We accept auditions from all talents and ages: singers, dancers, magicians, instrumentalists, comics, spoken word, variety acts, and more. Because the show has a limited number of spots, HTI will select the strongest acts for show night and notify every auditioning act of its status.

One to two minutes, shot on any phone, sound up. We're judging the talent, not the camera work. Upload the file right in the form, or paste a YouTube/Drive link. Singing? Make sure your vocals are clearly distinguishable over the backing track — we can't judge what we can't hear.

Yes. Audition registration helps fund the show. The 2026 fee is $40 per performer for solo acts and duos, and $55 flat for acts of 3 or more. On the final review step you'll pay through Stripe before you can submit. Audition fees are non-refundable.

Audition fees are non-refundable because they go toward HTI's fundraiser to get more technology to people in need. We truly wish there were enough stage time to accept everyone; if your act is not selected, we encourage you to keep practicing and audition again in the future.

Saturday, September 19, 2026 at McGregor Hall Performing Arts Center in Henderson, NC. Ticket details will be announced. Last season advance tickets were $25.

No. The venue's third-party ticketing platform does not give HTI a reliable way to track ticket purchases by contestant. If you want to support a favorite act directly, you can donate any amount toward that act from the contestants page once profiles are published.

The HUBZone Hero Award is an additional award presented to the contestant who raises the most extra funds for HTI's mission. Supporters can donate toward their favorite act from the contestants page once profiles are published.

Yes. Accepted acts will receive a run-through window before show night to see the stage, confirm AV needs, and check setup details. The exact 2026 rehearsal window will be shared with selected acts.

There is no formal dress code for acts or attendees. Contestants usually choose formal attire or something that sparkles in the stage lights.

Everyone who is not a performer needs a ticket to enter the event. This helps staff prepare for the event size and ensures everyone has a seat. Groups of five or more can receive a discount when tickets are purchased together.

Every dollar goes to HUBZone Technology Initiative, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit (EIN 83-3153294), securely repurposing technology and expanding digital opportunity. Proceeds power the full HTI pipeline: donated laptops are data-wiped to federal NIST 800-88 / DOD standards, rebuilt as HTI Chromebooks, and placed with free digital literacy training in the hands of students, families, veterans, and job seekers across North Carolina. So far that's 3,500+ laptops collected, 2,500+ Chromebooks distributed, and thousands of pounds of e-waste kept out of landfills.