The Millet Legion Branch No. 229 is organizing an event to highlight musical talents in the region.
The legion is encouraging all musicians in the areas of Leduc, Millet, Pigeon Lake, and Wetaskiwin to apply for the talent show whether as a solo singer, musician, or part of a band, according to a press release.
As per the release, cash prizes will be awarded to the top contestants in the youth category (up to age 18), and the adult category (over 18).
Contestants will be judged in areas such as technical skill, musicality, and stage presence.
Two of the judges are also local and chosen for their talent and experience in the music industry.
One of the judges Megan Paige, born and raised just outside Millet, has showcased her passion for music on such stages as the Pigeon Lake Music Festival, Cook County Saloon and The Jubilee Auditorium in Edmonton, and The Bluebird Café in Nashville.
Paige recorded and released her first single Best I Never Had in 2021 and followed up with three more singles.
Her latest single Yesterday’s Rain has been added to Sirius XM. As the world is taking notice of Paige, her music has earned a spot in the top 100 of 2022 on the Canadian Indie Country Countdown.
Most recently, as a featured artist with Global Country Music Star Search based out of Edmonton, Paige was awarded the 2024 Female Entertainer and Vocalist of the Year award at the North American Country Music Association International competition in Nashville.
Guitar virtuoso and instructor William “Bill” Tozer of Water Works Studios in Wetaskiwin, having spent decades as a full-time touring musician, will also lend his ear and talent to the panel of judges.
Tozer continues to support local musicians by offering single and group lessons in guitar and ukulele, providing rehearsal space, and offering live band recording with up to 24 individual instrument and vocal channels, and even Karaoke-style recording. Tozer currently performs locally with the Eclectics.
Interested contestants may apply to Candace Berube (780-216-9690) or Melanie Cheek (780-604-3711). The deadline to apply for the show is May 8.
Tickets to be in the audience are available through Berube and Cheek, as well as at the Millet Legion, Millet town office, and the Millet Museum.
Tickets are $25 for adults, $10 for children aged five to 12, and children under four are free.