Duane Hicks
Local singers wanting to participate in next month’s “Quest for the Best” had better act fact as only the first 20 who complete the entry form and pay the entry fee will be guaranteed a spot.
Jennifer Soderholm, executive director of the Fort Frances Chamber of Commerce, said even prior to registration opening on Friday, contestants already had been inquiring about competing in the perennially-popular contest, which is set for Friday, July 20 under the big tent at the Sorting Gap Marina in conjunction with the Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship.
“There is an interest out there so if people want to participate, they need to get it done as soon as possible to ensure themselves a spot,” she stressed.
Online entry form and rules are available on the “Community Events” front page of the Chamber’s website at www.fortfranceschamber.com/events
Forms can be filled out and submitted electronically.
If you need help, or don’t have access to a computer, drop by the Chamber office, which is located on the lower level of 240 First St. E. (old high school).
After registering, entrants must pay their entry fee in person to be assured their spot.
The entry fee is $30 for solo performers and $45 for duets, with the deadline for entries being 5 p.m. on Friday, July 6.
“But I’ve got a feeling that we’ll have those spots filled well before then,” Soderholm said.
“Quest” is open to anyone age 13 and older. People can sign up as a solo act or duet.
As in past years, singers will be provided with a backup band, “The Faculty.”
Performers will be split up into two sets during which they’ll sing their songs, which often are covers of popular tunes.
The top act from each set then will face off in a “Battle Song,” with that winner emerging with the grand prize.
This year’s “Battle Song” will be Bon Jovi’s classic crowd-pleaser, “Livin’ on a Prayer.”
Other prizes are awarded for People’s Choice, Band’s Choice, top rookie, and more.
Meanwhile, tickets to attend “Quest” will go on sale at the beginning of July.
They will cost $15 each, and be available at the Chamber office, From the Grind Up, and Northwoods Gallery & Gifts.
VIP tickets, which cost $20 each, are available at the Chamber office only.
These are tickets for assigned seating at tables of 10–complete with an unobstructed view of the stage, snacks, and a table top to put your drink on while you enjoy the show.
The VIP tickets are expected to be bought up quickly, Soderholm noted.
Doors open at 7 p.m., with the first act taking the stage at 7:30.
Any questions? Call the Chamber at 274-5773.
