‘Quest’ entry forms now out

Whether they’ve competed before or will be new to the stage, area singers no doubt will be excited to know entry forms for the Fort Frances Chamber of Commerce’s annual “Quest for the Best” are now available.
“They’re ready to go,” said Chamber co-ordinator Dawn Booth, who has been involved in organizing seven of these popular events.
“I’ve already gotten a couple phone calls and people have been dropping in asking, ‘When are the entry forms coming out?’” she added. “Interest seems to be out there.”^Once again, “Quest” will take place during the Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship—on Wednesday, July 23 to be exact— under the big tent at the Sorting Gap Marina.
And once again, up to 20 acts— whether solos or duets—can sign up for the singing contest.
Contestants must be at least 14 years old.
The cost to enter is $25 per solo and $35 for a duet.
Entry forms can picked up at the Chamber office (474 Scott St.), B93-FM, Rainy Lake Hotel, or the Memorial Sports Centre,.
They then must be dropped off at the Chamber office with the entry fee.
Contestants will compete for first-place ($500), second-place ($300), and third-place ($200) purses, as well as cash prizes for two People’s Choice, Contestants’ Choice, Most Original, and Audience Response awards.
Last year’s winners were Marc Desforges (first place), Courtney Jourdain (second place, People’s Choice, and Contestant’s Choice), Sarah Hebert (third place), Jamie Lockman (Most Original), and Alyson Booth (Audience Response and People’s Choice).
Despite being involved in so many “Quests,” Booth said it’s one of her favourite events of the year.
“I think it’s great. It’s amazing what talent we have around here.
And it’s sold out for the past couple years,” she remarked, recalling last year’s crowd of more than 1,200.
Meanwhile, Booth said most of the event sponsors already are in place.
“We still need sponsors for firstplace and third-place prizes,” she noted. “Plus, there’s the general sponsors for $100, for which you’ll get recognition.”^All sponsors get free tickets, reserved seating at the show, and can present an award if they so choose.
As for those who just want to check out the singing talent, and enjoy a rockin’ night out, you’ll have to have to wait a while because tickets won’t go on sale until late June.
Booth noted the cost likely will be the same as last year—$12 in advance and $15 at the door.
But different from previous years at the bass tourney, “Quest” will be followed by more entertainment— in this case, an adult hypnotist—so those who buy a ticket for “Quest” can stay for the second show.
For more information, or to be a sponsor, call Booth at 274-5773.