
Talent Showcase Application
Sullivan County Talent Showcase 2026
Dates: August 3rd – August 7th, 2026
Location: Main Stage, Sullivan County Fairgrounds (Piney Flats, TN)
Competition Categories
The showcase is divided into three age divisions. Group acts compete in the division of their oldest member.
Division Age Range Eligibility
Little Stars Ages 5–12 Amateur youth performers.
Rising Stars Ages 13–18 Middle and High School students.
Premier Division Ages 19+ Adult amateur performers.
Performance Styles Accepted:
Vocal: Solo, Duet, or Group (A cappella or with backing track).
Instrumental: Solo or Ensemble (Piano, Guitar, Fiddle, etc.).
Dance: Clogging, Jazz, Ballet, Hip-Hop, or Modern.
Variety: Comedy, Magic, Juggling, or Skits.
Entry Fees
Entry fees go toward the “Winner’s Pot” and fairground stage maintenance.
Solo Entry: $50.00
Duo Entry: $90.00
Group Entry (4 members): $160.00 Larger Groups (Entry Fees will be set at the time of application acceptance)
Note: Entry fee includes one-day fair admission for the performer(s). Accompanying family must purchase standard gate tickets. (fees will be collected after an application has been accepted via electronic payment system.)
Rules & Regulations
Amateur Status: The competition is for amateurs only. Anyone who earns more than 50% of their annual income from performing is ineligible.
Time Limit: Acts are limited to 4 minutes. A 30-second grace period is allowed for setup. Acts exceeding 4 minutes and 30 seconds will face a point deduction.
Content Standards: This is a family-friendly event. Lyrics, costumes, and routines must be “G-rated.” No profanity, suggestive movements, or political statements.
Technical Requirements: * Backing tracks must be submitted via USB or emailed in MP3 format 48 hours prior to the show.
No live drums or large amplifiers permitted (to ensure quick transitions).
A standard sound system and two microphones will be provided.
Safety: No open flames, pyrotechnics, liquids, or live animals are allowed on stage.
Judging: Contestants will be judged on Stage Presence (25%), Technical Skill (40%), Originality (20%), and Audience Response (15%). The judges’ decisions are final.
Schedule of Events
Aug 3–4: Preliminary Rounds (Little & Rising Stars).
Aug 5: Preliminary Rounds (Premier Division).
Aug 6: Semi-Finals (Top 5 from each category).
Aug 7: Grand Finale & Awards Ceremony.
