'Stand Up & Sing' at Sun City

"American Idol" celebrities Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson and Paula Abdul would be the ones sent packing in a new national vocal competition, Stand Up & Sing by Del Webb.

The reason -- they just aren't "old" enough to participate.

The new Del Webb national vocal competition, Stand Up & Sing, presented by ATA Airlines, is open to residents ages 55 and older of Del Webb communities across the country.

A solo vocal competition, each participant is given approximately three minutes to sing their favorite song with background music provided by a CD or live accompanist. Style of music is the soloist's choice.

Sun City Huntley will hold its competition today.

Del Webb, a brand of Pulte Homes, is the nation's largest developer of active adult communities that cater to America's 55 and older population.

"It's all about initiating creative lifestyle programs at our Del Webb communities," said Judy Julison, national director of lifestyle operations for Pulte Homes.

"Our residents love the opportunity to showcase their personal talents in a supportive environment. Stand Up & Sing lets their natural singing talents shine in a competitive, yet fun, venue."

With more than 50 Del Webb communities in 20 states, it is expected that hundreds of Del Webb residents representing the states of California, Nevada, Colorado, Texas, Illinois, South Carolina, New Jersey, Virginia and Florida, will participate in the competition.

More than 58,000 Del Webb residents have the opportunity to watch the performances or compete at the various venues.

Local competitions will determine which performers are sent to compete for the inaugural Stand Up & Sing national crown at the end of October. Sun City Huntley, the first Del Webb community built outside America's Sunbelt, will host the finals on Oct. 18-20.

The national winner of the Stand Up & Sing competition will receive a $1,000 cash prize. ATA Airlines is the official airline of the competition.