There's still time to enter talent show at DuPage County Fair

Are you under 21 and think you're talented?

Prove it.

The DuPage County Fair wants you for its annual talent competition. Not only is the top prize a sparkling $100, but the winner in each of two categories will go downstate to compete for top dog status at the Illinois State Fair as well.

DuPage County claimed top prize in the state the first year it sent a contestant, so there is precedent, said organizer Sandy Jozef.

While the competition tends to draw an abundance of singers ala "American Idol," the field is wide open as far as possibilities. Think ballet, hip-hop, ventriloquism, puppetry, comedy, musical performances.

"I would love to see Scottish dancers," Jozef adds, sending out a personal appeal with an explanation. "We were at the Highland Games last week."

Needless to say, she was impressed by the sword dancing. But not to worry entrants, her vote doesn't count.

She's just looking for the crème de la crème when it comes to competitors for the DuPage competition -- and time is running out.

Entries must be postmarked by Monday.

There are two divisions: contestants 14 years and younger, and a senior division for those between 15 and 21.

In each group there are four prizes: $100 for first, $60 for second, $45 for third and $30 for fourth place.

The winner in each division will head downstate.

There are preliminary auditions scheduled for July 13 at the fairgrounds to choose eight finalists in each division. They'll perform in the DuPage County Fair talent show starting at 2 p.m. July 26 before a panel of judges and an audience.

Each entry carries a $20 fee.

For more information and the entry form, visit www.dupagecountyfair.org or call (630) 668-6636.