Tops in Blue entertains Aviano audiences

Tops in Blue performers entertains Aviano Airmen and civilians Sept. 29 during one of two base performances as part of their 2008 "Deja Blue" tour. Tops in Blue travels all over the world to give free entertainment to the Air Force and their families. This is the 55th Anniversary for Tops in Blue, which serves as an expeditionary entertainment unit, traveling the globe and performing for thousands. This year's cast of singers, musicians and behind-the-scenes crews will perform almost 100 shows by the end of the tour. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Taylor Marr)

Tops In Blue talent search underway

Published Nov. 14, 2008

RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Tops In Blue, the Air Force's premiere entertainment showcase, is accepting applications until Dec. 2 for its 2009 talent search.

The 2009 talent call, called MISSION AUDITION, encourages vocalists, instrumentalists, dancers, and nonmusical talent such as comedians, dramatists, and magicians to submit an application and audition video. Airmen with skills in audio, lighting, staging, video, and even driving, are also being recruited. All Air Force active-duty, Reserve, and Guard members are eligible to compete.

Top applicants will vie for first and second place trophies, fondly called "Roger and Wilco," during the Air Force Worldwide Talent Search Competition Jan. 11-19 at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas. In addition to the trophies, contestants compete in various performing arts programs that include dance and musical auditions. These special events, along with the contest, will help officials evaluate the talent potential of each contestant for possible nomination to the 2009 Tops In Blue team.

Fifty-five years ago, the Air Force Talent Program began with local auditions. Today, the process is streamlined to expedite and expand auditioning opportunities.

As part of this streamlining effort, Air Force Entertainment recently created a new Tops In Blue Web site that is designed to attract the Internet-savvy generation.

"It's all about keeping up with the times and connecting with our audience and potential talent pool," said Tom Edwards, chief of Air Force Entertainment at the Air Force Services Agency in San Antonio.

The new site gives Airmen an easy way to submit their talent application, upload their audition video and receive confirmation that their application is in the system, said Mr. Edwards.

"The new site is key to the successful infusion of new talent into our program," he said. "Since launching it, there has been a huge increase in interest and applications."

To apply, go to http://www.afsv.af.mil/, then Services and click on Tops In Blue at the bottom. For more information, call (210) 652-6566.