The 15th Annual Japanese Language Contest is scheduled for Saturday, March 30 2012, at the Olathe Northwest High School, 21300 College Blvd, Olathe, KS 66061.

The Heart of America Japan-America Society and the Olathe School District provide this opportunity for friendly competition and networking so that all Japanese students can showcase their Japanese language skills and enjoy meeting other students across the region. Events include: Kana Bee and Kanji Bee (3 levels with HS and College Divisions), Shodo / Calligraphy, Haiku, Poetry Recitation and a Talent Show Contest. The deadline for entries, including mail-in categories, is February 27, 2013.

Additional events being held during the Language Contest:

1. The Haiku and Shodo / Calligraphy Contests are mail-in events. The deadline for these and all other events is Feb 27, 2013.
2. The Haiku Contest will require seasonal words and certain rhythm. Seasonal words will be provided from which to choose to use in the contestant’s Haiku.
3. In the Poetry Recitation Contest, contestants will recite one of the six poems provided. This is an individual contest and contestants are not allowed to compete in a group. Contestants need to understand the contents, appreciate the poem and memorize it.
4. The Talent Show Contest includes any type of performance, using Japanese language, such as singing, skits and poetry performances. Contestants can perform Japanese songs but may not do karaoke. Performances will be evaluated by judges and will also be judged by the audience to determine the most favorite performance award winners.
For more information, contact kcjlangcont@gmail.com