America's Got Talent Auditions Held in Indianapolis

Well, looks like we hit the big time ~ again. Indy 500, Super Bowl 46 and now, "America's Got Talent." Or, at least the auditions. Residents of the Hoosier state can join in to compete for the chance to... compete. Talented Indiana singers, dancers and magicians (just to name a few) will be able to audition at the Indiana Convention Center.

Performers will showcase their particular talent at the downtown Indianapolis location for the opportunity to appear on telelvision for the final $1 million prize top award. NBC's modern-day variety show features animal trainers, contortionists and, well, pretty much any talent. Auditions are 90-seconds and performed in front of the show's producers. Don't expect to see the big names show up for the beginning rounds of qualifications. Those making the cut get the chance to take the stage in front of “America’s Got Talent” celebrity judges: Howie Mandel, Mel B, Heidi Klum and Howard Stern, and host Nick Cannon.

The event takes place from 8 am-7 pm, January 25-26, 2014.

Everry type of talent is welcome. Those interested in registration, full details and requirements, should visit AmericasGotTalentAuditions.com.

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated fine-living, travel, food, wine and spirits columnist, freelance writer and photographer, and performing arts and restaurant critic for Gotta Go. Read Infused, her spirits, wine & beer lifestyle column, at www.GottaGo.us and www.FoodDigital.com and catch her as Indy’s Personal Lifestyle Adviser on Indy Style, WISH8 (CBS). Gotta Go is published on www.Gottago.us, www.BroadwayWorld.com, and in magazines. Follow her on Twitter @GottaGo, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Howie Mandel to Call Cars to Grid 2012 Indianapolis 500

'America's Got Talent' star Howie Mandel

Serves as Honorary Announcer for 2012 Indianapolis 500

INDIANAPOLIS, Saturday, May 19, 2012 - Howie Mandel, judge on "America's Got Talent," the top-rated summer reality competition series on NBC, will serve as honorary announcer for the 96th Indianapolis 500 Mile Race on Sunday, May 27.

On Race Day, Mandel will give the famous command, "All cars to the grid!" to start the countdown to the green flag. His signature humor will put a distinctive spin on a time-honored tradition executed for decades by the legendary "voice of the Speedway," Tom Carnegie.

"I'm very honored to be chosen to call the cars to the grid at this year's Indy 500 ... for the 10th time, this being the first time I've actually gotten to do it on site," Mandel said. "The fans, teams and drivers will be waiting for me to give the command. It'll be an experience of a lifetime that I'll never forget."

Said Jeff Belskus, president and CEO of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Corporation: "This year is the start of the next 100 years for the most important race in motorsports. We're entering this new era with a reinvigorated sport that is intent on evolving with the times. Howie Mandel will bring a unique entertainment value to the race that elevates its profile in a non-traditional arena before potential new fans."

Buy tickets online at www.imstix.com

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her as Indy’s Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC, and follow her on Twitter @GottaGo and Facebook. Gotta Go is published on www.BroadwayWorld.com and in M magazine and the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.