ELKINS — The 87th Mountain State Forest Festival will showcase the fan-favorite competition, Elkins’ Got Talent, on Tuesday at 7 p.m. at the Rotary Amphitheater in Elkins Town Square.

The event allows community members and visitors to share their talents, ranging from singing, dancing, magic, comedy and more. In addition, participants will have the chance to win cash prizes and plaques.

Having debuted at the festival in 2019, Elkins Got Talent has been a fan favorite since. For example, in 2023, the competition was fierce, with first place going to Geno Austin on saxophone performing “Mustang Sally”, second place to Callie Casto’s dance performance of “Ashes”, and third place to Lily Smart’s singing of “Rise Up” by Andra Day, to name a few.

Those who are interested in participating in this year’s talent show can fill out a form on the Mountain State Forest Festival website.

Additionally, those interested in performing must submit an entry fee along with their form. Entry forms will be accepted until 6 p.m. on the day of the event, Tuesday. Contestants will need to report to the registration table by 6:30 p.m.

During the show, contestants will be given five minutes to set up and perform and are not allowed to exceed seven minutes. The Mountain State Forest Festival will provide a sound system for contestants.

Contestants must provide someone who can play music if it’s on a phone, as sound technicians are not allowed to use personal devices. The judges will be judging “on stage presence,” “professionalism,” “audience engagement,” “originality” and “vocal/instrumental tone quality,” with each category ranging from 1 to 10 points.

Lisa Shaffer, the 2025 Forest Festival Director General, is excited about this year’s festival. Having attended Beverly High School and graduated from West Virginia University, Shaffer has served as the executive director of the Randolph County Housing Authority, as well as serving on the board of directors for the West Virginia Association of Housing Agencies and the HomeOwnership Center, Inc.

The festival holds a special place in Shaffer’s heart and her family, as her father has participated heavily in volunteering and chairing the event for many years, and her husband Ben served as Director General of the 78th Festival.

Her niece, Haleigh Riggleman, was the Flower Girl in 2013 and a Princess in 2022, along with her other niece, Sarah Riggleman, serving as a Maid of Honor in the 84th festival.

Shaffer said, “I am thrilled to work alongside such a talented and dedicated group oassistant directors and Executive Director Heidi Bray to deliver a festival that everyone will enjoy and remember. The success of this festival relies on the partnerships and support from so many, and we could not make the week a success without all of our incredible community partners. Thank you all for your dedication and support.”