Idol contest brings the fire to Elgin festival

American Idol had nothing on FoxFireFest Saturday.

The three-day Elgin festival held the semifinals of its Elgin Idol competition, with seven contestants competing to advance to today's finals.

Contestants vied for spots in four categories - 7 to 13 years old, 14 to 18 and 19 and over, as well as a band category.

The competition, held at Festival Park's kids' stage, saw Elgin residents Allie Schrepple and Alyssa Maldonado, both 14, belt out Nancy Sinatra's "These Boots are Made for Walking."

Eight-year-old Natalia Szkubel, also of Elgin, wowed the crowed with an English and Polish version of "When you Believe" from "The Prince of Egypt" movie.

Britney Tepper, 17, of Gilberts, sang a heartfelt version of Carrie Underwood's "Before he Cheats."

Gabe Kane and Adam Wolcott of Elgin played their homegrown acoustic mix.

Contestants reached the finals by competing over a four-week period in beginning June 24. More than 50 local musicians competed in the contest.

Among Saturday's judges were 2007 "American Idol" finalist Leslie Hunt of St. Charles and Elgin High School English Teacher Melissa Suda.

First-place winners in each age group received $50 Best Buy gift cards, along with the glory of advancing to the finals.

Finalists will perform at 2 p.m. today on Festival Park's small stage.

"We lucked out this year," said Elgin special events coordinator Michelle Hansen, "both with the amount of talent and the weather."

Fire: Finalist will perform today