Photo courtesy of Lyndsey Maynard PhotographyPRESQUE ISLE — The United Way of Aroostook is looking for its next Northern Star and invites individuals, groups and families to perform.
Traditionally, this midwinter talent contest has been a singing-only show, but this year the UWA is changing things up a bit by accepting all family-friendly talent for its three regional competitions.
“We are hoping to see a wide variety of entertainment this year, from singers and dancers to magicians and comedians,” says Sherry Locke, executive director of the United Way of Aroostook. “We are really looking for talent of all kinds to provide the best entertainment for our audiences.”
This is Northern Star’s 13th year. Each year there have been changes to improve the show, which is one of the UWA’s largest fundraisers. The talent show was originally titled “Aroostook Idol” but then changed to “Northern Star” so it could include contestants from not only Aroostook County, but also Madawaska, Carleton and Victoria counties in New Brunswick.
Last year, the vocal-only show adopted “United Way Saves,” which allowed a special committee to “save” up to three contestants to participate in the finale who had not been chosen at their regional competitions.
Along with accepting more than just singing talent, this year’s shows will introduce a new way for contestants to guarantee a spot in the finale. Contestants are encouraged to collect sponsorships prior to their regional competition, and the contestant with the highest dollar amount of sponsorships will be guaranteed a spot at the finale.
There will be two other finalists chosen from each regional show. One will be selected by the audience and the other by a panel of judges. The three “United Way Saves,” made after the three regional shows are completed, will make the finale a show with 15 talented contestants.
Regional shows will take place Friday, March 3, at 7 p.m. at Fox Auditorium in Fort Kent; Saturday, March 4, at 7 p.m. at the Presque Isle Middle School auditorium; and Sunday, March 5, at 2 p.m. at the Community Arts Center in Houlton. The finale will be held on Sunday, March 19, at 2 p.m. at the Caribou Performing Arts Center.
Prospective performers should contact the United Way office at (207) 764-5197 or visit www.unitedwayaroostook.org for more information or an application.
