Applications are open for one of the Ohio Valley’s most anticipated youth showcases, the Valley’s Got Talent 2025 competition. Set for 4 p.m. on November 23 at the Steubenville High School Auditorium, the event promises to bring together creativity, inspiration, and community pride in a vibrant celebration of emerging local talent. Hosted by the Sycamore Youth Center and the Ohio Valley Youth Network (OVYN), the competition continues its tradition of highlighting exceptional young artists while fostering positive, faith-centered expression.
This year’s event will feature special performances by past winners Lynzee Ensell, the 2021 champion and now an eighth-grader at Harding Middle School, and Dalana Bove, winner of the 2024 edition and a sophomore at Indian Creek High School. According to Bobbyjon Bauman, Sycamore’s Executive Director and OVYN President, the duo will perform during the judges’ deliberation — offering both nostalgia and motivation to this year’s participants. The competition’s mission remains steadfast: to uplift young voices and celebrate talents that embody values of hope, integrity, and creativity.
A Platform for the Next Generation of Performers
The Valley’s Got Talent competition is not just a stage — it’s a springboard for young dreamers. Designed for participants aged 13 to 23 who live within a 35-mile radius of Steubenville, the event welcomes a wide range of artistic disciplines. From soulful singers to energetic dancers, dramatic actors to innovative performers, the stage is open to all who wish to inspire.
The 2025 edition places a strong emphasis on faith-centered and positive themes, encouraging participants to create performances that reflect personal values and uplift the community. Contestants can perform as soloists, duos, or in groups. Bands and choirs are welcome to include adult accompaniment, but only performers aged 13–23 will be judged to maintain the youth focus of the competition.
Key Registration Details
Participants can apply via the official registration link at sycamorecenter.com/signupinfo. The selection process includes live tryouts at multiple high schools in the Steubenville area, offering convenience and inclusivity for interested applicants.
Tryout schedule:
- Nov 4: Steubenville Catholic Central High School (2:45–3:30 p.m.)
- Nov 6: Steubenville High School (2:30–3:15 p.m.)
- Nov 13: Edison High School (3–4 p.m.)
- Nov 15: Sycamore Youth Center (1–3 p.m.)
Applicants are encouraged to register early to secure their slot. As previous years have shown, demand tends to exceed capacity, reflecting the event’s growing popularity across the Ohio Valley.
Building Faith Through Art: Why Valley’s Got Talent Matters
For the Ohio Valley Youth Network and the Sycamore Youth Center, Valley’s Got Talent is about more than applause or trophies. It’s about nurturing purpose and community engagement. Bauman emphasizes that the show’s enduring success stems from its commitment to faith, mentorship, and inclusivity — offering a stage where artistic expression aligns with moral grounding.
Core Objectives of the Event
- Empowerment: Giving youth the confidence to express themselves through their God-given talents.
- Community Connection: Uniting families, schools, and neighborhoods in shared celebration.
- Positive Role Modeling: Encouraging values-driven performances that inspire peers.
- Skill Development: Offering participants feedback from experienced judges and mentors.
- Recognition: Highlighting the Ohio Valley’s diverse pool of creative talent.
The competition has previously launched the artistic journeys of several regional performers who have gone on to participate in state-level showcases, youth ministries, and even professional platforms. It also fosters civic pride, reminding residents of the region’s deep cultural and moral foundations.
What to Expect: An Evening of Inspiration and Celebration
Attendees can expect an engaging and uplifting experience. From solo vocalists performing gospel-inspired pieces to groups showcasing modern dance infused with spiritual messages, every act is carefully curated to inspire hope and positivity. During the judges’ deliberation, past champions Ensell and Bove will perform, showcasing how Valley’s Got Talent alumni continue to grow as artists and role models.
The event also strengthens the mission of Sycamore Youth Center, which operates as a hub for youth programs that integrate creativity, mentorship, and education. The center runs dozens of free weekly classes — from art and music to leadership and faith development — making it one of the most active youth outreach organizations in the tri-state area.
Tryout Locations and Timetable
| Date | Location | Time | Target Participants |
|---|---|---|---|
| November 4 | Steubenville Catholic Central High School | 2:45 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. | Students and community youth |
| November 6 | Steubenville High School | 2:30 p.m. – 3:15 p.m. | Local performers aged 13–23 |
| November 13 | Edison High School | 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. | Open regional audition |
| November 15 | Sycamore Youth Center | 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. | Final open audition |
| November 23 | Steubenville High School Auditorium | 4:00 p.m. | Main event and performances |
Participants are urged to arrive 15 minutes before their scheduled slot for registration and sound checks. Each performance should not exceed three minutes, and participants must provide their own instruments or music tracks if required.
