Jessica Gudgell named Orcas Junior Idol

Orcas Idol contestants await their trip up the catwalk to perform on stage Saturday night. Right, Pam Wright joins Arianna and Jason Dean on the benches at the Green Room in the Grange. Below, Conrad Wrobel, Stephen Baker and Kelsey Whitaker put their heads together.


On Saturday, Jan. 24, Jessica Gudgell was selected as Orcas Junior Idol. Jessica performed "Our Song," by Taylor Swift. As winner of the Orcas Junior Idol competition, Jessica is invited to sing at the Orcas Idol performance on Feb. 7 at the Orcas Center.
Now in its fourth year, the Orcas Idol competition, based on the popular television program, American Idol, is the largest fundraiser for the Orcas Island Prevention Partnership Coalition, dedicated to promote healthy lifestyles on Orcas Island. The program is funded by the state and operates through Orcas Island School District.
Also on Saturday, auditions for the adult (high school-age and older) Orcas Idol contestants were held.
From the performances of 12 contestants, Susan Weiss, the father-daughter combo Jason and Arianna Dean, Pam Wright, Yuko Horikawa, Pam Evans, Margie Doyle, Stephen Baker and Conrad Wrobel were selected to enter the three-round Orcas Idol selection process on Feb. 7. Contestants will prepare songs in the Pop/Rock, Country Western and show tunes categories.
Tickets for the event on the Orcas Center main stage traditionally sell out, and overflow crowds can purchase tickets for the live feed in the Madrona Room. Tickets may be purchased at Radio Shack and at Darvill's.
Please note that this year, the Orcas Idol performance begins at 6:30 p.m.