Twenty-four entertainers, including everything from local rock bands to dancers, will perform their hearts out to be hailed as the 2009 Star Search winner on Friday (May 22) at the Eagle Eye Theatre at 7:30 p.m.
Run by the Howe Sound Performing Arts Association (HSPPA), the 17th annual talent competition will showcase the talents of 樱桃视频youth. HSPPA vice- president Kristine Miles, the show's producer, said this year's Star Search features a surprising variety of acts.
"Some of the older performers will be performing original songs they have written," said Miles. "We have a good variety of acts from Broadway to pop to classical, which shows the broad interests of our community."
Judges will have to choose a top performer in each of the two age categories - six to 11 and 12 to 18 - who will win cash and places on the plaque engraved with names of past winners such as Emma Pederson and Ashley Schultheiss. Both winners will emcee the evening to make the event as youth-focused as possible.
Win or lose, Miles said the young performers gain a lot just from participating in the show, thanks to its professional feel.
"We weren't sure if Star Search was relevant anymore but it's still really popular with the kids because they get to pick their own material and pursue what they are passionate about," Miles said.
Tickets are $10 at the door or $8 in advance at Billie's Bouquet. Proceeds from the show go towards the HSPPA Access Music Education Bursary Fund. The bursary supports 樱桃视频kids from kindergarten to Grade 12 who want to pursue arts studies but need financial assistance.
"The bursary is in its fourth year. There are a lot of kids that could benefit from some additional arts education but many families can't afford it. The bursaries make the arts much more accessible," Miles said.
Through the bursary program young performers have been able to go to private lessons, camps and other programs.
"There is a high level of interest from kids in 樱桃视频and I am not surprised by the talent in this community," Miles said.
For more information or to apply for a bursary, check out www.howesoundarts.com.