A Broader Mission: Cultivating Creativity Across the Ohio Valley
The Valley’s Got Talent competition aligns closely with the Sycamore Youth Center’s ongoing mission to develop young leaders who combine creativity with compassion. The organization serves hundreds of children and young adults across Jefferson County through after-school programs, summer activities, and faith-based community projects.
Key programs include:
- Free music and dance classes promoting artistic growth
- Leadership mentoring for high school students
- Community outreach initiatives supporting low-income families
- Volunteer programs encouraging civic responsibility
The Ohio Valley Youth Network also partners with local churches, schools, and civic groups to ensure accessibility and inclusivity. Its commitment to faith-driven youth development has earned it widespread recognition in the region.
How the Event Boosts Local Engagement
1. Economic and Cultural Impact
Events like Valley’s Got Talent contribute to local economic vitality by drawing visitors to Steubenville, boosting local restaurants, small shops, and hospitality services. The competition also promotes cultural exchange, inspiring neighboring towns to launch similar initiatives.
2. Youth Empowerment
Through music, art, and storytelling, young people find a healthy outlet for self-expression. Participants often report higher confidence, improved teamwork, and greater community belonging after the event.
3. Community Unity
By bridging schools, churches, and local sponsors, the program strengthens the social fabric of the Ohio Valley. Parents, teachers, and business owners all play a role, from sponsoring prizes to volunteering at the event.
Supporting Faith and Family Values Through Art
Valley’s Got Talent serves as a living testament to the belief that art and faith can coexist harmoniously. By integrating spiritual themes with artistic performance, it helps young people discover deeper meaning in their creative pursuits. Organizers emphasize that faith-based art can transcend entertainment, becoming a powerful tool for positive social transformation.
As Bauman notes, “We want every participant to walk away knowing that their talents are a gift meant to inspire others. Whether they win or not, their contribution to this community matters deeply.”
The Power of Local Partnerships
This initiative thrives through the generosity of local partners. Schools such as Edison High, Catholic Central, and Steubenville High provide venues and volunteers, while community sponsors contribute prizes, technical support, and refreshments. The collaboration underscores how public and private sectors can unite to champion youth development.
By bringing together educators, faith leaders, artists, and civic organizations, Valley’s Got Talent stands as a model of grassroots collaboration. Its continued success demonstrates the region’s resilience and shared belief in nurturing the next generation.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Youth Arts in the Valley
Organizers envision expanding the competition’s scope to include digital and multimedia categories in the coming years, such as filmmaking, digital art, and spoken word poetry. This reflects an evolving understanding of creativity in the digital age while remaining grounded in the event’s faith-based roots.
With consistent community support, Valley’s Got Talent could soon become a regional hallmark event, inspiring similar youth showcases across neighboring states. The initiative already serves as a cornerstone of youth outreach programming in Jefferson County, helping young people build both artistic and ethical foundations.
Trending FAQ
Q1: Who can participate in Valley’s Got Talent 2025?
Participants aged 13–23 who live within 35 miles of Steubenville can apply.
Q2: Are group performances allowed?
Yes. Bands, choirs, and ensembles are welcome, but only performers within the age range will be judged.
Q3: How do I register?
Visit sycamorecenter.com/signupinfo to complete the online application before the tryout dates.
Q4: What types of acts are accepted?
Music, dance, drama, and any form of creative expression aligned with positive, faith-centered themes.
Q5: When is the main event?
The final show takes place on November 23, 2025, at 4 p.m. at Steubenville High School Auditorium.
Q6: Is there an entry fee?
No, participation is completely free, thanks to the support of sponsors and volunteers.
Q7: Can families attend the event?
Absolutely. The public is invited to attend, and community turnout is strongly encouraged to support local youth.
Valley’s Got Talent 2025 isn’t just a competition — it’s a celebration of the Ohio Valley’s creative heart. By spotlighting young artists and reinforcing messages of faith and unity, the event continues to shape a brighter, more connected future for the community. For many of these young performers, this stage could mark not just the start of a career, but the beginning of a lifelong calling.
