THE THIRD ANNUAL SHOWDOWN AT THE SOUNDSHELL IS SET TO RETURN TO THE GARGARRO BOTANIC GARDENS ON NOVEMBER 15.
The showdown is building on the success of previous years’ events that have attracted young talent from across Victoria.
“We are hoping to have 20 young people with various talents, performance talents, come up on stage and do their thing, whatever music genre they like,” Showdown at the Soundshell Committee member Lisa Smith said.
“The feedback we have had from the parents of the kids participating is that it is just absolutely sensational, because there is not a lot of opportunity for kids who are not into sport to actually get involved in something like this in the area.
“We have had people from all over the state involved — singers, piano players, saxophonists, guitarists — all come and put their best foot forward.”
The competition, open to performers aged 12 to 18, will follow the successful format of previous years.
Three judges will evaluate contestants based on confidence, ability, and audience engagement, with the top three finalists performing an additional song.
Last year’s event saw Shepparton duo Kaitlyn Martin, 15, and Aditi Xavier, 17, claim victory with renditions of Alicia Keys’ If I Ain't Got You and Coldplay’s Fix You.
Bendigo busker Emma Gleeson secured second place, while 12-year-old Indigenous artist Joey Possum-Fox took third with his didgeridoo performance.
The winner will receive $1000, with cash prizes also available for second and third place.
Food and drinks will be available on site during the event.
Participants under-16 years of age require parental consent for all applications.
Applications can be submitted through the Showdown at the Soundshell Facebook page or at girgarre.com.au