poet Laureate is expected to coincide with National Arts and Humanities Month in October.
To be eligible for consideration, candidates must be at least 21 years old and reside in Central Florida. They should also possess relevant literary experience and be prepared to provide artistic samples as part of their application. Interested poets can submit their applications through the United Arts of Central Florida website until June 30.
The inaugural Poet Laureate of Orlando, Susan Lilley, served from 2018 to 2021, setting a precedent for the role that has had a lasting impact on the community. During Shawn Welcome’s tenure, he made significant contributions to the local arts scene through initiatives such as the Words & Wonders Poetry Contest, along with performances in various venues across Orlando.
The Poet Laureate Search Committee will convene in July to review applications based on artistic merit and the applicants’ experiences. The goal of the position is not only to engage the local community but also to inspire young poets and encourage the growth of literary talent in the region.
As Orlando strives to uplift its artistic community through the Poet Laureate program, the city aims to create an environment where poetry thrives, ultimately enhancing the cultural landscape for all residents.
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Additional Resources
- Your Community Paper: City of Orlando Seeking Poet Laureate
- Wikipedia: Poet Laureate
- Bungalower: Mayor Dyer Launches Search for Orlando’s Next Poet Laureate
- Google Search: Orlando Poet Laureate
- ClickOrlando: Orlando’s Poet Laureate to Host Workshops
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Poetry
- Fox 35 Orlando: Meet Shawn Welcome, Orlando’s Poet Laureate
- Google News: Orlando Poetry Events
Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
