The show must go on, say organizers of the South Whidbey Community Talent Show. This year, though, they a need a financial boost.

A South Whidbey tradition for 20 years, the Community Talent Show is looking for help to cover upfront costs.

Longtime show producer Jean Shaw and Kimmer Morris, her replacement as the show’s producer, have developed a business model where the show’s expenses will be covered by contributions. They are hoping to collect $100 from 25 sponsors.

Morris said they would like to get sponsors to cover some of the up-front costs of the popular annual event.

For their money, sponsors will get preferred seating for four, a mention in the program and a special thanks during the show.

Sponsorships will cover the costs associated with the show, which include stipends for the producer and technical support for lighting and sound.

This theme for the talent show this year is “Cream of the Crop.”

Though last year was Shaw’s final show as producer, this year’s production will feature some familiar faces. Jim Freeman returns as Master of Ceremonies and Conductor of Fun.

The show will be at 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 17 and Saturday, Nov. 18 at the South Whidbey High School auditorium. All ticket proceeds will go to the South Whidbey Schools Foundation to benefit arts programs for students.

The show is a huge attraction on the South End and beyond.

“In the last 20 years we have raised about $25,000 for arts programs in South Whidbey schools,” Shaw said.

The South Whidbey Community Talent Show has featured the South End’s most talented students and staff.

“It’s a tradition, we have to keep it going,” said Shaw, who stepped down last year after serving as producer for 20 years.

The talent show features some of the South Whidbey’s finest talent.

For many of the performers, it’s their only chance to appear in a public performance. But that doesn’t mean the show hasn’t produced some awesome entertainers.

“There were so many talented people through the years,” Shaw said.

Some, like renowned pianist Aaron Parks who plays with the Terence Blanchard jazz band.

“Aaron made his debut at the Community Talent Show,” she said.

In the past, the South Whidbey School District has provided financial support for the show. But in light of the district’s shrinking enrollment, district officials say they are unable to do so this year.

“The South Whidbey School District has reduced staffing and some stipends concurrent with a declining enrollment.

Its ability to offer a continued stipend for this responsibility is not there,” said Superintendent Fred McCarthy.

Anyone interested in becoming a sponsor can contribute to South Whidbey Schools Foundation, a non-profit organization that benefits programs for local students.

The organization can contacted at South Whidbey School Foundation, PO Box 27, Clinton, WA 98236.

Gayle Saran can be reached at 221-5300 or gsaran@southwhidbeyrecord.com.