Registration now is open for the third annual West Georgia Idol competition at the Hogansville amphitheater.

The competition will be held on four consecutive Saturdays beginning July 7 and ending with the finale on Aug. 4.

Registration runs until June 30.

The top prizes include $1,000 cash, a chance to record a demo CD and a performance at the Smith Family Dinner Theater in Pigeon Forge, Tenn.

The West Georgia Idol contest is open to all vocal performers age 14 and above. Residence in the West Georgia area is not a requirement. There is an entry fee of $60, which covers up to four performances, if the performer advances all the way to the finals. The contest serves as a fund raiser for the Hogansville Downtown Development Authority.

No experience is required and for many contestants, the West Georgia Idol contest itself is the first step in the process of gaining experience as a vocal performer. Some contestants do have professional training and some professional experience, but everyone has a chance to win. The judges base their decisions on the performances held during the contest.

All musical styles are welcome, though judges generally recommend choosing songs that accentuate the singer’s personal vocal and performance style. For each performance, the singer may provide background music on a CD, provide their own accompaniment or use other light accompaniment.

Registration, which includes an agreement to follow contest rules, is available at www.westgeorgiaidol.com