CHOCOWINITY — The Beaufort County stage where such country music legends as Roy Clark, Bill Anderson, Connie Smith and Ronnie McDowell have performed is the setting for a show featuring up and coming singers.

Tar Hill Variety Theater in Chocowinity is looking for contestants to share their musical gifts during the Sept. 6 opening round, the first talent show the theater has sponsored in at least two years.

“This is the Tar Hill’s version of ‘America’s Got Talent,'” said Angie Lewis, whose family owns and operates the entertainment venue.

There is no entry fee for the contest and performers of all ages are welcome. The Sept. 6 show is an audition round and the judges’ top choices will advance to the grand finale, scheduled for Sept. 13.

Judges will choose finalists based on voice quality, appearance, stage presence, tract quality, song selection and audience reaction, according to Lewis.

The first prize winner will receive a $300 cash award and the opportunity to open the Tar Heel show featuring Billy “Crash” Craddock the evening of Oct. 4.

Second place winner receives $125 and third places wins $75.

Even though the Tar Heel is traditionally a country, gospel and bluegrass venue, all types of music can be showcased during the competition.

“It can be any kind of music as long as it’s clean,” Lewis said. “It has to be a good, clean family song.”

Lewis is hoping for a good turnout of performers and audience members to cheer them on.

“We encourage anyone to come out who wants their five minutes of fame,” she said. “And we encourage everyone to come out and be a part of the audience and hear some great talent.”

Show time for both nights of competition is 7 p.m. and admission is $10. Doors open for seating at 6 p.m.

For more information or to register for the contest, contact Lewis at 252-975-2117 or visit www.tarheelvarietytheater.com.