4-H Performing Arts is a non-competitive event designed to allow 4-H members to exhibit their talent in a fun way. Categories include musical, non-musical, and group. Examples of a 4-H Performing Arts act include singing, dancing, playing a musical instrument, and performing a funny skit to name a few. A limited number of performances at an area event will be invited to perform at 4-H Round-Up. Participation is open to any 4-H member. Mini 4-H members may be part of a group act. Contact your local Purdue Extension Office to learn more. ​

4-H Performing Arts Guidelines​

Audience

4-H Performing Arts participants, grades 3-12. (And mini participants as part of a group act). 6-9 total acts (2-3 per category) will be chosen to perform at 4-H Round Up.


I. Group Acts

Number of performers: five (5) or more performers Performance time limit: 5-8 minutes Types of acts: skits or sketches, choral number, dance routines, lip sync.


II. Curtain Acts: Non-Musical

Number of performers: one (1) to four (4) performers Performance time limit: 3-5 minutes Types of Acts: skits or sketches, magic, clowning, rhythmic gymnastics, reading, 4-H cheerleading routines, choral speaking reading, dance, lip sync, juggling, acrobatic feats, ballads, puppetry, etc.


III. Curtain Acts: Musical

Number of performers: one (1) to four (4) performers Performance time limit: 3-5 minutes Types of Acts: instrumental (piano, guitar, flute, drums, etc.), vocal, bands (rock, country, jazz).

Eligibility

All entertainers must be 4-H members. Narrators are considered part of the act so they must be a 4-H member as well. Please note: An accompanist is not considered part of the act and therefore does not have to be a 4-H member.

Mini 4-H/Exploring 4-H is designed to provide non-competitive educational experiences. We want to give mini/exploring youth a chance to participate in 4-H Performing Arts without the pressure of being judged. These 4-Hers may participate under the following conditions:

  1. A mini-/exploring 4-Her(s) may NOT perform a curtain act.
  2. A group of mini/exploring 4-Hers may NOT perform without older 4-Hers

Application Process

Interested participants will apply electronically and include a link to an Unlisted YouTube video audition. Contact your county educator or Jennifer Abrell, jlabrell@purdue.edu for an application.

Cost: Participants that want to stay overnight will be responsible for paying their own lodging. There is no registration fee.

Description/Objectives of 4-H Performing Arts:

  • To provide an opportunity for youth to perform for an audience where the performer and audience both have fun.
  • To help youth identify talents that they may choose to develop.
  • To share 4-H with others in the community
  • To help youth and adults learn to work as team members for a coordinated activity.

Evaluation Criteria

Copies of score sheets are below. A panel of judges will view the audition videos and apply these criteria.
4-H Performing Arts Scorecards

Optional local or regional contests

A local or regional contest IS NOT required to apply to perform at 4-H Academy / Round-Up. However, local educators may choose to hold a local contest. Contact your county educator for details.

Questions?


Please direct questions to your local educator or to Jennifer Abrell, jlabrell@purdue.edu. Directions for uploading an Unlisted YouTube video are included with the application.