FORT EUSTIS, Va. –
If your voice has karaoke bars asking you to come back and sing, and house parties are not complete until you belt out perfect renditions of 60's rock tunes, then the 733rd Force Support Division at Fort Eustis has an opportunity for you to showcase your talents.
Starting Sept. 13, auditions for Operation Rising Star will take place at the Fort Eustis Club. ORS is an Army-wide singing competition held each year, offering contestants a multitude of prizes and the opportunity of a lifetime for one lucky contestant, said Sherri Noland, 733rd FSD chief of marketing.
"Anyone who can sing really has a chance to win, and the prizes are phenomenal," said Noland. "The winner receives $500 and moves on to the finals, and the most supportive unit wins $300"
Progression to the finals means the winning Fort Eustis ORS contestant could compete against 11 other winners from different installations for the grand prize of $1000 and a 3-song, all-expense-paid record deal.
"Even if the contestants don't win, that doesn't mean they don't go places," said Noland. "Last year, the winning Soldier from Fort Eustis signed on with the Army Soldier Show even though he didn't win the grand prize."
The rules of the event are similar to TV competitions of the same nature. Before the finals, 50 percent of the verdict comes from audience response, and the other half comes from the judges' decisions. For the final round, only the judges' votes count.
The contest is not limited to Soldiers; Department of Defense civilians, retirees, Service members and family members may all submit applications and audition. Dependent family members must be at least 18 by Nov. 6 in order to participate.
Auditions are identical to the popular "American Idol" TV show. Participants must sing acapella for the initial audition, but are permitted to bring musical instruments for the competition or other items with the permission of the 733rd FSD, said Noland.
Those interested in competing can call the 733rd FSD at 878-4430 for application forms. Forms must be submitted by Sept. 11, and auditions begin Sept. 13.