Spoken Word Artists, Musicians Unite For Anti-Bullying Event

What began in January as a fundraiser showcase for local artists at Tampa Pitcher Show has evolved into an all-ages community event beyond producer Deborah Kelley’s wildest expectations.

The event Life Amplified 1.0 StopH8 first launched in January. The second Life Amplified show titled "Life Amplified 2.0 StopH8" will take place Saturday, May 18 at the Tampa Pitcher Show.

"After the inaugural Life Amplified ended, as I thanked everyone and was leaving the stage, I was asked by a participant if I was doing another. At the time, I thought this was a one-time thing," said Kelley, who lives in the Westchase area. "I went to the microphone and asked by a show of applause, if I produced another show, would you attend? The room got really noisy."

The response prompted Kelley to begin planning another Life Amplified event at the Tampa Pitcher Show, 14416 N. Dale Mabry Highway. January's Life Amplified show was dedicated to bringing awareness to illicit human trafficking. Saturday's event will be dedicated to anti-bullying.

Kelley chose the topic because it had personal significance.

"As someone who experienced it firsthand, bully prevention has been a topic close to my heart," she said. "Today's bullies have the freedom of faceless technology to write awful things without repercussion. It's not cool to pick on someone because they are different from you."

More than 20 spoken word poets, dancers, comedians, musicians will perform Saturday, including R&B pop artist Mikel Soulhop. Soulhop will headline the event.

"I've worked with Deb on other projects and when she asked if I would participate in her second show, I said yes," Soulhop said. "I am really excited to be part of such a worthy event."

Kellie Lightbourn of ABC Action News will emcee the event.

"Kellie is an amazing and super busy lady," Kelley said. "I am incredibly excited that she is able to host this May’s event."

The charity Teen Edge's Be-YOU-ty Camp will benefit from Saturday's fundraising efforts. The organization launched a summer camp that pairs girls from the community with patients at the Shriner's Hospital.

The girls enjoyed a week-long camp learning about positive self-image, self-esteem, bully-prevention among other topics from strong female role models.

Life Amplified runs Saturday night 1 to 5 p.m. at the Tampa Pitcher Show. Doors open at 12:30 p.m. Tickets are $8 at the box office after 5 p.m. during the week, online or at the door.

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