Lauren Skelley performs “Let It Go” from “Frozen” as an encore after being named the 2017 Taste of Talent champion in Franklin. (File photo by Sydney Herdle)
By HANNAH NIEDERRITER
Student contributor
For the last several years, Taste of Talent, a vocal competition in Franklin, has charmed audiences with a variety of gifted performers. This captivating event is scheduled to take place once again this summer from June 20 through August 5.
Taste of Talent offers a coveted chance for singers to gain exposure, along with a grand prize total of $1,000. While an abundant amount of entries may be submitted, twelve contestants are chosen to participate and perform in front of the general public at Bandstand Park. After each competition ends on Wednesday nights, the audience is offered the opportunity to vote for the contestant they thought executed their performance the best. Once all of the votes are tallied up, the singer with the least amount is eliminated from the running.
On June 20, the first competition of the eighth annual Taste of Talent is set to begin at 7 p.m. People from surrounding communities that would like to witness the wonders of each contestant will gather. In addition to the musical attractions, Taste of Talent provides the public with various appetizing snacks and delectable treats.
As mentioned previously, a total of twelve contestants will participate in the eighth annual Taste of Talent filled with excitement and amusement. These individuals are chosen by a select panel of judges which includes Christian Agnew, of Oil City; Ashleigh Bennett, of Franklin; Jacob Burris, of Oil City; Hagan Cook, of Franklin; Timothy Craver, of Franklin; Kiara Gabler, of Leeper; Scott Kennedy, of Franklin; Joe Lillard, of Oil City; Beth Ann Proudfoot, of Franklin; Jordan Rembold, of Franklin; Brianna Schwab, of Sligo; and last, but not least, Josie Skibinski, of Grove City.
Whoever may end up being the new Lauren Skelly (2017 Taste of Talent winner), Taste of Talent is a welcomed contribution to the plethora of activities located in Venango County. This alluring event draws the attention of both local residents and music enthusiasts. If there is time to spare, Taste of Talent is surely worth attending.
Hannah Niederriter is a 9th-grade student at Cranberry High School and a member of the school’s journalism/publications group.
