Singing, dancing, juggling and ventriloquism are just a few talents that the AMC Road Show is looking for in the quest for Athens’ — and perhaps America’s — most talented person.
The talent-reaping television show is in town Jan. 29-Feb. 1 and is on the lookout for people with unique abilities. Open auditions for those interested are held from 4 to 8 p.m. at the ARTS/West Theatre, 132 W. State St.
Jason Armstrong, an Athens resident, attended the auditions Tuesday night, hoping his talent would grasp the judge’s interests.
“I’m performing my own poetry,” Armstrong said. “I expect it to be a fun opportunity and fun experience.”
Armstrong became aware of the opportunity through a friend who was a waiter for the producers of the show during their visit this past summer.
Sharing the positive outlook on the event is ARTS/West event coordinator Janice Evans, who said she noticed a great amount of talent and support among contestants when the show was in Athens in October.
“Yeah, I think it’s great, there are so many talented people in Athens, and I think it’s great they get some recognition and to help get Athens on the map,” Evans said. “When they were here before, many artists were being supportive of each other and egging each other on and it was beautiful.”
Jesse Pyle, fellow event coordinator for ARTS/West, is similarly excited to host the show. Pyle said he hopes that the event will help residents to draw upon and embrace the art culture that thrives in Athens.
“My expectation is that it helps illuminate people about the community Athens has and the strong arts community,” Pyle said. “I’m tremendously excited to have this opportunity and I’m glad that Andrew Chiki and I were able to work together. And I hope what we can do is help strengthen the brand of ARTS/West and get the community to know we’re here and we’re strong.”
The road show will have callbacks throughout the week, ending with a performance Friday. Selected contestants will travel throughout the country competing against other regional finalists. The overall winner will receive $10,000. Any talent is accepted, but each contestant must be more than 18 years of age.
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