Our elementary school has a talent show the week before winter break after our association meeting. It's called "The Winter Follies". Auditions are held early in December and the school staff and teachers are great about helping the kids refine their acts, even providing costumes, props, etc. Some of the lower grade teachers have started putting together class performances, too. It's been a big success and as someone else already mentioned, great for the kids self-esteem.
The show is performed once for the students (kind of a dress rehearsal) prior to the evening performance.
We have one every year but just for the "graduates" . We have yet to have a problem with any of the shows re: content, presentation, etc. It's vouluntary but almost all of the kids get up there with something. It's more of a GONG show then a talent show but the kids love it. We do it on the last days of school and let all of the grades come and see. It's a real confidence bulider and great experience to be on stage so young. It's crowded but FUN.
I recently had a parent approach me about including a talent show at our Elementary school (K-5th). In the 6 years that I have been involved, we have never held one. Could anyone give some suggestions and/or ground rules to follow? Thanks.