2024 Iowa State Fair Talent Championship

(music)

Abrah Wright: Ladies and gentlemen, we are backstage here at the Anne and Bill Riley Stage getting ready for the Bill Riley Talent Search Championships. They are tapping out their steps, plucking at those keys and warming up their voices, getting ready for a great show.

Travis Graven: And the talent here, we are overflowing with it. So don't go anywhere. Find a comfortable spot. The 2024 Bill Riley Talent Search Championships coming your way in just a moment.

Funding for FAIR 2024 is provided by --

Kwik Star is proud to be a part of Iowa communities across the state. Family owned for over 50 years, we're dedicated to treating our guests, employees, and communities as we would like to be treated.

(music)

Across Iowa, hundreds of neighborhood banks strive to serve their communities, provide jobs and help local businesses. Iowa banks are proud to back the life you build. Learn more at iowabankers.com.

(music)

For Iowa pig farmers, caring for animals is more than a job. It's a way of life and a proud family tradition. Meet the people behind the pork and hear how we care about Iowa too. Learn more at iowapork.org/wecare.

Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. Providing educational resources online and in your county. For you, your family, community, business or farm. 

(applause)

Travis Graven: Welcome to the Anne and Bill Riley Stage here at the 2024 Iowa State Fair. What a beautiful Sunday it is here at the State Fair. I'm Travis Graven.

Abrah Wright: And I am Abrah Wright.

Travis Graven: And we are in for Bill Riley at this year's fair, co-hosting the 2024 Bill Riley Talent Search Championships. And, folks, you are in for a treat today. We have a wonderful show for you. Nine senior finalists will be competing here today. And we have seven Sprout champions who will be wowing us with their talent here on the stage this afternoon as well.

Abrah Wright: Before we get there, though, Travis, we have a distinguished panel of judges here making the tough decisions of who will be our grand champion of the Bill Riley Talent Search Championships. So, without further ado, let's introduce our panel of judges for today. First off is Natasha Overturff Gehrts. She began her dance training in Ankeny, Iowa, and after high school, continued her dance education at the University of Arizona, receiving a BFA in dance in 2012. Upon graduating, Natasha began her career with the world-renowned jazz dance company Giordano Dance Chicago and danced professionally there for ten seasons. During her career, she has worked with and performed with many esteemed choreographers across the country and internationally, as well as teaching young dancers through outreach programs across the globe. After a successful professional career in concert dance, Natasha has returned here to the Des Moines area and is thrilled to share her expertise and a love of the art form of dance with young dancers right here where she grew up. Welcome, Natasha.

(applause)

Travis Graven: Our next judge is Edwin Griffith. Tenor Edwin Griffith made his professional operatic debut with the Nashville Opera under the baton of Kenneth Schermerhorn. Since that time, Edwin has performed throughout the country, performing leading roles with the Bronx Opera, Berks Grand Opera, Glimmerglass Opera, Sarasota Opera, Belmont Opera, Nash's Opera, Rockland Opera, NYC Opera in the Park and right here at the Des Moines Metro Opera. In addition to his operatic performances, Edwin has maintained a very active concert schedule, performing in concert all over the country with the likes of the Nashville Symphony, Delaware Symphony, Delaware Chorale, the Des Moines Choral Society, Westminster Fine Arts, Plymouth Fine Arts, Drake University, and the Des Moines Symphony. Welcome, Edwin Griffith.

(applause)

Abrah Wright: Our third judge is Adrian Oldenburger. Adrian is a demi-soloist with the Stuttgart Ballet in Germany. He started his ballet training in Des Moines, following which he attended the world-renowned schools of Houston Ballet, School of American Ballet, the National Ballet School of Canada, and the John Cranko School in Germany. He is certified as a classically trained ballet dancer by the German state and has eight years of professional experience with the Stuttgart Ballet in Germany. Adrian also has experience teaching, coaching, film acting, and creating professionally performed choreographies. He has performed professionally in hundreds of shows across North America, Europe, and Asia. Lastly, in 2013, he was a Prix des Lausanne selection and the Bill Riley Grand Champion. Welcome back, Adrian Oldenburger.

(applause)

Travis Graven: We also have with us Janice Baker. Janice is an assistant professor in dance at Iowa State University. At ISU, Janice teaches classes in ballet, jazz, modern dance, tap, social and folk dance, pedagogy, elementary and secondary movement education, and rhythm aspects of movement. Janice teaches for the New Visions Dance Project. She is also an associate director of Iowa Dance Theater, which links many area studios in diverse educational and performing activities, one of those being The Nutcracker at the Civic Center in Des Moines. Welcome, Janice Baker.

(applause)

Abrah Wright: Next up is Nicholas Roth. Nicholas is a professor of piano at Drake University, a featured performer and teacher throughout North and South America, Europe, and Asia. Mr. Roth is a Yamaha artist, a fellow of the American Pianist Association. He has earned prizes in chamber music competitions in Italy and has received a DAAD grant to further his studies in Germany. Roth holds a Doctor of Musical Arts degree from Michigan State University and additional performance degrees from Munich, Germany, and Indiana University. Welcome here, Nicholas Roth.

