Louisiana native and country music artist Lainey Wilson ("4x4xU," "Watermelon Moonshine," "Things a Man Outta Know") helped announce a new statewide talent competition last week.
"I know what it's like to grow up with big dreams in a small town. This kind of opportunity can change everything," Wilson, who grew up in Baskin, said in a Facebook reel.
Bayou Star Search will take place at 7 p.m. Aug. 16 at Howard Theatre on the campus of Louisiana Tech University in Ruston.
Singers, dancers, musicians and performers of all kinds will square off in the Louisiana Delta Ballet-produced contest. Prizes will include $10,000, first place, $3,000, second place; and $1,000, third place.
Proceeds from Bayou Star Search will benefit Louisiana Delta Ballet, a 501(c)(3) corporation.
Participants must be residents of Louisiana or attending an in-state higher education institution. Rules restrict lip-syncing, profanity or insensitive subject matter.
To apply, complete online form, pay the nonrefundable $35 application fee and upload a video (not longer than 2½ minutes) of their talent, all at bayoustarsearch.com.
"Submit your audition and show us what you got. I'll be cheering you on," Wilson said.
Those interested in becoming a sponsor can email bayoustarsearch@gmail.com.