Students will take the stage to showcase their talents Feb. 10 in Bothell High’s Annual Talent Show. From 7-9 p.m. in the Nothshore Performing Arts Center, students can watch their fellow classmates battle it out with their voices, humor, musical skills and more.
This year, seniors Teo Ekstrom and Kelsey Meyer will be hosting the show. “We chose the hosts by what they are involved in,” says senior Melissa Lamb, who is senior co-chair of the show along with junior Baylee Bissenden. “And their sense of humor.”
Meyer has prepared for hosting by doing lip trills. “Teo and I are mastering our jokes,” she says. “I’ve asked a few people who I know are good emcees what advice they have,” says Ekstrom.
The auditions took place Jan. 10-11 and the acts were chosen by a five-person judging panel on the categories of creativity, entertainment factor, preparedness and overall performance. “There were about 30 acts who auditioned,” says Lamb. “And we chose 14 total for the show.” However, the official show will have 15 acts with a special “mystery” act.
Many of the acts will be returning from previous years. Senior band, MAJiC, with lead singer Aly Henniger will take the stage again and will perform a song by Sara Barellies, similar to last year.
The “judge’s pick” winner will receive a free ticket to either prom or next year’s homecoming dance. This year, there will also be a “crowd favorite” winner who will be chosen through audience donations after the show. All the donations will go toward the Make A Wish Foundation, and the winner will also receive a prize.
“I’m looking forward to all the fresh talent that is hidden at Bothell,” says host Meyer. “I love seeing people who come out of nowhere and are incredible.”
The show’s judging panel will be comprised of math teachers Marlie Davis and Bob Kimbrough, and science teacher Amanda Rainwater. The judges will evaluate the contestants on the basis of creativity, overall sound and stage presence.
The theme will be Cougar Night Live, a take on late-night TV show, Saturday Night Live.
There will be a $5 suggested donation at the door, and seats will be on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Alexandra Graff is a Bothell High senior.