(applause)

Travis Graven: And last but not least, our final judge, J. Matthew Schutt, recently retired after teaching for 35 years in Iowa schools. He's taught instrumental and vocal music in a variety of levels and combinations in the Greene County and Hamilton County school districts. He was one of the first national board-certified music teachers and is a frequent guest conductor, clinician, accompanist, and adjudicator for many honor ensembles and schools in Iowa. He's a city coordinator for the Ambassadors of Music program, just returning from a summer in Austria shortly before the Fair started. And he's no stranger to the Iowa State Fair. Matthew directed the Iowa State Fair Singers, has entered many contests over the years, and manages the Varied Industries Building. Welcome, Matthew Schutt.

(applause)

Abrah Wright: Well, I would say, Travis, we have a great panel of judges to make the decisions on a well-rounded pool of talent that we're going to see here on the Anne and Bill Riley Stage today during the championships. So, I think it's time we get started and introduce our first act. What do you say?

Travis Graven: I think we're ready.

Abrah Wright: All right. How about the crowd? Is everyone ready? 

(applause & cheering) 

Abrah Wright: First up, coming onto the stage, we welcome Josiah Vos. Josiah is 17 years old, representing Sioux City, Iowa. As he gives a wave to the crowd. Josiah is featuring a piano solo today. And as he takes his place at the piano, he is going to be performing Sonata No. 1, Movement 4, by Alberto Ginastera. This is Josiah Vos. 

(music)

Abrah Wright: Absolutely outstanding. That is Josiah Vos representing Sioux City, Iowa very well at 17 years old with his piano solo. Such focus to take on such a difficult piece. Well, done, Josiah, and we are in for another treat. Travis. 

Travis Graven: These youngsters are amazing. They just wow me at -- even after seeing them multiple times this week, they continue to raise the bar here. So, you are in for a wonderful show. Moving along. Our next senior finalist, Sage Minnihan. Sage, an 18-year-old from Onawa. And as she gets into position on stage, Sage is going to be performing a musical theater vocal solo. She will be performing “Right Hand Man”” from Something Rotten. 

If you ever got in trouble

I would be there on the double.

Just to bail you out.

If there's anything you lack,

you know I've always got

your back.

That's what it's all about.

Think of me as your sidekick.

Helping you whenever I can.

I'm more than just a woman,

baby.

When the pressure's coming, baby

Let me be your right-hand man

(music)

But he's not hearing me.

(music)

If you're ever in a pickle.

You can call for me and

quick will be how fast I run.

(music)

You and me should be a team

for any dream or any scheme.

That's how it should be done.

(music)

Sure, I could stay

in the background.

Just smiling every now and again

(music)

But just to be a pretty lady.

That would be a pity, baby.

Let me be your right-hand man.

(music)

I am stronger than you think.

Don't be thinking I ain't tough.

I am where you ought to go.

When the going's getting rough.

So when things are going badly.

(music)

If you're ever in a fix.

And it's a fix you need to nix.

Then I'm your go-to guy.

Even though I'm not a guy.

But don't be so literal!

And don't forget I'm

not a shrinking violet.

A solid rock am I.

So don't be thinking

I'll crumble.

When the you-know-what

hits the fan.

There's no problem

that's too big

when you're married,

that's the gig.

So don't be a sexist pig.

Is it asking too much of you?

It's only because I love you.

Let me be your right.

In fact, I'll show you that I'm

right 

Baby, I'm your right.

Don't put up a fight.

I can be your right.

Starting here tonight.

Let me be your right-hand man.

Let me be your right-hand man.

(applause and cheering)

Travis Graven: Sage Minnihan, ladies and gentlemen. With that musical theater vocal solo. Not only an amazing voice, but that stage presence, bringing that musical theater to us right here at the Iowa State Fair and putting on a show. Sage Minnihan.

Abrah Wright: That was a wonderful performance. And we are going to keep the fun rolling here on Anne and Bill Riley Stage as we introduce Annelise Bell. Annelise is 15 years old from Ottumwa, Iowa. And as she takes her position on the stage, she's going to be performing a contemporary acro dance solo to the selection, “Don't Cry for Me Argentina”. This is Annelise Bell. 

It won't be easy, you'll think it strange

When I try to explain how I feel

That I still need your love after all that I've done

You won't believe me, all you will see is a girl you once knew

Although she's dressed up to the nines

At sixes and sevens with you

(music) 

Don't cry for me, Argentina

The truth is, I never left you

All through my wild days, my mad existence

I kept my promise

Don't keep your distance

(music) 

Have I said too much?

There's nothing more I can think of to say to you

(music) 

But all you have to do is look at me to know

That every word is true

(music) 

(music) 

(music) 

I kept my promise

Don't keep your distance. 

(music) 

(applause & cheering)

Abrah Wright: A beautiful young lady and a gorgeous display of dance. That is Annelise Bell of Ottumwa, Iowa, 15 years old, dancing to Don't Cry For Me, Argentina. That is quite the applause, Annelise, well done.

