Historical Society Searching For New Way To Honor Poe

BALTIMORE (AP) -- The Maryland Historical Society is putting a new twist on an old tradition by holding a contest inviting Edgar Allan Poe enthusiasts to submit proposals for a three-minute performance to honor the author on his birthday.

The contest was inspired by the "Poe Toaster," a mysterious visitor who paid homage to Poe on his birthday for decades by leaving three roses and a bottle of cognac on his grave. The "Toaster" hasn't been seen since 2009, and so the historical society, along with Poe Baltimore and Westminster Burying Grounds, is hoping to revive the tradition.

Submissions are due Oct. 23, and finalists will compete in front of a panel of judges on Nov. 7, 10 and 12.

This event is FREE to attend; register here.

Details below on how to submit below:

Submission Rules:

Contestants should submit a 75-100 word description of his or her proposed performance, plus any supporting materials such as videos, storyboards, drawings, etc. Singular performances, rather than group acts, are encouraged.

Submissions are due no later than October 23, 2015. Participants must be 18 years or older.

Applications should be submitted to media@mdhs.org.
Be sure to include:
1. A performance description,
2. A phone number and email address, and
3. Either your name or an alias. This competition wishes to follow the tradition of anonymity exhibited by the original "Poe Toaster" and encourages the use of an alias.
For complete rules visit www.mdhs.org/poetoaster.

Finalists:
On October 31, the finalists will be announced at Poe Baltimore's Black Cat Ball at Mobtown Ballroom, the annual Halloween Tour at Westminster Burying Ground and posted to the Maryland Historical Society's website and Facebook page. The 10-12 finalists will perform in front of a panel of 3 judges and a live audience at the Maryland Historical Society on November 7.

Bonus Opportunities
On the night of the competition, audience members will have the opportunity to enter a raffle to win 1 of 4 additional spots on stage to perform in front of the live audience and celebrity judges, and potentially be named Baltimore's Next "Poe Toaster".

All audience members will be given a ballot to vote for their favorite "Poe Toaster," and the winner of the competition will be announced that evening.

How To Attend the November 7 Competition at The Maryland Historical Society:
Doors will open at 8:30 PM, and performers will take the stage at 9:30 PM. There will be FREE admission to watch the competition, plus a cash bar/all you can drink wristband for $20. Register/Get Drink Tickets now by clicking here.

The Winner
Baltimore's Next "Poe Toaster" will be expected to perform for Poe's birthday in January 2016, and will be heralded throughout the city in 2016.
(Copyright 2015 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)