Local talent shines

NORWALK - The Norwalk Arts Center held it's first community talent showcase on Saturday. The event, called "Imagine: A Community Event" presented multiple musical acts from local artists as well as booths set up from local businesses with different activities. The concert was free, but donations were taken at the door with all the proceeds going back to the Norwalk Arts Center. Riley Mullen, production chair for the NAC said that she wanted to host an event to highlight local talent, especially after seeing performances from her fellow students at Columbian High School in Tiffin. "I've seen other people do this kind of event and I thought it would be fun to do with the arts center," Mullen said. "Especially to give them another opportunity to perform." Mullen has been volunteering with the NAC since 2019, but joined the board as production chair about three months ago. "Riley planned the whole thing, and did a great job," board treasurer Kathleen Sigsworth said. The event highlighted four local acts, including Alex Dominish, Justin Ferstler, Hansen Risley and Natalie Stitak. As well as performances from the Last Call Trio which is comprised of NAC board members, with Sigsworth on bass, Dina Lukasko on flute and Tiina Ruffing on piano. "You kind of go into these things not expecting anything or trying not to expect anything big, but we are really happy with the turnout," Mullen said. "Anyone that comes out, even if it was just one person would be appreciated." Sigsworth also noted that the event went over well with the community, and that they are glad to increase exposure of local talent. It also gave the NAC a chance to show the community how renovation progress of the Norwalk Theatre is going, and highlight other upcoming projects. "We will definitely do it again," Sigsworth said.