INDIANAPOLIS – Could the next Kelly Clarkson be discovered at this year’s Indiana State Fair? People can judge for themselves as the fair is now accepting video entries for its first-ever “Vocal Throwdown” competition that will crown one champion in each of two divisions.

The contest is open to any non-professional performer who is 21 years old or younger and a current Indiana resident. The Junior division consists of anyone ages 6 to 15; the Senior division is for anyone ages 16 to 21. A non-professional is defined as anyone who is not a practicing professional making his or her livelihood through musical performing, including anyone who might have a manager, music recording contract or an agreement relating to the use of his or her name or likeness.

To enter, competitors need to submit an audition video no longer than five minutes through the Indiana State Fair web site or through the fair’s official Facebook page. Today is the first day for entries, which will continue to be accepted through June 28.

From July 5–21, all submitted videos will be featured on the Indiana State Fair Facebook page where people will be able to vote for their favorite entries. The top 10 vote-getters in each division will be invited to perform on the State Fair’s Main Street Stage on Saturday, Aug. 3, where they will sing before a panel of judges. The judges will pare down the competitors to five finalists who will perform again on Aug. 10 when a champion will be crowned.

The winners in each division will receive $500 and a trophy. Second place finishers will receive $250; third place finishers receive $100. There is no cost to enter. A complete list of contest rules and requirements can be found online.

The Indiana State Fair runs Aug. 2–18.