Travis Graven: The audience loves it, and we have a great crowd here today at the Anne and Bill Riley Stage here at the Iowa State Fair. The weather is gorgeous, and you've all turned out to support these youngsters, so thank you for being here and giving them your loud applause, your cheers, your support as they perform here for you at the Iowa State Fair. Our next senior finalist is Jonah Carney. Jonah is 16 years old from Parkersburg. And as he gets into position, Jonah is going to be performing a vocal solo to a score that I love from The Bridges of Madison County, “Wondering”. Jonah Carney.

(music) 

A little twinge. A little shock.

A little whisper

at the bottom of your memory.

(music) 

A sudden wind. A gentle knock.

And then a rustle in the leaves.

You hold your breath.

You check the lock.

You reassure yourself

there's nothing at the window.

(music) 

But you're wondering.

You're wondering.

You're wondering what that was.

(music) 

But nothing is going to happen.

Nothing is going to happen.

But wouldn't it be fine

to share.

The weather in her eyes,

her hair.

Her footsteps

as she climbs the stair.

The shadow in her light?

(music) 

But everything you know is true.

And everything you want to do.

And everything

that makes you you.

Collides against the night.

(music) 

And nothing is black and white.

(music) 

But you're wondering.

You're wondering.

You're wondering what to do.

(music) 

You're wondering.

You're wondering.

You're wondering if it's true.

(music) 

But nothing is going to happen.

(music) 

Nothing has to happen.

(applause & cheering)

Travis Graven: Jonah Carney, ladies and gentlemen. Wow. Are we on Broadway or are we in Des Moines? Performing Wondering from The Bridges of Madison County Musical. So, he's throwing a little Iowa in there as well. Jonah Carney. 

Abrah Wright: I'd say these young people are doing the original artists and composers proud today with their performances. Our next performance here on the Anne and Bill Riley Stage is Anna Lu looking radiant in her dress. Anna Lu is 16 years old of Johnston, Iowa. She will be playing a piano solo today. And backstage, Anna told me that this is a piece that is celebration and excitement for the future to come. And it really encapsulates the fever of the Fair here at the Iowa State Fair. As she takes her place at the piano, she will be playing today, Concert Etude No. 1, Prelude, by Nikolai Kapustin. This is Anna Lu, 16 years old, of Johnston, Iowa. She's getting settled in, and all of you watching at home, this is going to be a beautiful piece. Anna Lu. 

(applause)

(music)

(applause & cheering)

Abrah Wright: Outstanding job as she takes the center stage again. That is Anna Lu, 16 years old, of Johnston. You can see it at the piano, the joy and emotion in her face, that that means a lot to her and truly is a celebration. Great job, Anna, from Johnston, Iowa.

Travis Graven: I am wowed by these piano players that we have here today. I've been playing the piano for a lot of years. I have never, I guarantee you, been able to play a song like either of these piano soloists that we've seen in competition today. Part of it might be because I don't like to practice, and I suspect that is not the case with these youngsters. They love to practice. They put in hours and hours and hours of practice to be able to get to this point here at the Iowa State Fair, and congratulations to all of them on making it this far. We're going to move along with our next senior, our finalist, Megan Wheelock. Megan is 20 years old from Waterloo. Megan is going to be performing a musical theater vocal solo to “They Just Keep Moving the Line” from SMASH.

(music)

The field was bright

with clover.

I saw the finish sign.

I started as a rover.

And then victory was mine.

I thought the race was over.

But they just keep

moving the line.

(music)

They cheered at my persistence.

But prayed for my decline.

The path of least resistance.

Led to Hollywood and Vine.

I tried to go the distance.

But they just keep

moving the line.

(music)

I jumped all of the hurdles.

To break out of the pack.

I started on the outside.

And then hit the inside track.

I left the other fillies.

Back at the starting gate.

Was ready, on my mark, I

got to set to hurry up and wait.

So talent and ambition.

Won me a chance to shine.

I aced the big audition.

But it's raining on Cloud 9.

Can't beat the competition

because they just keep

moving the line.

(music)

I handled every corner.

Each bump along the track.

And when I saw the ribbon, well.

There was no turning back.

I won the photo finish.

I posed for all the men.

But before I got my trophy.

Well, the race began again.

So I made friends

with rejection.

I've straightened up my spine!

I'll change each imperfection.

Till it's time

to drink the wine!

I'd toast to resurrection.

But they just keep

moving the line!

Please give me some direction

because they just keep

moving the line!

(music)

(applause & cheering)

Travis Graven: Megan Wheelock, ladies and gentlemen. A young lady who, with confidence, commands the stage, and what a voice. Megan Wheelock from Waterloo with that musical theater vocal solo, “They Just Keep Moving The Line”, and they keep moving the line, don't they?

Abrah Wright: They do. And these ladies coming out here on stage, they're going to move another line with some energy and excitement as we welcome out Malia Fuller, 17 years old, of Dexter, Iowa. Ash Van Ness, 18, of Earlham. Charli Harkins, 18, of Van Meter. NiAyla Johnson, 12 years old, of Dexter. And Peyton Tiemeyer, 15 years old, of Earlham. This tap dance quintet is going to be dancing to the “Five Guys Named Moe”. And as they get into position, ladies and gentlemen, hold on to your seats because the energy is about to get you up out of your seats as you're dancing along with them. This is the tap dance quintet dancing to “Five Guys Named Moe”. 

