“American Idol” has nothing on these boys and girls.
Dancers will come from all over the state this weekend to compete in a Showbiz talent competition at the Veteran’s Memorial. Showbiz National Talent, a Texas company that organizes talent competitions all over the country, will host the event.
“Our season starts the first of January to July and we travel to 20 different states each year to give the dancers a chance to compete on their own level of expertise,” said Sharon Faith, director of facilities for Showbiz.
The events consist of three levels: juniors who are 11 years old and younger; pre-teens who are 12-14; and seniors who are 15 and older. Winners from each division receives a trophy and some contestants will receive grants to continue their training.
The numbers are performed in full costume provided by the studio. Showbiz also carries its own line of clothing.
“The parents and family of the dancers always come to watch. They usually make up most of the audience, but anyone is welcome to see the show,” said Melody Stevens, assistant manager of the Veteran’s Memorial.
Showbiz has hosted competitions at the Veteran’s Memorial since 2001, Stevens said.
“Columbus is one of our regional competitions, and studios come from all over Ohio as well as areas around the state to try out for a spot in the nationals,” Faith said.
The three nationals each year are held in Arlington, Texas, Charleston, S.C. and Palm Springs, Fla. Only those who compete in regionals can go on to nationals.
Most of the studios involved compete each year. The Northpointe Dance Academy, located in Columbus, places in most divisions every year.
“Training starts at the beginning of summer. The numbers are introduced to the students and choreographers come from in or out of Ohio to teach,” said Mike Minerf, representative for Northpointe. Minerf is the father of one of this year’s competitors.
The students typically practice at the studio three days a week with the two main teachers or college and high school students who have been dancing for many years, Minerf said.
Showbiz travels with its own sound equipment and stage set-up and the facilities it uses are usually ones they have been attending for years.
“They are fairly self-contained. They come in and run themselves,” Stevens said.
The company is booked until 2006 with different competitions and shows nationwide.
“We have been in this business for 13 years and are No. 1 in dance competition,” Faith said.
She said most of the competing studios find out about Showbiz by word of mouth or dance magazines such as Dance Spirit.
There will be shows on stage from 8 a.m.-11 p.m. on Saturday and 8 a.m.-8 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is free.
