Southwest Florida Addiction Services is producing its third annual Every Child is a Star Talent Show, where children of all ages perform in a safe, drug-free venue.
The talent show is 3-5 p.m. Nov. 7 at First Christian Church in Fort Myers. It features performers from Cape Coral, North Fort Myers, Sanibel, East Fort Myers, Alva and Fort Myers.
Eighteen children tried out and were accepted into the 2009 show. Performances range from singing and dancing, to the creation of a magic act and a gymnastics routine.
Before the talent show begins, SWFAS will host a silent auction with different themed baskets — movies, sports and bath or body products, for example.
“When we decided to start this event three years ago, we wanted for the kids to have an outlet to express themselves and show their talent so they realize there are things you can do drug and alcohol free,” said Martha del Valle, SWFAS talent show coordinator.
Each year there is a theme. Last year was alcohol abuse, and this year there will be information on prescription drug abuse for children and parents, she said.
A patient from SWFAS’ rehabilitation center will tell children about the dangers of substance abuse.
“This year we are going to have one of our patients in the rehab center talk about their story,” del Valle said. “About how they started and how drugs got them in trouble.”
A roller skating demonstration, named “Jammin’ — The Net Skate Team,” will also open the show.
Auditions were held for the first time this year because there is always such a great turnout, said del Valle. Twenty-three performers auditioned this month.
Last year’s show had 25 performers. She said 25 was far too long and auditions were a way to keep the show manageable.
Elementary, middle and high school performers are each in the running to get a $75 cash prize.
“We are very pleased with the level of talent our community has in its young people and invite the public to come see for themselves,” said del Valle.
Admission is free to the show and the public is invited to attend.
The show is sponsored by the Bobby Nichols Fiddlesticks Charity Foundation and the H.J. Heinz Company.
SWFAS is a comprehensive substance abuse treatment and prevention program in Southwest Florida. It serves 6,000 people each year, ranging in age from 9 to 90.
For information, visit: www.swfas.org.