CHOCOWINITY — Twelve vocalists are one step closer to being named the winner of Tar Heel Variety Theater’s talent competition.

Those performers were chosen from among the 19 contestants who performed during the audition round of the competition, held Saturday night at theChocowinity entertainment venue. The twelve will compete again this Saturday in the contest’s grand finale.

Making it to the final round are Gene Hudson of Chocowinity; Nikki Foreman of Belhaven; Danny Harris of Greenville; Brian Williamson of Belvoir; Charles Wiggins of Vanceboro; Ashton Lalyn of Tarboro; Tarrah Walston of Beulaville; Chad Delph of New Bern; Don Shortslef of Garner; and Macon Williams, Linda Woolard and Kim Rogers, all of Washington.

“I’m excited about the turnout,” said Angie Lewis, whose family owns and operates the Tar Heel. “We had a lot of great talent. I wish they all could have gone through to the finals, but we have 12 great finalists coming back on Saturday to compete for the grand prize.”

First prize in the talent competition receives a cash award of $300 and the opportunity to serve as opening act for the Oct. 4 Tar Heel concert starring Billy “Crash” Craddock. The second place winner will be awarded a $125 cash prize and third place receives $75.

In both the audition and final rounds, performers are judged on voice quality, appearance, stage presence, song selection, tract quality and audience reaction, according to Lewis.

The talent show offers a wide range of music, with something to appeal to everyone, Lewis added. Singers performed everything from traditional country and gospel to pop and classic rock.

The audience enjoyed a musical treat during last weekend’s auditions when Dana Lewis, whose family owns the theater, stepped onstage to perform as special guest. A frequent performer during the Tar Heel’s shows, she has developed a regular following of fans at the theater.

This Saturday’s grand finale begins at 7 p.m. and doors open an hour before show time. Each of the 12 finalists will perform two songs. Admission is $10 per person.

*For more information about the Tar Heel Variety Theater, call 252-975-2117 or visit www.tarheelvarietytheater.com.