(applause & cheering)

(music)

Let me tell you a story from way back,

Truck on down and dig me, Jack,

There's Big Moe...

little biddy Moe...

four eyed Moe...

No Moe...

Look at brother, look at brother, look at brother,

Eat Moe!

(music)

Who's the greatest band around,

Makes the cats jump up and down,

Who's the talk of rhythm town,

Five guy's named Moe, that's us!

When they start to beat it out,

Everybody jumps and shouts,

Tell me who the critics all rave about,

Five guys named Moe.

We came out of nowhere,

And that don't mean a thing,

We rate high and you'll know why,

When you hear us sing, sing, sing, sing, sing.

High brow, low brow, they all agree,

We're the best in harmony,

I'm telling you folks, you really ought to see,

Five guys named Moe

(music)

(tap dancing)

(music)

Five Guys Named Moe!

(music)

Not one guy!

(music)

Not two guys!

(music)

Not three guys!

(music)

Not four guys!

(music)

But five guys!

(music)

Five little guys named ... 

(music)

Moe, Moe, Moe, Moe, Moe.

That’s us! 

(music)

(applause & cheering)

Abrah Wright: A thunderous applause for that fun-filled group. Malia Fuller, Ash Van Ness, Charli Harkins, NiAyla Johnson, Peyton Tiemeyer, representing Earlham, Van Meter, and Dexter, Iowa. So well, and look at those smiles on their face. You know, I've never tap danced a day in my life, Travis, but this is making me want to go out and maybe buy a pair of tap-dancing shoes.

Travis Graven: You know, they make it look easy, and I guarantee you it's not, right? But what I love about them, the smiles on their faces, the energy, they're loving what they are doing, and that's what it's all about. Yes, they are supremely talented, but they are enjoying putting on a show here for everybody today and sharing their talents with all of us. Wonderful job. Next out to the stage is Caleb Miners. Caleb is 19 years old from Ottumwa. And as Caleb gets into position, he's going to perform a stunning contemporary dance solo to “Black Rainbow”. 

(music)

(applause & cheering)

Travis Graven: Wow, wow, wow. Caleb Miners, ladies and gentlemen, 19 years old from Ottumwa. The third time I've seen that performance this week, and it just continues to awe. Just the sharpness, the movement, and he makes it, again, he makes it look easy, and we know it's not.

Abrah Wright: Absolutely. The strength and athleticism in some of these dancers is just show-stopping. And we have one more show-stopping act here as we close out our senior championship division of the Bill Riley Talent Search today. Waving to the crowd is Lily Schloss. Lily is 18 years old of North Liberty, Iowa, Southeast Iowa. She will be performing a vocal solo to the selection, “I Have Nothing”. This is Lily Schloss taking position on the Bill Riley stage.

(music)

Share my life,

take me for what I am.

Because I'll never change

all my colors for you.

(music)

Take my love,

I'll never ask for too much.

Just all that you are

and everything that you do.

I don't really need to look

very much further.

I don't want to have to go

where you don't follow.

I can't hold it back again.

This passion inside.

I can't run from myself.

There's nowhere to hide.

Your love I'll remember forever.

Don't make me close one more

door.

I don't want to hurt anymore.

Stay in my arms, if you dare.

Or must I imagine you there?

Don't walk away from me, no.

I have nothing, nothing,

nothing.

Don't make me close one more

door.

I don't want to hurt anymore.

Stay in my arms, if you dare.

Or must I imagine you there.

Don't walk away from me.

Don't walk away from me.

Don't you dare walk away

from me, no.

I have nothing, nothing,

nothing.

If I don't have you, you.

If I don't have you, you.

(music)

(applause & cheering)

Abrah Wright: Take a bow, as you should. That is Lily Schloss, 18 years old. Bringing the house down with a final performance to “I Have Nothing”. Such emotion and talent packed into these young people as they pour their heart out on the stage. And the passion is evident in all nine of our senior acts here today, Travis. 

Travis Graven: Supremely talented. I do not envy our judges at all. But that brings us to our first break. We are going to let our judges start tallying their scores and deliberating to figure out our champion. Don't go anywhere though. Much more show yet to come. We're going to showcase our seven Sprout champions coming up in just a moment when we come back with the Bill Riley Talent Search Championship here on Statewide Iowa PBS.

(music)

Travis Graven: Welcome back to the Bill Riley Talent Search Championships here at the 2024 Iowa State Fair. We had seven days of preliminary competition and three days of semi-finals to bring us to today to the championships. We've wrapped up our senior division. Our judges are deliberating. What a difficult decision. And now we come to the Sprouts.

Abrah Wright: And the Sprouts are cute and they are talented, as talented as they are cute, Travis. There are seven Sprout champions that we are going to showcase today and it is a variety of talent, one of which will start us off. He is Luke Justice, 11 years old. Luke, give the crowd a wave. From Urbandale, Iowa, with his bullwhip demonstration. Luke, whenever you're ready, the stage is yours.

