Skokie Idol

Neither snow nor sleet nor global pandemics will stop the music. This year, Skokie Idol goes virtual with new rules and new challenges.

The contest is open to everyone, regardless of where you live. Contestants will be assigned to the Jr. Division, Teen Division, or Adult Division. Three divisions mean there will be three Skokie Idols.

Contestants will be given seven song challenges to record on their phones, tablets, zoom, or other devices. Their songs will be shared weekly in an online show where the audience gets to vote for their favorites. There are no eliminations. At the end of the seven challenges, the top scoring contestants will be invited back for the semi-finals, then the finals, and then finally onto the winner’s stage.

Unlike past years, there are no weekly eliminations. Your first song will not be scored, but your remaining songs will be presented in a weekly online show and receive votes from the public and votes from our judges. Of the six songs that are scored, we will take your five highest scores and use those to determine your rank and whether you qualify for the semi-finals. We have several judges who will evaluate and critique your work while offering instructional suggestions for improvement.

Record your songs on your phone or your tablet. You can record then in a zoom session. Or you can have a friend record you on a handcam. Every time you submit a song you will be sent your next challenge. Each week is a different category, so each week will be a new challenge for you.

Receive free coaching from industry professionals. Each week we will send you written comments from our panel of judges, comprised of some of the finest vocalists and musicians in Chicago.

You can sing to a track. You can sing a cappella. You can have someone accompany you. But you must be the only singer. (Occasionally, a pre-recorded song track contains background singers. That’s ok as long as you sing the lead).

Many contestants enjoy the challenge of playing for themselves. Others prefer to sing to a track. It’s all up to you.
GRAND PRIZE: The Skokie Idol winners from each category will be featured live in a free concert this summer
on the Skokie Village Green.

Your first song challenge is an easy one:
SING YOUR FAVORITE SONG.

For official rules and registration, visit
SkokieTheatre.org/Skokie-Idol

Once we have your registration form and registration fee, we will send you instructions on how to send your song to us. In the mean time, good luck and have fun. We can’t wait to hear your sing.