Calgary – Saturday night was Layton Kramer’s time to shine at the 2014 Stampede Talent Search. With a captivating vocal performance of an original composition entitled “Sea of Glass”, self-accompanied on his electric guitar, the 19 year old musician from Canmore, Alberta, who currently resides in Vancouver, BC, stood out from a talented field of performers. Kramer was awarded the Grand Prize consisting of a customized performer development package including recording sessions, musical equipment and performance opportunities. Kramer will also receive $5000, the President’s Trophy and a commemorative silver belt buckle.
“For 34 years, the Stampede Talent Search has discovered talent that goes the distance,” says Scott Henderson, chair, Stampede Talent Search committee. “We are grateful that the Calgary Stampede invests in rising Canadian talent and are excited that this volunteer run talent search is an annual marquee event of the Calgary Stampede.”
Other winners from the Stampede Talent Search finals include:
First runner up: Emma Rose from Calgary, AB.
Second runner up: Lizzy Munson from Calgary, AB.
Third runner up and Don Welden award for most promising performer: Kaleigh Jo Kirk from Cochrane, AB.
Fan Favourite award chosen through texts and tweets: Kyra Brynne Lake from Calgary, AB.
This year, more than 300 amateur Canadian youth performers demonstrated their singing, dancing, acting, musical and variety performance abilities during auditions. Sixty-three senior performers (aged 13 to 21) were selected to compete for more than $10,000 in cash and prizes. In addition, nine junior performers (aged six to 12) were showcased during the eight days of competition.
Registration for the 2015 Stampede Talent Search will begin in March 2015 and auditions will be held in May. Additional information and online registration is available on the Stampede Talent Search website: www.stampedetalentsearch.com
The mission of the Stampede Talent Search is to discover, develop, encourage and showcase young amateur performers. This program is just one of the ways the Calgary Stampede fulfills its commitment to provide youth with the opportunity to develop strong roots in their culture and heritage through programs that enhance personal growth, citizenship and education.