Issue link: http://www.epageflip.net/i/1497185
By Lynn Atkins For some people, the county fair brings to mind livestock or a carnival or arts and crafts, and some people think of music and dance. Every year the Benton County Fair includes a talent show for young people. Entries are now open to all Benton County residents ages 4-21 that would like to compete in the Benton County Talent Show. The show is split into three age divisions: kids (ages 4-9), juniors (ages 10-15) and seniors (ages 16-21). Talent show categories include vocals, instrumental, dance, and the variety show category, which includes lip syncing, pantomime, baton and juggling. The variety category might also include magicians or ventriloquists, director Andra Fritch said. Musical groups of up to 15 members are welcome to compete as long as all members are residents of Benton County. In 2022, there were 18 entries and Fritch is hoping to attract more this year. "To me, it's a platform outside of school that gives an additional opportunity to develop skills," she said. "The passion for performing arts for me comes from being a 4-H volunteer and a parent who has talked to kids – doing things away from your school peers is more fun." There are usually several contestants who don't attend traditional schools, she said. Her own daughters were homeschooled and both did well in the talent show. "For the homeschool community, it's an amazing opportunity to develop those skills. It allows you to learn to lose with grace and also hopefully to win with grace. They learn how to work harder and maybe win the next year. They learn to set higher goals and new techniques. Talent Show provides unique opportunity 24 2023 Benton County Fair