In an effort to find local talent for their Block Party events to be held this spring and summer, the Crocker Art Museum through its Block by Block initiative has invited the community to a 3-week series of talent auditions. Hosting their first audition on Sunday, Jan. 24, the Block is Hot Talent Search is looking for singers, musicians, dancers, poets, bands, actors, and performing or visual artists who are proud to represent their neighborhoods and the city of Sacramento.
The talent search is open to everyone, however, their focus is on residents of Sacramento City Districts 2 (North Sacramento), 5 (Oak Park and surrounding areas) and 8 (South Sacramento) or those who have a connection to these districts.
Partnering up with Sol Collective, the Sojourner Truth Museum and the Roberts Family Development Center, the Block is Hot Talent Search, which will again be held the next two Saturdays, invites the public to showcase individual and group talent. Selected performers will then be asked to perform at the upcoming community Block Party events that will take place in Districts 2, 5, and 8.
Each district will host its own Block Party on dates TBD in the warmer months ahead. The parties will highlight the selected neighborhood districts and will include performances, music, vendors, resources, art, and food.
Block by Block’s goal is to explore ways to engage communities underrepresented at the Crocker, and the Block Party events are designed to highlight local talent and to bring various groups together in celebrations characterized by diverse participation, self-expression, social responsibility, and collaboration.
At the Jan. 24 audition, which was held at Sol Collective, Andru Defeye served as host and did an excellent job of facilitating Sunday’s free event. I was unable to attend the whole event but enjoyed a little bit of comedy, live music, interpretive and hip-hop dancing and poetry. A supportive audience cheered contestants making them feel appreciated and welcome.
The next talent search will take place on Saturday, Jan. 30, 7pm-9pm at The Roberts Family Development Center. The final scheduled addition takes place on Saturday, Feb. 6, 11am-2pm at the Sojourner Truth Art Museum. To be considered, interested auditionees must sign up prior to attending.
More information about the talent search as well as Block by Block’s community efforts can be found at crockerblockbyblock.org and on their Facebook page.
Photos by David Alvarez
