Local high school students can compete for a $4,000 scholarship in the second annual “Dugan’s Got Talent” competition, where participants can showcase talents such as singing, dancing, comedy, art, magic, and more. The 10 finalists will compete in a live show on April 12 at Dugan Best Recreation Center.
The event is hosted by the Owensboro Parks and Recreation. It is open to high school students ages 14-18 who reside in Owensboro-Daviess County.
Video auditions will accepted February 5-16. To enter, each contestant must submit a 30-second maximum video of their best talent. No more than six people can be in a single act, and each individual can only submit and participate in one act.
Live auditions will also be held at Dugan Best Recreation Center on February 1 from 4-6:30 p.m. and February 3 from 10 a.m.–12 p.m. Contestants will have their act recorded and entered into the talent contest.
Internal judges will review all auditions to determine who goes up for a public vote. The public will vote for the top 10 finalists, who will perform at the Dugan Best Recreation Center on April 12 in front of a live audience. A panel of local celebrity judges will determine the grand winner. Tickets for the event will go on sale in March.
The first-place winner will receive a one-time $4,000 scholarship. The second-place winner will receive a one-time $500 scholarship, while third- and fourth-place winners will each receive a one-time $250 scholarship.
Last year, Daviess County High School’s Jo Jarboe, a silk aerialist, won the contest. Second place was awarded to dancer Abby Burns, an Owensboro Catholic High School student. Vocalists Abigail Oakes (Glory and Grace Academy) and Ava Schimp (Apollo High School) took third and fourth, respectively.
The competition is sponsored by Independence Bank and the City of Owensboro.
“Independence Bank is proud to partner with Owensboro Parks and Recreation again for this year’s contest,” said Susan Story, Community Enrichment Officer for Independence Bank. “This event aligns with the mission of Independence Bank by positively promoting the youth in our community. I was blown away by the talent we saw in last year’s competition, and I look forward to seeing what acts will perform this year.”
For more information on eligibility and rules, visit OwensboroParks.org or contact Mike Gray at 270-687-8714 or [email protected].
