OCEAN CITY - It may not be American Idol but the Ocean City Talent Show has been a springboard to bigger things for many local performers.

The Seventh Annual competition is set for Saturday, March 13 starting 6 p.m. at the Music Pier auditorium, Boardwalk and Moorlyn Terrace. Divisions include Instrumental, vocal, Dancing, Performance Art and Best of Show. Tickets are $5.

Show producer and emcee, John Walton, is quick to point out that past winners have enhanced their careers after participating in the event. Talented young magician, Chad Juros, was “discovered” on the Music Pier stage, notes Walton. Because of his outstanding performance, he was booked for First Night and many other area appearances and later featured in Las Vegas, on national television and throughout the country.

Ocean City musician, Rob Swift, was selected for a major motion picture by a producer in the audience and singer-pianist, Andrew Finnerty, graduated to the Tweeter Center and appeared in the independent film, the Protector, after being discovered in Ocean City.

“Last year’s Best of Show winners, The Push Forward Dance Crew, has been contacted by NBC’S Got Talent officials on the West Coast.

“So you see it can happen,” says Walton. “We expect talent scouts and producers to be with us again this year. We’ve also found that young ladies from throughout the area use the show to hone their talents and get stage experience before entering area scholarship pageants and the Miss New Jersey competition.

“But it’s not all about winning or becoming a star. Many youngsters who have not had the opportunity to display their skills receive reinforcement and joy just by being able to perform before a live audience at a legendary venue like the Music Pier.”

The show is open to performers of all ages. There is a $10 entry fee. Those interested may register by contacting ocnjtalentshow2010@yahoo.com or by stopping at City Hall Annex, 901 Asbury Ave., 609-525-9300 or at the show’s sponsors, the Ocean City Fine Arts League, 608 Asbury, 609-814-0308.

Joining Walton to produce the show are Paul Schaeffer, Ocean City businessman; Mark Soifer, City Public Relations Director and Joanne Bernardini, manger of the Ocean City Fine Arts League. All funds raised benefit the Art League’s special events, community outreach and art educational programs as well as City special events and recreation programs.

The contest will be video taped and shown on You Tube.