The Winlock Dance Center will be holding the “Positive Personality Pageant” on Saturday, April 13, a first-of-its-kind event for the youth of Lewis County.
The pageant will focus on positive attitudes and humble work ethics. Contestants will not be judged based on appearance or attire.
“I took inspiration from all of the local town pageants like Egg Days, Apple Festival, Morton Jubilee and even Miss Lewis County,” event organizer and Winlock Dance Center owner Robin Brumley said. “These events bring out the best candidates of our community and give them an opportunity to shine.”
Brumley said she wanted to take the existing idea of a pageant and give it a twist. She said it is an opportunity for contestants to practice skills that will help them in future life applications, such as applying to colleges and jobs.
“The biggest difference is that this is open to boys as well, since our pageant will focus more on interview and essay writing skills,” Brumley said.
The in-person interviews and essay writing will be the sole basis for judging. Contestants will also need a letter of recommendation along with the initial application.
“There will be a separate optional talent competition the evening before the pageant,” Brumley said.
The Positive Personality Pageant will be a two-night event beginning on Friday, April 12, for the talent showcase. The main pageant show will be at 5 p.m., April 13, at the Winlock Community Building. Brumley stressed that while other pageants require additional participation for contestants, such as attending parades throughout the summer, there are no further commitments for this pageant beyond the two-evening event.
“Selected contestants will have an opportunity to read their essay up on stage about how their positive personality has had an impact on their community, school group, sport, family life and more,” Brumley said. “The next section will be on stage short interview questions to get to know more about them.”
There are three age groups for girls and boys: 7-10, 11-14 and 15-18 years old, and a runner-up award will be given as well.
Winners will be crowned and receive a sash and $250 in cash.
“The goal of this event is to practice life skills that will further enhance their chances of getting accepted into colleges and pursuing their future careers,” Brumley said. “Asking for letters of recommendation, essay writing and public speaking are important building blocks for success.”
Brumley said she hopes to get participation from those who otherwise might not feel as comfortable wearing certain styles of attire or possessing a particular talent. Brumley hopes the event promotes positive self-esteem and confidence.
The contest is open to boys and girls residing in Lewis County.
Winlock Dance Center will host the event, but to be fair to all participants, judges will come in from outside the region to select the winner.
Applications to enter the pageant can be found at winlockdancecenter.com and the entry deadline will be April 5. Brumley can be reached at robin@winlockdancecenter.com.
