Top 8 advance in annual DWU talent contest

The search for the next Dakota Wesleyan Idol began Monday, and already the competition is fierce.

Fourteen acts took the stage the first night of competition in hopes of being crowned the next champion. Only eight were chosen to move onto the next round, Monday, Feb. 14.

The top contestants will be narrowed to six and perform Feb. 21; then four will vie for the top spot Feb. 28. Monday, students chose their own songs to perform on audition night. On Monday, contestants will sing love songs. February 21 will be an evening dedicated to songs from soundtracks, and on Feb. 28 the final four will sing songs of the ’90s and a selection of their choice. Each competition is at 10 p.m. at the Sherman Center. The winner will receive $500, second place will win $300, and third $200.

Wesleyan Idol is modeled after the popular Fox series “American Idol.” Like “American Idol,” Wesleyan Idol has three judges — Director of Center for Talent Development Jackie Miskimins, Public Relations Specialist Mari Olson and Campus Pastor Brandon Vetter — who critique each act.

“I love finding students that you had no idea they could sing … those wallflowers you didn’t know had talent,” Vetter said.

Students can vote for their favorite act via text messaging or by a ballot vote each night of competition.

Carrie Swanson, a member of the Student Activities Board, which sponsors the event, said Monday’s opening round showcased a wide variety of talent.

“It’s going to be a difficult decision,” Swanson said in regard to choosing the top acts. “They were all amazing.”

Some acts were more prepared than others, but as the weeks go on, she said contestants will become surer of themselves.

Vetter added that the talent among the contestants has grown since the contest began four years ago. He noted Jenna Callies, Mike Lynch and Brooke Warne as those that have grown since their first performances in years past.

“Over the past four years, they have consistently either finished in the top three or close,” he said.

Director of Student Life Diana Goldammer said the event is a popular one for performers and spectators.

“The students just turn out in droves,” she said. “In events like this, students can really support each other.”

Tags: wesleyan idol, dakota wesleyan university, lynn geuke, david elliot, brooke warne, mike lynch, brandon vetter, diana goldammer, carrie swanson, american idol, life