The Lloydminster Youth Council hosted its fourth annual Border City Idol talent show, drawing a full crowd and plenty of applause.
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All 150 available tickets were claimed. Youth performers sang their hearts out for the chance to win prizes and show their skills.
“We hope our attendees leave having spent an evening having fun and enjoying themselves,” said youth council member and event co-ordinator Rhianna McCaffrey.
McCaffrey said the show helps highlight local talent.
“What we hope our attendees take away from the evening is an understanding of how many talented youth we have here in Lloydminster.”
Judges scored performers on five areas: vocal technique, musicality, stage presence, artistry and expression and overall performance.
Each category was worth 10 points, for a total of 50.
Aaron Sikora, a judge and longtime Holy Rosary High School teacher, said he looked for honest and emotional performances.
“I’m looking for a student to give some emotion, show some of themselves,” said Sikora. “You wanna be your own person.”
He also shared advice for young singers.
“Make a personal connection, be yourself, and make it musical,” said Sikora.
Performer Cece Kroeker sang You’re So Vain by Carly Simon.
“I think it’s just nice to get a chance to show your talents,” said Kroeker. “It’s just a really cool chance.”
However, she credits her singing teacher and a friend for encouraging her to join.
“It’s just a opportunity to get out there, grow and learn more.”
She also had a message for the audience.
“I hope that maybe I’m encouraging some other people to go up there next year, too.”
There were cash prizes for the top three winners, $250, $150 and $100. One performer also won a $150 Lloyd Mall gift card in the audience-voted People’s Choice category.
McCaffrey said the event helps young people grow.
“Our main goal is that our performers have an evening of fun,” she said. “Our secondary goal is for our performers to walk away with a greater sense of self-confidence.”
She also thanked the community for their support of Border City Idol.
“We would like to extend a huge thank you to the community for all their support,” she said. “Without sponsorships from local businesses, we would not be able to host any of our youth council events.”
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