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STEUBENVILLE -- The search for the Ohio Valley’s next generation of talented young performers is underway as the Ohio Valley Youth Network and Sycamore Youth Center host auditions for the 2026 Valley’s Got Talent competition.
Auditions began this week and will continue at several area high schools and the Sycamore Youth Center, giving young people throughout the region an opportunity to showcase their talents.
The annual Christian talent competition invites young people ages 13-23 from within 35 miles of Steubenville to demonstrate their abilities in singing, dancing, instrumental music, drama and other performing arts. More than $1,000 in prizes will be awarded, including a $500 grand prize.
The competition will culminate in a live championship performance at 4 p.m. Nov. 22 in the Steubenville High School Auditorium, where approximately 20 selected acts will compete before an audience.
“Valley’s Got Talent is about much more than discovering talented young people,” said Bobbyjon Bauman, president of the Ohio Valley Youth Network and executive director of the Sycamore Youth Center. “We want to give young people an opportunity to develop their God-given gifts, build confidence and share their talents in a positive, encouraging environment. Every year, we are amazed by the incredible talent throughout the Ohio Valley.”
Upcoming auditions include:
• Monday: Indian Creek High School, 3 p.m. to 3:45 p.m.
• Tuesday: Steubenville High School, 2:45 p.m. to 3:45 p.m.
• Thursday: Steubenville Catholic Central High School: 2:45 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
• Nov. 15: Sycamore Youth Center, 301 N. Fourth St., Steubenville: 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Students do not have to attend the school hosting an audition to participate. Homeschooled students and young adults who meet the age and residency requirements are encouraged to enter. Video auditions are also accepted for those unable to attend in person.
Because Valley’s Got Talent is a Christian competition, performances must reflect a positive, faith-centered message. Vocal selections and musical accompaniment for dance performances must contain Christian content. Secular songs are not permitted, and song lyrics must be submitted for approval.
Bauman encouraged prospective contestants to review the competition guidelines and register soon.
“We have seen young people discover talents they never knew they had, overcome their fear of performing and grow tremendously through this competition,” Bauman said. “Some of our former contestants have gone on to pursue music and performing arts more seriously. It is exciting to see how one opportunity can make such a difference in a young person’s life.”
Interested performers can register online at: sycamorecenter.churchcenter.com/people/forms/1325917
Complete competition rules and additional information are available at sycamorecenter.com/signupinfo.
The Valley’s Got Talent finals on Nov. 22 will bring together some of the region’s most promising young performers for an afternoon celebrating talent, creativity and faith.
The event is organized by the Ohio Valley Youth Network, the nonprofit organization that operates the Sycamore Youth Center in downtown Steubenville.