(cracks bull whip)

Hi, my name is Luke Justice and I'm going to be showing you all about whips and how they -- 

(cracks whip) 

-- crack. All these whips I've braided, but the first one is called a bullwhip. It's 6 and 1/2 feet long. It has a 12-inch handle and it has 16 strands of nylon paracord that I braided. It goes from 16 strands to 14 strands, to 12 strands, to 10 strands, down in two-strand increments, all the way down to two strands at the very end of the whip. That is called the body. Up next we have the fall. And that's the short piece in between the body and the cracker. And that's -- the cracker is the thing that makes that really loud cracking sound. Now I'm going to show you a little bit about how the whip cracks. So, when you're swinging the whip around like this, it's not cracking until you stop right here and it makes a loop. When you go back on that loop, it throws the loop down the end of the whip, making it go over 950 miles an hour, breaking the speed of sound. And it cracks down by the cracker. When you do it a little bit faster, it sounds like that. 

(cracks whip)

And when you do it really slow, it's like that. So that's called the bullwhip. And I'm going to show you the hybrid whip. 

(applause & cheering)

The hybrid whip is very, very short. It has a longer handle. That makes it easier for beginners to crack. Now I'm going to show you the snake whip. The snake whip is very, very, very, very short. 

(cracks whip)

And it's not very loud at all. But it does not have a rigid handle. That makes it so then you can coil it up and put it in your pocket like that. Now I'm going to show you a few different types of cracks. So, this is a sidearm flick. 

(cracks whip)

This is the underhand flick. 

(cracks whip)

Or actually, that was the overhand flick. This is the underhand flick. 

(cracks whip)

Now I'm going to show you the grand finale.

(applause & cheering)

(cracks whip)

(cracks whip)

(applause & cheering)

Abrah Wright: Take a bow, Mr. Luke Justice, just 11 years old with that bullwhip demonstration, representing Urbandale, Iowa. And this is just evidence, Travis, and to those watching at home, that there is a variety of talent across the state of Iowa. These Sprouts have qualified across almost 70 different shows to get here to the Anne and Bill Riley stage at the Iowa State Fair. Well done, Luke. Thanks for showcasing your talent today, buddy. 

Travis Graven: And as you say, Abrah, proof that you don't have to sing, you don't have to dance. There are many different kinds of talents. And so wonderful here

that the Bill Riley Talent Search can give these young folks an opportunity to display and share those talents with all of us as well. Next out to the stage is Arnav Dervesh. Arnav is 10 years old from Ankeny. And as Arnav gets into position at the piano, we want to remind everybody that our Sprout champions are here to entertain you today and share their talents with us. They are all champions, all seven of them. They're done with the competition at this point in time. So, they're just having fun here and hoping you are having fun enjoying their talents as well. Arnav Dervesh, 10 years old from Ankeny. He will be performing a piano solo, “Crossroads” by Kevin Olson. 

(music)

(applause & cheering)

Travis Graven: Arnav Dervesh, ladies and gentlemen. What a talent on the keys. And again, just wowed by the talent of these young folks. And we are seeing the best of the best here today, ladies and gentlemen. I guarantee you there's a few folks that got left behind that could have made it to the championships. And this is really the cream of the crop that we're seeing here today. 

Abrah Wright: That is definitely an understatement. The field of talent that we've seen throughout the entire Bill Riley Talent Search is certainly one to write home about. And I just love the finesse that those piano players have as they perfect their craft from -- anywhere from the three-year-old's to the 21-year-olds that compete here. Well, we have a veteran

that is coming to the stage now. It is Mara Henn. Mara is 12 years old. She is a West Des Moines native, and as she moves into position, Mara is going to be performing for us a lyrical dance solo to the selection, “Perfectly Loved”. It's Mara Henn. 

(applause)

Who said that you weren't beautiful?

And that you didn't belong in your own skin?

(music)

Who said that you were all alone?

And that you're never gonna find love again?

(music)

So many little words, so many little lies

That have followed you all of your life

Looking for the truth, look into your eyes

And you'll see it's been there the whole time

Ooh, even when you were running

Even when you were hiding

Never been a moment that you were not perfectly loved

When you barely believed it

When your eyes couldn't see it

Every single moment, you've always been perfectly loved

Ooh, perfectly loved

So many open doors 

(so many open doors), 

so many miracles 

(so many)

That have followed you all of your life

Looking for the truth 

(looking for the truth), 

look into your eyes 

(oh)

And you'll see it’s been there the whole time

Ooh, when you barely believed it

When your eyes couldn't see it

Every single moment you've always been perfectly loved

Ooh

You're not a problem

You're not a mistake

Don't need fixing or solving

In the arms of His grace

(music)

You're perfectly human

Made from the dust

You've got a heart, broken and scarred, yet perfectly loved

Oh, even when you were running

Even when you were hiding

Never been a moment that you were not perfectly loved

When you barely believed it 

(when you barely believed it)

When your eyes couldn't see it

Every single moment you've always been perfectly loved

(music)

(applause & cheering)

Abrah Wright: Put your hands together for Mara Henn, 12 years old. Such a raw and emotional performance to the song, Perfectly Loved. And I would say it was perfectly done here on stage. At the Anne and Bill Riley stage of the Bill Riley Talent Search as we're showcasing seven Sprout champions today. They're all winners. They've made it here, and they are in the Hall of Champions for years to come. Travis?

