KY3 and the City of Springfield are proud to host the inaugural “Great Route 66 Talent Search” competition in 2023. We’re on the lookout for singer/songwriters, dancers and others ages 18 and older who have what it takes to bring people to their feet at the Birthplace of Route 66 Festival. And who knows? Maybe you’ll be discovered by industry professionals who scour local and regional festivals and the internet for America’s next great talent.
Two Competition Categories: Amateur or Professional
Rules
Prelims
Registration for the Talent Search will begin June 1. Until that time you may complete the interest form on this page to receive any communications about the competition. Entry will consist of the following:
- Completed entry form.
- Upload a video in an approved format showcasing your act. Format should be either .mp4 or .mov with a max file size of 400mb. The total run time must not be longer than 3 minutes. We STRONGLY RECOMMEND the video showcases a full, live performance. Acceptable videos can be anything from simple, raw footage to more elaborately produced pieces.
- Optionally, each act may upload a personal testimonial video (same formats and parameters as the performance video) to give fans and judges a better perspective of the artist(s) behind the talent.
Festival organizers will review all submissions and select 66 acts in each of the competition categories to advance to the semifinals.
Semifinals
A panel of four local judges, well versed in the entertainment industry, will review the videos of the semifinals and determine 10 professional acts and 10 amateur acts to advance to the final live competition.
Finals (LIVE competition at the Birthplace of Rt. 66 Festival)
Saturday, Aug. 12
The Top 20 chosen artists will perform in front of the panel of judges and a live audience at the Historic Shrine Mosque, 601 St. Louis (where Elvis and Bob Dylan once performed!) Winners will be selected from each category to “advance” to the America’s Got Talent audition.