2026 National Chinese
Poetry Recitation Contest
Sponsored by: ASC Culture Blocks
A community partnership funded by Mecklenburg County
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Do you remember the applause and excitement from last summer? In 2025, the first Charlotte Cup Chinese Recitation Contest concluded with resounding success — 152 talented participants captivated audiences and judges alike.
Now, we’re back with new energy and greater goals! We are thrilled to announce that the 2026 National Chinese Poetry Recitation Contest is officially open for registration! Children and teens ages 3–18 from across the U.S. are invited to celebrate the beauty of Chinese language and culture through spoken word.
Program Highlights
1. Exclusive Pre-Contest Workshops: Chinese Recitation Coaching for Kids
This year, we are excited to introduce four free recitation coaching sessions to help participants build confidence and polish their performance skills.
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Dates: March 7, 14, 21, 28, 2026 (Saturdays)
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Time: 2:00–4:00 PM
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Location: Pineville Library – Community Room A
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Instructor: Ms. Ning Chen, an experienced stage performer and speech coach
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Registration will open two weeks prior to the first workshop.
Participants will receive professional guidance on articulation, expression, and stage presence in a supportive group setting.
Important:
Please use a computer or laptop to view and complete workshop registration. If accessed on a mobile device, the workshop registration link may not appear.
2. Contest Structure
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Open to children and teens ages 3–18
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Divided into Nativa and Non-Native categories
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Individual registration only — each voice deserves the spotlight!
3. Poetry Selection Guidelines
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All recitation pieces must be positive, healthy, and age-appropriate.
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Poems should reflect uplifting themes such as culture, kindness, perseverance, nature, or personal growth.
4. Grand Finals on a Professional Stage
Finalists will perform at the Matthews Fullwood Theater with full stage lighting and sound, giving every contestant a true spotlight experience. This is more than a contest — it’s a moment of growth and pride.
5. Contest Timeline
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Preliminary Round (Video Submission): Now – March 31, 2026
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Finalists Announced: April 10, 2026
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In-Person Finals & Awards Ceremony: May 10, 2026
6. Video Submission Requirements (Preliminary Round)
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Videos must be recorded in landscape (horizontal) orientation.
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Duration must be between 30 seconds and 2 minutes.
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Videos shorter than 30 seconds or longer than 2 minutes will receive point deductions.
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These time requirements are strictly enforced as part of the scoring criteria.
7. Awards & Recognition
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Each category will award First, Second, Third Prizes and Honorable Mentions
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Winners will receive trophies, certificates, and commemorative gifts
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All participants will receive an official certificate of participation
New in 2026: Best Organization Award
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This award may be presented to a school or a teacher.
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Selection will be based on preliminary round participation, including the number of registered students and overall engagement.
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The award recognizes outstanding support for Chinese language learning and student participation.
8. Who Can Join?
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Open to all U.S.-based children and teens aged 3–18
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No prior experience required — just passion for the Chinese language!
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Registration and Submission Link is in the below.
6. Contact
Organizer: Charlotte Chinese Story Time
Let your voice shine on stage.
Whether you're a first-time performer or an experienced speaker, this is your moment to speak up, share culture, and shine with pride.
Join us for the 2026 National Chinese Poetry Recitation Contest — where words build bridges, and every child’s voice matters.
