America’s Next Great Star

by Erica Tomaszewski
edited by Phil Enright

greg.org

On Saturday, May 1 at 7:00 p.m. in the fieldhouse Pierce Activities Council (PAC) will be hosting America’s Next Great Star, a new twist on the annual talent show.

The show will have an “American Idol” feel to attract as many students as possible.  There will be five-minute auditions with a panel of judges, lights and cameras, text message voting, and a $500 cash prize for the winner.

Attendees will be able to see the performers audition tapes, bloopers and outtakes, as well as their actual performance at the show.

Derek Scalia, Assistant Director of Student Involvement, said PAC wanted to revamp the talent show after the record low attendance for the show last year.

“We are trying to connect with students as best as possible this year.  We are enhancing the experience through technology and prizes,” said Scalia.

Although members of PAC believe this event will be a hit with the campus, students believe that it will not live up to expectations.  The event time coincides with the non-university endorsed “spring weekend.”

“People have to remember that they are on a college campus, and talent shows are not something students here want.  Also they did not choose a good weekend I think there will be crickets in the crowd,” said sophomore James Connelly.

Despite some critics, PAC hopes for a large crowd.  Admission will be free this year, and will be open to the public in attempts to attract as big of a crowd as possible.

This year students will be able to text their vote for their favorite performer or performing group.  The winner’s audition tape will also be sent to talent agencies in Los Angeles, Nashville, and New York.

Caitlin Smith, Travel Chair for PAC said that students on campus have a great opportunity to display their sometimes hidden talents at this event.

“America’s Next Great Star is an awesome opportunity for students to showcase their talent in a low pressure atmosphere,” said Smith.

If you would like to volunteer for the event or have any other questions please contact Derek Scalia at scaliad@franklinpierce.edu