Travis Graven: And we're going to keep things moving right along with our next Sprout champion. It is Gunner Jennings. Gunner is 12 years old from Davenport. And as he gets into position here on stage, Gunner's going to be performing a musical theater dance solo to “The Kite”. 

(music)

Little more speed, little more rope

Little more wind, little more hope

Gotta get this stupid kite to fly

I gotta make sure it doesn't snag

Doesn't droop, doesn't drag

Gotta watch out for every little—oops!

(music)

Little less speed, little more tack

Little less rise, little more slack

Gotta keep my wits about me now

I gotta make sure it doesn't get the best of me

Till I get it in the air somehow

Millions of little kids do it everyday

They make a kite and "poof" it's in the sky

Leave it to me to have the one fool kite

Who likes to see a little kid cry

Little less talk, little more skill

Little less luck, little more will

Gotta face this fella eye to eye

Now that I've seen you chasing moles

Climbing trees, digging holes

Catching your string on everything passing by

Why not fly?

(music)

Wait a minute

(music)

What's it doing?

(music)

It isn't on the ground

It isn't in a tree

(music)

It's in the air!

Look at that

It's caught the breeze now

It's past the trees now

With room to spare!

Oh, what a beautiful sight

And I'm not such a clumsy guy

If I really try

I can really fly a kite!

(music)

(applause & cheering)

Travis Graven: Gunner Jennings, ladies and gentlemen. What a fun number. Wearing me out just watching him. Gunner Jennings, one of our talented Sprout champions. And might not have been dance or vocal. But you, Abrah, have some experience on stages here at the Iowa State Fair as the 2012, right, State Fair Queen?

Abrah Wright: That is correct, yes. I did not have to perform such talent like these Sprouts. But I have been on the Bill Riley stage before and it's an honor to be back to introduce to you some more talent in the Sprouts division of the Bill Riley Talent Search. We've got a smiling and giddy young, eight-year-old here. She is ready to perform for you her piano solo, Faith Eugenia Scott. And as Faith takes her place at the piano, taking a bow, beautiful young girl from Johnston, Iowa, she's going to be taking us on a journey with her title of her piece, “A Journey Through Musical Periods”, a Dussek Sonatina, a Chopin Waltz, and a Persichetti Capriccio. This is Faith Eugenia Scott.

(music)

(applause & cheering)

Abrah Wright: As she takes a bow, that is Faith Eugenia Scott, just eight years old. Showcasing absolutely outstanding talent at the piano with her journey through musical periods.  A Dussek Sonatina, a Chopin Waltz, and a Persichetti Capriccio. Outstanding talent. And I did play piano growing up but I don't think I love to practice as much as Faith did because her talent is amazing.

Travis Graven: At just eight years old, it is absolutely incredible. So, let's take this opportunity to give a shout out to all the teachers, the instructors, the parents, coaches, everybody who has played a part in preparing these young people to be here on the stage, have the confidence pursuing their passions and doing what they're doing here and sharing it all with us here at the Iowa State Fair. It's absolutely wonderful to see. We've had a variety here, folks, in the championships. And that's going to continue right now. We have a stand-up comedian joining us on stage, Micah Rusch. A 10-year-old from Cedar Falls. Micah tells me his idol is Jim Gaffigan. And he's working on continuing to build up his library of jokes here. So, Micah, the stage is yours.

(applause & cheering)

Stop, stop! Don't clap yet!

What if I'm not any good?

You'll want a refund on your clapping. It's great to be here. I love summer fairs like this. I like all the fair food. Whatever it is, they just deep-fry it and we eat it! But there is a limit. Deep-fried Oreos? Delicious. Deep-fried Twinkies? Oh, yeah. Deep-fried butter? Whoa-ho-ho-ho-ho that's crossing the line, America. Have you ever tried those? I can only choke down like two of those things. But my mom is telling me we need to eat healthier. So, she took us to Subway the other day. But is Subway actually a healthy place to eat? They'll start you off with that whole loaf of bread. And then you get your triangle of cheese. And then you pick out that meat that's so thin it's almost see-through. Sometimes they'll ask you if you want it toasted. And if you say yes, they'll slide it into that toaster oven they stole from some guy's dorm room. Eat fresh. But I do try to eat healthy. I exercise. I've been watching sports on TV and learned new ways to exercise. Have you seen that speed-walking thing they do in the Olympics? I don't know if anyone here's a speed-walker. But if you are, just so you know, you look ridiculous. It's like some kid that's been told not to run around the pool. No running. I'm not running. 

