Date: Friday, July 10, 2009

Time: 2:00 PM

Location: Chicago

Is your child a budding pop star? Does he or she have what it takes to be an Irish music star? The Irish American Heritage Center will again hold this wildly popular singing contest, Sham-ROCK Stars, during Irish Fest this July 10-12. Irish Fest is located at the IAHC at 4626 North Knox Avenue, Chicago. The event is a singing contest for kids 18 and under.

Contestants perform a traditional or modern Irish song, for a group of judges, comprised of musicians and IAHC fest volunteers.

The contest consists of two divisions: SHAMROCKS - Teens between the ages of 13 and 18. CLOVERS - Children under the age of 12.

Preliminary auditions will begin at 2 p.m. on Saturday, July 11 and will be judged by a panel of judges.

On Sunday, July 12, the sing-off between the four talented singers from each division will perform 2pm. Further judging will be based on scores form a panel of judges and audience response. Winners will be announced during a special Grand Finale on the Main Stage at 4pm. Grand prize packages will include a Sham-ROCK Stars VIP Package featuring star treatment for the winners at a yet undisclosed Chicago location. Runners-up will also receive prizes.

REGISTRATION: Participants must be 18 years old or younger. Advance registration is REQUIRED. Parents and hopeful rockers can sign up through the Web site at www.irishfestchicago.com or by phone at 773-282-7035. Forms must be turned in no later than Saturday, July 11 at noon. Parents' permission is required.

For more information or to purchase tickets, call 773-282-7035, ext. 10.