Get ready to listen to some of the most talented youth performers the Sea to Sky has to offer at the 18th Squamish Star Search on Friday (May 13) at the Eagle Eye Theatre.
Presented by the Howe Sound Performing Arts Association (HSPAA), the Star Search youth talent contest is in its 18th year - but just not in a row.
"We didn't have one last year," said Kristine Miles, Star Search producer. "With so many musical and theatrical events now happening in Squamish, we didn't want to conflict with other events. So, Star Search may only happen every two years."
To make up for skipping a year, Miles said the 2011 Star Search performers were well worth the wait.
"I think we have a really exceptional program this year," she said. "We have 20 very talented young performers from Lions Bay, Whistler, Pemberton and Squamish."
More than 30 youth performers aged from nine to 19 auditioned to take part in the talent competition. However, for some, the contest ended there.
"After seven years of doing this, I have a good sense of the length of each number and the available time," said Miles. "You can't fit 30 performers into the show. Some that didn't make it needed more practice or preparation. They'll be back next time."
Along with giving local youth the opportunity to showcase their talents in front of an audience, Star Search also raises money for the Access Music Education (AIM) fund, which awards bursaries to local youth to pursue music education.
"This is the sixth year we are giving out AIM bursaries," she said. "To date, we've given in the ballpark of $16,000 to local kids."
The bursaries are meant to encourage and promote young performers who might not otherwise have the opportunity to shine.
"AIM bursaries are for school-age kids who take private music lessons or want to attend music camps - and their parents need a bit of assistance," Miles said. "And it's not just for piano lessons, either. We get a broad mix of kids with diverse musical talents who apply for grants."
More kids are applying for grants too, she said.
"The need has grown every year," she said. "Every year there are more applications because it can be a costly endeavour to support a child through their performing education."
The three guest judges pick winners and runners-up from the 20 contestants in the kids (nine to 13) or youth (14 to 18) categories.
In addition to the contest, a couple of former Star Search participants who have continued their musical studies will perform.
Miles said tickets for the entertaining fundraiser usually sell out fast.
"We usually have a full house," she said. "I always tell people to get their tickets early."
The HSPAA's Star Search 2011 takes place on Friday, May 13 at 7 p.m. (doors at 6:30 p.m.) at the Eagle Eye Theatre.
Tickets are $10 in advance at Billie's Bouquet or $12 at the door on the night of the show.
For more information go to www.howesoundarts.ca.