(laughter)

I do like to watch sports on TV, I find it relaxing. My mom watches true crime to relax. Just so you know, that's scary. No, let me rephrase, that's horrifying. To know that your mom watches true crime to relax. Tell you what, I'm not about to break her rules. She knows like a dozen ways to hide a body. I knew I was in trouble the other day because she did that thing where she says both my names. You know, the Micah John. Don't you run away from me. I'm not running. Hey, thanks everyone. My name's Micah and that's my time. 

(applause & cheering)

Travis Graven: Micah Rusch, ladies and gentlemen. What a treat here at the Bill Riley Talent Search Championships. Just again, showing everybody that whatever your talent may be, you hone that talent. You come to the stage with confidence and you perform and you've got a shot here at the Bill Riley Talent Search.

Abrah Wright: He certainly had me laughing, Travis. And I think, you know, we've had some comedic acts in the Grandstand. So maybe we need to watch out for Micah. He might be up there someday. 

Travis Graven: He's on his way up.

Abrah Wright: That's right. Well, we have one more performance for you today to showcase our Sprout champions. And this is going to be a fun one to end us off with. It's Ben Shuput. Ben's 13 years old and he is representing locally very well, a Des Moines native. Ben's going to give us a hip-hop dance solo. And as he moves into position, Ben has selected the song “Closer”. This is Ben Shuput. 

(applause & cheering)

(music)

Closer, closer, closer, closer 

Woo!

(music)

Turn the lights off in this place

And she shines just like a star

And I swear I know her face

I just don't know who you are

Turn the music up in here

I still hear her loud and clear

Like she's right there in my ear

Telling me that she wants to own me

To control me

Come closer! 

(Come closer!)

Come closer!

And I just can't pull myself away

Under her spell I can't break

I just can't stop 

(I just can't stop)

I just can't stop 

(I just can't stop)

And I just can't bring myself away

But I don't want to escape

I just can't stop 

(I just can't stop)

I just can't stop 

(I just can't stop)

I just can't stop

And I just can't pull myself away

Under her spell I can't break

I just can't stop 

(I just can't stop)

I just can't stop 

(I just can't stop)

I just can't stop 

Come closer!

(applause & cheering)

Abrah Wright: With the smooth moves and ending our show of the Sprouts, that is Ben Shuput, 13 years old. Giving a wave to all of his fans in the crowd. Doing Des Moines, Iowa proud. Wonderful job, Ben, and what a packed agenda of talent we've had here on the Anne and Bill Riley stage today. 

Travis Graven: It is -- our cup is overflowing. It has been wonderful to see all these young people performing, sharing their talents with us. And we have some awards to give away. I see some ribbons and trophies over there. So, our awards ceremony is coming up. Don't go anywhere. We're going to take a short break and we'll be right back with the Bill Riley Talent Search Championships here on Iowa PBS.

(music)

Funding for Fair 2024 is provided by --

Kwik Star is proud to be a part of Iowa communities across the state. Family-owned for over 50 years, we're dedicated to treating our guests, employees, and communities as we would like to be treated.

Across Iowa, hundreds of neighborhood banks strive to serve their communities, provide jobs and help local businesses. Iowa banks are proud to back the life you build. Learn more at iowabankers.com.

For Iowa pig farmers, caring for animals is more than a job. It's a way of life and a proud family tradition. Meet the people behind the pork and hear how we care about Iowa too. Learn more at iowapork.org/wecare.

Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. Providing educational resources online and in your county. For you, your family, community, business, or farm.

(music)

Travis Graven: Welcome back to the Anne and Bill Riley stage at the 2024 Iowa State Fair, and the Bill Riley Talent Search Championships. And what a day it has been. We've seen so many talented young people grace this stage. Now it's time for some awards. 

Abrah Wright: Yes, and an exciting time it is. We first get to introduce, again, our Sprout Champions. Each of these Sprout Champions receive $500 for making it to the Sprout Champions stage. Congratulations to each one of you. And it's a pleasure to introduce them one more time. First is Luke Justice. He's 11 years old, of Urbandale, Iowa. He performed his bullwhip demonstration. Give a wave, Luke, to the crowd. 

(applause & cheering)

Abrah Wright: Secondly was our Arnav Dervesh, 10 years old, piano soloist from Ankeny, Iowa, performing “Crossroads” by Kevin Olson. 

(applause & cheering)

Abrah Wright: Next up, Mara Henn. She's a 12-year-old, representing West Des Moines, Iowa. She performed her lyrical dance solo.

(applause & cheering)

Abrah Wright: And then we had a musical theater dance solo. Gunnar Jennings, also 12 years old from Davenport, with “The Kite”. 

(applause & cheering)

Abrah Wright: Another pianist, Faith Eugenia Scott, just eight years old, from Johnston, Iowa. And a beautiful piano solo it was indeed. Then we had that variety of talent coming in. Our stand-up comedian, Micah Rusch. Ten years old, of Cedar Falls, Iowa. Representing Northeast Iowa very well. 

(applause & cheering)

Abrah Wright: And finally, Ben Shuput, of Des Moines, 13 years old. Our hip-hop dancer to close out our show. Congratulations to our Sprout champions. They represented the state of Iowa well here at the 2024 Iowa State Fair and the Bill Riley Talent Search Championships.

