Meet the judges
Beth Waller, cultural arts supervisor for the Schaumburg Park District
The producer of Schaumburg Idol and Schaumburg's Got Talent, Beth Waller is the recipient of the 2013 Helen Doris Arts in the Park Award presented by the Arts Alliance of Illinois and the Illinois Association of Park Districts. She has produced, directed and choreographed musicals since 1979. She has performed in numerous productions as well throughout her career and has written 11 children's plays. Waller has extensive dance experience as a performer and instructor. She also studied and competed in violin, voice and piano. Waller oversees the music, dance, theater and visual arts programs for the district. One of Waller's favorite parts of her career is assisting students to become professional artists.
John Flamini, chairman of the cultural commission, Village of Schaumburg
John Flamini is a musician and teacher who has performed on radio and television as well as at venues in and around Chicago. After graduating from VanderCook College of Music with a bachelor of arts and master's degree in music education, he taught band and orchestra in Schaumburg School District 54. During his tenure as a teacher and certified administrator in District 54, he was chosen to serve as coordinator of fine arts until he retired. Flamini is still active in his community as a performing musician, teacher and a member of the Village of Schaumburg Cultural Commission.
Barbara Vitello, Daily Herald staff writer
Barbara Vitello joined the Daily Herald in 1997. Assigned to cover arts, entertainment and culture, she served as critic at large until 2008, when she took over the Cook County courts beat. She continues to review theater as well. A Lisagor Award winner, Barbara has bachelor's and master's degrees from Northwestern University. She was a judge last year for Suburban Chicago's Got Talent.