A spoken-word poetry performance titled “Dimmed Lanterns Looking for Light” promises to entertain audiences in a way Paducah hasn’t seen. The collaborative effort among local poets and musicians will highlight social issues and inspire viewers to develop their own artistic voices.

“This hasn’t happened in Paducah in this kind of way,” said Greggory Taylor, one of three poets who will present his work tonight. “We’ve never had a complete poetry show here, and we’re trying to bring it to people who may not have seen a show like this.”

The collaborative performance from Taylor, Samuel “Snacks” Hawkins and Christopher Williams will be divided into two segments.

“It’s serious subject matter, heavy, in the beginning,” said Hawkins, who coordinated the event and will also perform original work.

The issues the poets will address range from homelessness to violence against women, said Hawkins, who studied art and sociology at Bethel University in McKenzie, Tenn. But the poets assure audiences that the social issues won’t cancel out the fun.

“The second half (of the show) is going to be more of a light load. You might laugh, or catch some kind of nostalgic nuance you forgot about,” Hawkins said. “The approach we’re taking is something you learn in Theater 101: Always leave them with a smile.”

The poets hope that, by the end of the show, audiences will feel encouraged to pursue their passions, particularly those that have to do with the arts. “The major issue we’re attacking is trying to get people to create and be more expressive,” Taylor said.

The poets admitted that their show will be a bit of an experiment, but said they intend to continue offering performances in the future. Audiences of all ages are invited.

“You’ll cry, you’ll laugh, you’ll learn,” Hawkins said. “It needs to be experienced.”

Call Laurel Black, a Paducah Sun staff writer, at 270-575-8641.