The opening round featured everything from golden oldies to modern pop, hip hop to heavy metal, country music to Christian music, and performances ranging from Disney princess favorites to original singer-songwriters. The variety on display set the tone for what is shaping up to be a memorable season.

“Opening night is always one of my favorite parts of the season,” said producer Angelo Valentino. “You see people step up, take a chance, and put themselves out there. Some come in confident, some are figuring it out as they go, but by the end of the night, you can already see the growth starting. That’s what this is all about.”

Following the first night of competition, 25 contenders have advanced to Night 2. Here are the contestants: April Hulett, Bobby Michael, Braelee Zuck, Braydon King, Daughters of Thunder, Eden McNitt, Emeleerose Mason, Emily Tiebor, Gypsy The Disciple, Hayden and Autumn Rain, Howard McAvoy, Jared Pierce, Justin Wheeler, Kam ‘n’ Zac, Kristen McNitt, Lenore Storms, Liv Clement, Lux Nova, Marcus Leeper, Meghan Kelsey, Nathan Fiscus, Rachael, Sandy Hopkins, Shelby Peterson, and Victoria Estelle Elia.

“What really stood out was how much heart everyone brought to those first 60 seconds,” said Ylsa Maj, producer and judge. “That’s not a lot of time, but they made it count. It made for some very tough decisions, and that’s a great problem to have this early in the competition.”

From left, Jeremy Bunce accompanies Eden McNitt during the first night of Chautauqua’s Got Talent at The Spire Theater, 317 E. Third St. Submitted photo

At stake is a $1,000 grand prize, along with the opportunity for contestants to grow through live performance experience and mentoring from local and regional entertainment professionals.

As the season moves forward, audiences can expect the performances to grow stronger each week as contestants continue to develop and compete for a spot in the finale.

The competition continues on April 13, with additional rounds on April 20, semi-finals on April 27, and the finale on May 4, all at 7 p.m. at The Spire Theater, 317 E. Third St.

Tickets are available at inspirejamestown.com or at the door.