Travis Graven: And now we want to welcome to the stage a couple of special guests to share a few words with you before we get to our Senior Division Championship results. I want to bring out Jeremy Parsons, the CEO and Manager of the great Iowa State Fair. Jeremy?

Jeremy Parsons: Thank you. Thank you. What a great Iowa State Fair we have had so far. And we're not done. Obviously, the Bill Riley Talent Search Finals are a staple here on the last day. But when you really think about the Iowa State Fair, it's a celebration of all the really good things that are happening in our state. And I think you would agree that the talent you've seen here gives me hope that we've got a great future ahead not only in our state, but in our country. So, thank you for attending the Iowa State Fair. Thank you for supporting these talented young artists. And we'll get to the final results right now. 

Travis Graven: Coming right up. And you're responsible for the wonderful weather we've had, right, Jeremy?

Jeremy Parsons: That is correct. I will take full credit for the weather this year. Now, last year on this day, I do not take credit for that, for sure.

Travis Graven: Everyone was melting last year out here on the stage. We're glad it's not that way today. And we want to welcome to the stage, Darwin Gaudian. Darwin's the President of the Iowa State Fair Board. Hailing from O'Brien County. Darwin?

Darwin Gaudian: Welcome everybody. On behalf of the Fair Board, I want to thank everybody that's came to the Fair this year. We've set a few records and it wouldn't have happened without you fairgoers that come to the Fair. I want to wish Bill Riley a quick recovery from his little health scare. And I want to thank the group that stepped in to fill in. And you made an awesome Bill Riley contest. So, let's find out who won.

Travis Graven: All right. We started with about 70 community talent shows all across the state. Those folks came here to the fair. We had seven days of preliminary competition, three days of semi-finals. And today, championship day, here we are. It's time to find out the results.

Abrah Wright: That's right. And we also are going to welcome to the stage our 2024 Iowa State Fair Queen, Elli Blackford of Clark County. 

(applause & cheering)

Abrah Wright: Beautiful, gracious. She represents the ideals of Iowa and we're proud to have her representing the Iowa State Fair this year as queen. She's going to help Darwin with presenting the awards this afternoon. So, let's get to them ladies and gentlemen. Our fifth-place winner. 

Travis Graven: Tucked away in the envelope.

Abrah Wright: That's right. Receiving $750, it is Anna Lu with her piano solo. 

(applause & cheering)

Abrah Wright: Anna Lu, ladies and gentlemen. Sixteen years old of Johnston, Iowa. Absolutely radiant. And such a celebratory performance she gave with her piano solo.

Travis Graven: In fourth place, receiving $1000, Sage Minnihan. Musical theater vocal solo, Sage Minnihan. Congratulations.

(applause & cheering)

Abrah Wright: In third place receiving $2500, Megan Wheelock. The musical theater vocal soloist of Waterloo, Iowa. Look at that smile. A proud third place winner here at the Bill Riley Talent Search Championships.

(applause & cheering)

Travis Graven: All right I can feel the nerves as we get down to the final couple here. In second place and receiving $5000, Josiah Vos. Piano solo from Sioux City. Congratulations, Josiah.

(applause & cheering)

Abrah Wright: And ladies and gentlemen, your first place grand champion of this year's Bill Riley Talent Search Championships, receiving $10,000, a ribbon, and a trophy. Lily Schloss. The vocal soloist who brought the house down with her finale. And a grand finale it was indeed. Just 18 years old. Lily Schloss everybody. 

(applause & cheering)

Abrah Wright: Our Bill Riley Talent Search grand champion. The emotion says it all. The heart and the hard work that these young people pour in each and every day to practice and perfect their talents is shown right here with these championships today. Congratulations to all of our finalists and to all of our winners. What a great show it's been. 

Travis Graven: It has been fantastic. And thank you all for joining us as well. Congratulations one more time to Lily Schloss. For Bill Riley Jr., for Abrah Wright, for our entire Iowa PBS production crew here at the 2024 Iowa State Fair, I'm Travis Graven. So long from the Bill Riley Talent Search Championships. We'll see you back here next year.

(music)

Share my life,

take me for what I am.

Because I'll never change

all my colors for you.

(music)

Take my love,

I'll never ask for too much.

Just all that you are

and everything that you do.

I don't really need to look

very much further.

I don't want to have to go

where you don't follow.

I can't hold it back again.

This passion inside.

I can't run from myself.

There's nowhere to hide.

Your love I'll remember forever.

Don't make me close one more

door.

I don't want to hurt anymore.

Stay in my arms, if you dare.

Or must I imagine you there?

Don't walk away from me, no.

I have nothing, nothing,

nothing.

Don't make me close one more

door.

I don't want to hurt anymore.

Stay in my arms, if you dare.

Or must I imagine you there.

Don't walk away from me.

Don't walk away from me.

Don't you dare walk away

from me, no.

I have nothing, nothing,

nothing.

If I don't have you, you.

If I don't have you, you.

(music)