Shrewsbury Idol finalists take stage Sept. 30

Robino Africa, winner of the 2006 Shrewsbury Idol contest, croons during an encore performance at last year's event.

Shrewsbury - The spotlight is ready to shine on local singers during the Spirit of Shrewsbury (SOS) when the finalists for "Shrewsbury Idol" take to the stage Sunday Sept. 30.

The star potential will be higher than ever before. Not only will friends, family and neighbors be watching, but also a representative from the American Idol organization will attend, according to SOS officials.

Six finalists will vie for the title live at the Oak Street Middle School auditorium beginning at 6 p.m. The audience will help choose Shrewsbury Idol 2007.

The finalists were chosen from 12 contestants during a preliminary talent show Sept. 23.

Just like viewers of the recent American Idol season, the audience will have a chance to help others. Organizer Art Dobson said that while admittance is free, the audience will be able to make donations to Shrewsbury Youth and Family Services and the Westborough Food Bank.

SOS Grand Marshals Sue Falzoi, Sue DiLeo and Joyce Perreault will be introduced on the stage by State Rep. Karyn E. Polito, R-Shrewsbury, at 6:15. The Idol competition will be preceded at the school by Dessert Night from 5 to 6 p.m.; desserts will be available for tasting and purchase.

The SOS Fall Festival runs from Friday Sept. 28 through Sunday Sept. 30, with family-oriented events throughout the weekend. Friday activities include an Open House and art exhibit at the Senior Center and a Harvest Fest at Floral Street School. Saturday events include a pancake breakfast and fishing derby, a road race, a craft fair, an Expo at Oak Middle School, and more.

In addition to the Idol competition, Dessert Night, and a Family Fun Fest at Oak Middle, Sunday's festivities include the parade at 1 p.m., starting at the Beal School.

For more information, visit www.spiritofshrewsbury. com.