The competition, sponsored by The Post-Journal, Kiss FM 106.9, Blue Moon Management, The Fish and J Edwards Insurance, drew a diverse range of performers for a recent audition.

The auditions were attended by a panel of judges, including industry professionals and local celebrities, who had the challenging task of selecting the contestants who would make it into the contest. Those chosen to compete are:

¯ Annabelle and Adalyn Martin – vocalists

¯ Johnnie Siggins – vocalist/horn player

Mike Johnson, a tribute artist and costume designer, is pictured during his audition for Chautauqua’s Got Talent 2023. The competition begins April 24.

¯ Marcus Leeper – electric guitar/singer-songwriter

¯ Aly Dalton – vocalist, musical theater

¯ Cathy Ruch – vocalist

¯ Isaac Sinatra – vocalist, musical theater

¯ Angel Busch – vocalist, ukulele, singer-songwriter

Comedian Mike Shanks is pictured during his audition for Chautauqua’s Got Talent 2023. The competition begins April 24.

¯ Elijah Manuel – Poet, rapper

¯ Jackie Bielata – vocalist, instrumentalist, singer-songwriter

¯ Mike Shanks – Comedian

¯ Brett Turnquist – vocalist, guitar, singer-songwriter

¯ Mike Johnson – tribute artist, costume design

¯ Derek Davis – vocalist, instrumentalist, singer-songwriter

¯ Jolee Schultz – vocalist, musical theater

¯ Dewayne Moore – vocalist

¯ Larsen Family Band – family band

¯ Gracelyn Kohler – vocalist

¯ Miranda Wilcox, singer/songwriter, multi-instrumentalist

¯ Cheryl Kozma – dancer, baton twirling

“We were blown away by the level of talent displayed during the auditions,” said Ylsa Maj, one of the judges. “It was truly a tough decision to select the contestants, as everyone brought their A-game. We are thrilled to see what these contestants have in store for the upcoming shows.”

The contest will kick off on Monday, April 24, at 7 p.m. and will run for five consecutive Mondays at The Spire. Each week, the contestants will showcase their talents in front of a live audience and the judging panel, with the ultimate winner taking home the grand prize of $1,000, a $100 gift certificate to The Fish, and the opportunity to be the Preshow Spotlight Performer for the Donna The Buffalo Concert at The Spire on Nov. 4. The contest provides the unique opportunity for the audience to choose the winner by electronic vote.

“We are incredibly grateful to our sponsors for their generous support, as well as to all the talented individuals who auditioned for Chautauqua’s Got Talent 2023,” said Angelo Valentino, an event coordinator. “The competition promises to be an electrifying showcase of local talent, and we can’t wait to see who will come out on top!”

Pre-sale tickets for Chautauqua’s Got Talent are available at InSpirejamestown.com. Tickets will also be available on the day of the show at the Spire Theater box office. These are family-friendly events, and all ages are welcome to attend.