Poetry and song return to the stage tonight at the Ruth Seaton James Centre for the Performing Arts, when student artists present the neo soul café Loud Souls 2.

Patricia Nesbitt, a drama teacher at CedarBridge Academy, said that a production a year ago drew “overwhelmingly positive” comments from the audience, inspiring students to create their own theatre group.

The Noire Youth Theatre Company, taking its name from the Black Box Theatre, has since staged talent shows and historical drama on Mary Prince and Sally Bassett, as well as performances for Black History Month in February. The group recently received charity status.

Ms Nesbitt added: “This is just a taste of what the students do.”

Tonight and tomorrow, from 6pm to 8pm, audiences can enjoy food and beverages while taking in entertainment from 30 poets and vocalists.

Tickets are $30 general admission and $50 for patrons.