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In an effort to recruit new vocal talent for the 2008 season, auditions will take place at 6:30 p.m. Feb. 28 and March 4 at the American Legion Memorial Building, 1701 W. Genesee St. in Lapeer. Those interested in auditioning should bring pre-recorded music for at least two song choices for each of the show.

"We're doing auditions for all of them," said L.E.G. member Pam Wagner. "Say someone really likes country. Then they can audition for A Night of Country."

Five shows are on tap this year beginning with Sock Hop Saturday Night on April 12. This 1950s sock-hop style show will feature the Fairlanes & The DeVilles. Proceeds will benefit the Lapeer County Deputies Association's children's fund.

On June 21, A Night of Country Music will raise money for the Lapeer Car Cruiser's Children's Foundation.

An Evening with Disney will take place Aug. 30, benefiting LOVE, Inc.

"It could be anything from songs and dance," said Wagner of the Disney-themed event. "Somebody might do a dialogue from 'The Lion King' and act it out. It will depend on how the auditions turn out. Maybe somebody will come and play the harmonica."

She adds the auditions for all the shows will determine what will be in store for each event.

"It will depend a lot on the pool of talent and how we direct," she said.

One of the most successful shows in 2007 will be back for another round on Oct. 18. A Tribute to the Legends will have local artists portraying musical legends including Frank Sinatra, Patsy Cline, Elvis, Garth Brooks and more. Those who have a favorite artist they portray, like Roy Orbison or Johnny Cash, are encouraged to audition.

The season will end Dec. 6 with the Home for the Holidays Christmas Show benefiting Lapeer County Habitat for Humanity.

In 2007, L.E.G. launched six music shows featuring local signers and bands. Around $3,000 was raised for local non-profit organizations.

"We feel we had a successful first year," Wagner said. "It was fun. We learned a lot. And honestly, we felt it was a lot more successful than we anticipated. We had bigger crowds on some we thought we wouldn't have. The charities we assisted have been on board with it.

"We want to hit it hard and get non-profit status, and keep the momentum going."

Tickets are normally $10 for each show. But Neda Payne, Executive Director for the Lapeer Area Chamber of Commerce, said season ticket packages will be available for $40.

"We did have folks who came to several shows," Payne said.

Unless changed in the future, all shows will take place at 7:30 p.m. at the American Legion Memorial Building. They will also feature dancing and a cash bar. Proceeds from 50/50 raffles will also benefit the sponsored organizations.

"It's just so unique in this area to have something like (this)," Payne said. "It gives local artists an opportunity and venue to perform at. It's all for charity. It's been fun. People enjoy uniqueness."

For more information, about auditions, contact Payne at (810) 441-1491, or Wagner at (810) 338-7812.

Jeff Hoard can be reached at (810) 664-0811, Ext. 8127 or jeff.hoard@lapeergroup.com.