Yonkers to showcase its talented teens, preteens

Wednesday February 13, 2013 4:00 PM By Sana Karim-Noori

Photo credit: Newsday.com | Yonkers teens and preteens will have the chance to compete in upcoming "Yonkers Idol" and "Yonkers Best Dance Crew" contests.

Let the hunt for Yonkers' finest begin. Mayor Mike Spano announced today that the city will search for the most talented locals in singing and dancing competitions, which kick off next weekend.

The "Yonkers Got Talent" contest, which includes "Yonkers Idol" and "Yonkers Best Dance Crew" competitions, is open to local teens and preteens. Conducted in collaboration with the Untermyer Performing Arts Council and hosted by the Yonkers Department of Parks, Recreation and Conservation, the kickoff event will take place from 5:20 to 7:20 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 23, at E.J. Murrays Skating Center (348 Tuckahoe Rd., Yonkers; 914-377-6469).

“The time has come for our youth to showcase their talent to the City of Yonkers,” Spano said in a news release. “These competitions provide immeasurable experience for our young residents, and I encourage all those who have the dream to perform to audition and show us just how talented Yonkers is.”

Saturday's event will feature karaoke, ice skating and a competition information session. Aspiring participants also will get the chance to rehearse for their auditions, which are set to begin March 2. The event is free and open to Yonkers residents only; advance reservations should be made by emailing yonkersgottalent@gmail.com.

In addition to live auditions, contestants can enter video submissions by Friday, March 15. The winners of the "Yonkers Idol" and "Junior Idol" competitions will be asked to perform at various City of Yonkers events and ceremonies throughout the year, and the best dancers will go on to compete in the "Yonkers Best Dance Crew" competition. Prize money also will be awarded to winners.

For more details on the talent search, visit www.yonkersgottalent.com or the city’s website at www.yonkersny.gov.

Tags: Yonkers , Westchester , events