Sing Your Heart Out: WQRK’s Persimmon Idol is calling local talent!

MITCHELL Time is running out for aspiring vocalists across Southern Indiana to step into the spotlight!

Organizers remind prospective contestants that the official entry deadline to sign up for the 105.5 WQRK and 102.5 Lite FM Persimmon Idol competition is Wednesday, September 10, at noon.

Offering a platform for regional talent, the contest features two distinct age divisions: a Youth division for ages 10 to 17, and an Adult division for ages 18 and up. Beyond local bragging rights, victorious performers in each category will walk away with a custom Persimmon Idol trophy and a $500 cash prize.

Key Dates and Schedule:

  • Entry Deadline: Wednesday, September 10, at 12:00 p.m. (Online registration or on-site sign-ups at prelims).
  • Preliminary Auditions: Thursday, September 10, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Mitchell High School Auditorium. These closed-door auditions require contestants to perform before a panel of judges without friends or family in the room.
  • Finalists Notified: Finalists chosen to advance will be contacted by Wednesday, September 17.
  • Grand Finale Performance: Tuesday, September 22, at 7:30 p.m. on the Main Street Stage. Finalists will perform live under the festival lights for a free-admission public audience.

Contestants performing with recorded music must provide their own backing track on CD, free of any lead vocals. Instrumental accompaniment, duets, and a cappella performances are also welcome (though a cappella is discouraged), and all song selections must be family-friendly, limited to four minutes, and accompanied by printed lyrics at the preliminary round.

Whether you are a seasoned stage performer or ready to share your voice with the community for the very first time, don’t miss your chance to take the microphone.

To look over the full official rules and submit your entry before the September 10 deadline, visit the official WQRK Persimmon Idol page.