How to Set up a 4-H Talent Show

Kids involved in 4-H develop a wide variety of skills and abilities, so consider holding an event to show off their abilities. Getting a 4-H talent show off the ground is easier than you might think. All you need are some interested kids and a family-friendly environment.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Locate a venue for the talent show that will be easily accessible to community members. Look for a spot that's large enough to accommodate your audience, conveniently located and has the resources or technology that you'll need.
2. Decide whether you want the talent show to be competitive. You can choose to have a non-competitive 4-H talent show by simply showcasing talents, or you can choose a rating system with each participant receiving an individual rating of Excellent, Good or Fair without a staged competition or prizes. You also can have a competition with judges picking the winners.
3. Contact the district and state levels of the 4-H program to find out if there are talent shows going on that your show can feed into. If this is the case, you will probably want to go with a competitive structure so winners can move on to the next level.
4. Allow for divergent talents that may not fit into the traditional idea of a talent show. While some children may want to sing or dance, others may want to show off non-performance talents like crafts or gardening. Find room to accommodate these participants by setting up display tables.
5. Print a clear entry form that contains space for the participant's age and contact information. Have the participant stipulate whether the act is group or individual, identify the type of talent being exhibited, and indicate whether technology or audiovisual equipment is needed. Leave a check box for any disability or accessibility needs.
6. Publicize your talent show among 4-H participants and the wider community. Contact schools, community organizations, local publications and other media to advertise for participants and spectators.
7. Provide information about 4-H during the show so interested spectators can pursue membership. Have brochures, membership forms and any other relevant information on hand.