From the Archives (1956): Search For Talent Held at Irma

Originally published in the April 13, 1956 edition of The Irma Times (which was an offshoot of The Viking News) – The Irma Search For Talent show sponsored by the Wainwright Kinsmen Club, was held at the Irma School Auditorium on Wednesday, April 4.

Although the weather was extremely bad, all the contestants turned out to perform with the exception of one. A fair audience assembled and enjoyed a good two hour show.

First prize went to Gordon Hollinger, age 22, a vocal from Irma. He sang “Thine Alone” with adjudicators awarding him 120 out of 150 points for a fine performance.

Second prize went to another young vocalist, Miss Carol Garvie, from Kinsella. This 16 year old contestant was awarded 110 out of 150 possible points for singing “Ah Sweet Mystery of Life.”

Third prize went to a vocal duet sung by Vivian and Irene Archibald of Irma who sang “He.” They were awarded 105.5 out of 150 points.

Vocalist Erling Nilson, age 19 of Irma, was the fourth winner, winning with 103 total points.

Although most of the remaining contestants range from 95 to 101 points, a strong western number that was sung by Allan Hicox stood 5th, only 2 points behind 4th and last of the winners.

Other contestants that were outstanding were Wallace Dunbar, age 10, who played an accordion extremely well.

All of the Irma winners have agreed to compete in the Grand Search For Talent show that will be held in Wainwright June 15.