FORT MADISON - It's that time of year again.
You should get a wristband and see this one because it's one of the biggest ever.
The Fort Madison Show Choir's annual Bloodhound Invitational is this weekend and Director Taylor Stoddard says this one is shaping up to be the biggest ever.
Stoddard said this year will involve 25 performances, including three from local groups.
"This gym will be packed the entire day. This year is bigger than most," he said.
"I would say this is our biggest event and fundraiser. Just because it brings in so many people. 16 groups, including our three performances. There will be 25 performances and six groups will perform twice."
The event starts with performances at 9 a.m. with awards being presented at close to 11 p.m. However, the kitchen will be open starting at 8 a.m.
Stoddard said it's the reputation of the event and the level of competition that's bringing so many schools. The event will feature performance levels from middle school to Class 4A.
Southeast Polk is making the trip down and Stoddard said they are one of the most improved squads in the state.
"The competition has grown, and we have a good reputation. We have great judges every year. This runs smoothly and the recent success of Fort Madison show choirs also makes it a great event to be at," Stoddard said.
Fort Madison is having a top-shelf year, as well. Stoddard said the students have really bought into the program and it's showing. He said the Hounds, which compete in 3A, are now starting to hold their own with 4A schools.
"The real difference this year is the kids have really bought in. They've realized if they put in the work, they are going to enjoy it that much more. The hard work makes it more fun. That has allowed us to work on things we haven’t been able to do until this year," he said.
Judges this year will include Jerry Kreitser from Mt. Mercy, Matt Huth from Waukee High School, David Haas of Iowa City West, Michael Reese of Davenport Central, and Mike Esser, a show choir clinician from LaCrosse.
Stoddard said there aren't a lot of competitions scheduled for that weekend, only three across the state, so that's part of the increased draw to the invitational.
Wristbands will be for sale for $10 at the door and Stoddard said there is still room for seating for the event.
"We're gonna pack this gym as full as we can get it."
He said there are still a couple slots left for volunteers, but most of the parents have stepped up to help make the show run smoothly.
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