Carlow County Council – Streetfest Busking Competition Unveiled.
Lower Tullow Street will come alive with music, magic, and mesmerising performances as Carlow County Council proudly presents Streetfest Busking Competition taking place on select dates throughout April, May, and June 2024, this thrilling competition invites local talent to showcase their skills and entertain audiences from 11:30 AM to 4:30 PM each day.
Buskers of all kinds – musicians, dancers, magicians, and more – are encouraged to participate. To enter, performers must register with a member of the Carlow County Council Team prior to their performance and provide their location for the creation of a video for judging. The Carlow County Council – Streetfest Busking Competition runs on the following dates, Friday 12th April 2024/Saturday 13th April 2024 /Friday, 3rd May 2024/Saturday 4th May 2024/ Friday 10th May 2024/Saturday 11th May 2024/Friday 31st May 2024/Saturday 1st June 2024/Friday 7th June 2024/ Saturday,8th June 2024 from 11.30am-4.30pm on each day.
Each day, performers will compete for the chance to win a €100 voucher prize from any retailer in Lower Tullow Street. Additionally, an overall winner will be selected from the participants of all competition days and awarded a grand prize of €300, while a public vote prize of €200 will also be awarded.
Cllr. Andrea Dalton, Cathaoirleach of Carlow County Council said “I’m really looking forward to this element of the Streetfest Programme. For me, Busking embodies the essence of community, where artistry meets the public, enriching our streets with culture and creativity. It's a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of expression, reminding us that talent knows no boundaries”.
Speaking about the competition, Linda Culleton, Economic Development Officer said, “As we launch this busking competition, we're not just celebrating local talent; we're embracing the heartbeat of our streets”. Linda continued to say “Join us in embracing the vibrant spirit of busking! Whether you're a seasoned performer or just starting out, let Lower Tullow Street become your stage. Share your passion, connect with your community, and let your talent shine bright for all to see”.
Welcoming the competition, Mayor of Carlow Municipal District, Cllr. Tom O’Neill said “As Mayor of Carlow, I am thrilled to welcome the upcoming busking competition to our vibrant town. This event not only showcases the immense talent within our local community but also fosters a sense of unity and celebration among residents and visitors alike. I encourage all aspiring musicians and performers to take part”.
For more go to www.carlow.ie or call 059/9129783
For further information contact Linda Culleton on 059/9129783 or e-mail enterprise@carlowcoco.ie
Busking Competition Overview:
The Carlow County Council – Streetfest Busking Competition runs on the following dates , Friday 12th April 2024 / Saturday 13th April 2024 / Friday - 3rd May 2024/ Saturday - 4th May 2024 / Friday - 10th May 2024 / Saturday - 11th May 2024/ Friday 31st May 2024 / Saturday - 1st June 2024 / Friday - 7th June 2024 / Saturday - 8th June 2024 from 11.30am-4.30pm on each day.
Each Day Busking will be from 11.30am-4.30pm.
Buskers must register with a member of the Carlow County Council Team prior to commencement and advise on the location so a video of their performance can be created for judging.
Prize Fund is as follows:
- 12th-13th April - €100 voucher prize for any retailer in Lower Tullow Street
- 3rd-4th May - €100 voucher prize from any retailer in Lower Tullow Street
- 10th-11th May - €100 voucher prize from any retailer in Lower Tullow Street
- 31st May-1st June - €100 voucher prize for any retailer in Lower Tullow Street
- 7th-8th June - €100 voucher prize for any retailer in Lower Tullow Street
- Overall Winner - €300 prize for any retailer in Lower Tullow Street
- Public Vote Prize - €200 prize for any retailer in Lower Tullow Street
The following are the competition rules:
Eligibility: The competition is open to solo performers, duos, or groups of up to five members. The competition is open to all ages but people under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian.
Registration: Performers must register in advance to participate in the competition. Registration forms must be completed on the day.
Performance Locations: Performances will take place at designated busking spots within the competition area which is Lower Tullow Street. Each performer or group will be assigned a specific location until their video is recorded by a member of the economic development team.
Performance Duration: Performers can busk for any duration within the competition hours.
Performance Content: Performers are free to showcase any talent or skill during their performance, including music, dance, comedy, magic, etc. However, all performances must be family-friendly and appropriate for audiences of all ages.
Equipment and Props: Performers are responsible for providing their own equipment, instruments, and props. Any special requests for equipment must be approved by the competition organisers in advance.
Judging Criteria: Performances will be judged based on several criteria, including talent, originality, audience engagement, and overall entertainment value. Judges' decisions are final. Prizes will be presented on the week following the performance date. The overall winner and public vote winner will be invited to a presentation.
Audience Interaction: Performers are encouraged to interact with the audience during their performance. However, performers should not disrupt pedestrian traffic or impede the flow of foot traffic in the competition area.
Prizes: Prizes are in the form of gift vouchers and the winner can specify which store in Lower Tullow Street they want the prize. This is subject to that store having an official gift certificate. Generic Love Carlow Vouchers can be provided also.
Code of Conduct: Performers must conduct themselves in a respectful and professional manner at all times during the competition. Any inappropriate behaviour or language will result in immediate disqualification.
Safety Guidelines: Performers must adhere to all safety guidelines and regulations outlined by the competition organisers. This includes maintaining a safe distance from any electrical outlets or other potential hazards.
Photography and Recording: Photography and recording of performances are allowed for personal use only. Any commercial use of photographs or recordings must be approved by the performers.
Disqualification: The competition organisers reserve the right to disqualify any performer who violates the rules or engages in unsportsmanlike conduct.
