Terrance VesSouL performs during last season’s “Lyric Live” competition.

PHOTO COURTESY OF AFREEMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

Staff Report

MIAMI – In the words of comedian and host Chello, “Ladies and Gentleman, boys and girls, children of all ages, start clapping right now!” “Lyric Live” returns April 7 for its fourth season at the Black Archives Historic Lyric Theater (BAHLT), 819 NE 2 Avenue in Miami.

Doors open at 6 p.m. with a mix and mingle happy hour, DJ, live music and concessions – immediately followed by the amateur talent showcase at 8 p.m. Tickets are available at lyriclive.eventbrite.com.

Over the last few years, “Lyric Live” has been dubbed Miami’s best amateur night showcase. It is a fun-filled experience with plenty of laughs and lots of good cheer.

The showcase is one of the signature programs presented by the Black Archives as a part of its mission to work with community partners to revitalize Overtown through the arts, preserve culture and empower neighbors through employment opportunities.

Showcase contestants share their unique talents and the winner is awarded a grand prize of $500.

Terrance VesSouL – a singer, poet and community activist – won the “Lyric Live All Stars” competition (the follow-up to amateur night) last season with Common and John Legend’s acclaimed song, “Glory,” and Walter Hawkins’ tune “Be Grateful.”

VesSouL said it was his second time entering the competition and he used the platform to shine light on current events.

“Last year I didn’t win, but I just felt like I needed to come back again, especially when I saw what was going on in our community,” VesSouL said. “The songs I chose were about justice and pretty reflective of the times.”

As the winner, VesSouL received a $1,000 branding opportunity with HipRockStar and a photo promotions packet, which he said he will use to build out his artist portfolio.

He advised local artists to take advantage of the “Lyric Live” contest.

“The experience was real. Hearing the feedback of judges that are in the industry helped me assess what I could do better as a performer and entertainer,” VesSouL said. “I would strongly recommend any local artist, whether you’re up and coming or already established, to have that experience.”

VesSouL also said standing on the Lyric’s stage is special because of the venue’s history.

“The caliber of black performers who performed at the theater in the 40s and 50s … you’re standing on the shoulders of giants,” VesSouL said.