Award-winning beatboxer SungBeats will bring his talents to the West Plains Civic Center theater for a 7 p.m. performance March 23.

Tickets are $10 per person. Current Missouri State-West Plains students can attend free with their BearPass ID.

To purchase tickets, contact the civic center at 417-256-8087 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays, or visit wp.missouristate.edu/theater and click on the “SungBeats” link under “Upcoming Events.”

The performance is being sponsored by the Missouri State University-West Plains University/Community Programs (U/CP) Department.

U/CP officials remind that masks will be required and social distancing protocols will be followed during the performance.

Developing his craft

Based in New York, SungBeats has been developing his beatbox and live looping skills for more than 13 years. Equipped with nothing but a microphone and loop pedal, he uses his mouth only to create organic, engaging, high-energy music.

Show organizers explained that SungBeats creates the songs through an intricate process of sampling vocal sounds live in real time. From hip hop to reggae to electronic dance music, Sung does it all, literally, with his voice, they added.

Best known for winning the 2014 grand finale of “Amateur Night at the Apollo” at the historic Apollo Theater in Harlem, SungBeats also placed first in “Kollaboration Star 214,” the nation’s premiere Asian American talent competition.

Sung has competed in beatbox competitions at the highest levels, both nationally and abroad, and has represented the U.S. at the 2015 Grand Beatbox Battle in Switzerland.

“We love every opportunity we get to bring a unique performance to our town and campus,” said U/CP Director Brenda Polyard. “SungBeats is original and so talented. All guests who attend will be awestruck at SungBeat’s ability and talent. It will be a great night for music and enjoyment!”

For more information about SungBeats’ performance, call the U/CP office at 417-255-7966 or visit wp.missouristate.edu/theater.