Auditions set for variety show competition at the Palace

Kelsey Walling/Tribune-Herald Palace Theater Executive Director Phillips Payson stands in the lobby of the theater on Monday, March 27, 2023. The Palace is hosting open auditions for people eager to showcase their skills on stage as part of a family-friendly variety show competition, “A Night of Island Stars.”
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Artists and performers of all ages are being called to the Palace Theater in downtown Hilo for a chance to compete in a variety show.

The Palace Theater is hosting open auditions for people eager to showcase their skills on stage as part of a family-friendly variety show competition, “A Night of Island Stars.”

Ten to 12 acts will compete in the Palace’s first variety competition on Saturday, May 13, for a cash prize of $1,000. Three mystery judges will select the winner the night of the show.

“This is our first variety show competition, and it’s something our team has been talking about for a while. It felt like now was the best time to hit the ground running,” said Executive Director Phillips Payson. “We are looking for about 12 acts to include in the lineup and are excited to see who puts their best foot forward.”

Anyone can come to open auditions at the Palace Theater from 5 to 7 p.m. this Wednesday (March 29), and noon to 3 p.m. on Sunday, April 2. Performers will audition on a first come, first serves basis.

Those who can’t make it to in-person auditions can submit a video audition to info@hilopalace.com until Monday, April 3. Those submitting via email must use the subject line, “ISLAND STARS Audition [your name].”

Acts should be no more than 5 minutes long for in-person and video submissions. Solo and group performances will be considered, but due to the production logistics of this show, full-piece bands will not be considered at this time.

Prerecorded music and backing tracks are welcome and must be brought to the audition by the performer.

“The theme is ‘Glam Up,’ so we’re asking people to keep it glamorous. Although we can’t accommodate bands, we still encourage solo musicians, duos and trios,” Payson said.

“We want to feature a variety of performances, comedy, singing, dancing, circus arts and any other skills people can showcase. We want to see what everyone has.”

Aerial arts are welcomed to audition, but they must audition at Aerial Arts Hawaii at 6:30 p.m. on Sunday, April 2. Those interested are encouraged to bring their own apparatus, but if one is needed, reach out to info@hilopalace.com for assistance.

Those who auditioned will be notified about their status by Wednesday, April 5. Those in the show will be required to attend a tech rehearsal on Thursday, May 11.

More information about the variety competition and other upcoming events at the Palace can be found at hilopalace.com.

Email Kelsey Walling at kwalling@hawaiitribune-herald.com.