Vocalists battle through auditions to Star Search final

Geelong’s best young vocalists have showcased their talents in auditions and heats to determine grand finalists for the region’s premier annual talent quest.
Tensions were high and nerves on edge as they endured seemingly eternal waits for their chance to audition for the 2009 Powercor Star Search.
Fourteen talented entrants fought their way into the heats with renditions of well-known ballads, pop and classical song.
Half were selected in the heats to vie for a place to compete on grand final night.
Judge Malcolm John said this year’s standard was “very high”.
Aspiring instrumentalists have a last-minute chance to enter auditions at Geelong’s courthouse theatre on Friday.
Organisers said instrumental entries were still available online at www.starsearch.net.au or by emailing powercorstarsearch@gmail.com.
First prize in each category is $1000, with $500 and $300 for second and third respectively.
Prizes also go to grand finalists, promising performers and overall winners in each category.
Rotary Club of Highton’s Star Search will begin 7.30pm on May 15 at Deakin University’s Costa Hall.
Tickets cost $20 each, $15 for concession-card holders or $55 for a family by phoning 5229 1626 or Geelong Performing Arts Centre on 5225 1200.
The Independent is a Star Search sponsor.