News Release

CHARLES CITY – Who will be Iowa’s next Maddie Poppe?

Young talent from around the region will be showcased in Charles City on Sunday, July 1, with cash prizes and a chance to qualify for the state fair on the line.

The annual Bill Riley Talent Show has become a part of the Fourth of July holiday tradition in Charles City and is open to ages 2 to 21 to perform and display their talents in the areas of vocal music, instrumental music or dance. There are two age categories, the Sprout Division (ages 2-12) and the Senior Division (ages 13-21). Acts are confined to no more than 3 minutes, with a 1 minute set-up time prior, and can have no more than five performers per act. No more than three accompanists per act are allowed.

Cash prizes will be awarded to the top three place finishers in each age division, with the first place winners automatically qualifying for the Bill Riley Talent Show at the Iowa State Fair. If the first place winner has already qualified for the 2018 State Fair at a previous show, then the next highest place winner who has not qualified yet will receive the automatic state berth.

Participation in, and attendance at the Charles City show is absolutely free. It will take place in the air-conditioned Charles Theatre at 409 North Main St., beginning at 1 p.m. Doors will open for performers at 11:30 a.m. and refreshments will be available for purchase at the theater concession stand. Performers are asked to pre-register if at all possible, but walk-ins will be accepted until 12:30 p.m. the day of the show.

This event is being hosted by the Charles City Area Chamber of Commerce. For more information or to register, please stop in at 401 North Main St., call (641) 228-4234 or email mark@charlescitychamber.com.