Submitted by Cynthia Wolf
Singing competition nets winner $10,000 prize; wealth of experience
Musician Lauren Hall has some sound advice for contestants gearing up for the next Big Break contest starting Tuesday, Oct. 8, at Durty Nellie’s: “Believe in yourself; dial in the details; and put in the work.”
Hall should know. The Chicago-based singer, songwriter and pianist emerged victorious during spring’s Big Break, the first to be hosted by Durty Nellie’s Gastropub & Concert Hub, which boasts a concert hall spacious enough to accommodate hundreds of audience members at 180 N. Smith St., Palatine. The contest is coordinated by Big Break Productions, now in its 21st season.
Hall, a former contestant on “The Voice,” said she initially had reservations about the Big Break.
Competing in the Big Break from March until May of this year was, in fact, a tremendously career-enhancing experience, said Hall. It was nerve-wracking, yes, she said, but also cathartic. The judges, who also act as coaches, provided invaluable feedback. The contacts made with others in the music industry — and even the intense rehearsal, wardrobe selection and preparation time necessary to successfully compete — all will continue to serve the full-time musician well going forward. No doubt it will be the case for fall’s competitors, as well, she said.
“Be prepared,” she advised. “Put together a full package.”
Lauren Hall performs during the Big Break in the spring of this year at Durty Nellie’s in Palatine. A new season, the second to take place at Durty Nellie’s, starts Oct. 8. Top prize is $10,000. | Courtesy of Headley Hall
For the upcoming season, after the initial Tuesday event open to all registrants at 6 p.m. Oct. 8, regular performances will take place Thursdays, Oct. 17-Dec. 19, with a week off for Thanksgiving. The first two rounds — Oct. 8 and 17 — are limited to contestants and judges only. Thereafter, on Thursdays from Oct. 24 to Dec. 19 (rounds three through 10), the on-site audience votes. A certain number of singers is eliminated weekly until the field is narrowed to the sole winner, who is awarded a $10,000 prize.
Registration is free for contestants 21 and older. There is no cap on the initial number of contestants. Attendance and on-site voting during Rounds three through 10 also are free. Details are available at www.bigbreakproductions.com.
Event sponsors are sought, added Jim Dolezal, co-owner of Durty Nellie’s.
“This is a chance for local talent to pursue careers in the music industry,” Dolezal said. “It’s also a great opportunity for area businesses to support these emerging artists by sponsoring the contest.”
To inquire about sponsorship, send an email to james@durtynellies.com.
Full music lineup details and tickets are available at durtynellies.com/upcoming-events.