By By MaryClaire Foster
Four contestants will do their best to fill the stage of Wind Creek Casino and Hotel’s amphitheater with as much talent as the previous night’s performer Saturday night to impress the judges and be named winner of Star Search.
The Star Search singing competition began May 21 at both Poarch Creek Indians Gaming’s Wind Creek and Riverside Casino facilities.
The contestants, the top two from each location, will perform just one night after country music’s Reba McEntire graced the stage and compete for a $5,000 grand prize. Representing Wind Creek are Shane Harrell and Lori Cocker and representing Riverside are Joanne Boyd and Jason Alan Jones.
Tim Ramer, director of guest services for PCI Gaming, said the combining of the competitions is to give more exposure to the contestants as well as allowing the audience to enjoy even more talent.
To ensure unbiased judging, Ramer said three more judges, all in media with two from Mobile and one from Atmore, are being brought in for the finale. Local businessman Chuck Stevens will continue his duties as emcee for the event.
The contest began with open casting calls and 14 contestants selected at each location. Contestants then performed songs from a judge’s choice genre each week and have been whittled down by two each round. Contestants are judged on a 50-point scale based on stage presence, singing ability and appearance. For the finale, each contestant will perform two songs of their choice.
Ramer said the competition has been a tremendous success at both locations, both in terms of attendance and quality of performers.
Ramer added Saturday’s attendance is expected to continue in the high numbers.
The contest begins at 8 p.m.