ADAM JACKSON/Ponoka News
The Ponoka Stampede talent show is up and running once again.
Many well-known artists have had their start at the talent show, including Stacey Roper, Gord Bamford, Shane Yellowbird, Adam Gregory and Samantha King.
“Its purpose is to showcase upcoming talent in the area,” said past organizer Don Lewis.
The contest, which started in 1991, consistently had over 50 applicants try out for either 10 or 12 spots over the 10 years that it ran in the past.
The Ponoka Stampede talent show features an opportunity that not many other talent shows offer — playing in front of thousands of people.
When first started, it was a decision by Lewis and his wife.
“We just wanted something more for the Stampede,” said Lewis.
Putting on a full-scale talent show isn’t an easy task for organizers. Many details must be taken care of, including hiring a band, rehearsing and finding space for the auditions.
The stakes are slightly higher for the competitors this year, with a first-place prize of $1,000 cash plus a leather coat, a second place prize of $500 cash and the top 10 finalists will receive two tickets to the “Summer Send Off” concert in September.
Auditions will be held on May 25 and 26 at 7:00 p.m. at the Stagecoach Saloon. The organizers will take a maximum of 50 applicants.
To enter the talent show, call Karen Kjenner at 403-783-3989.