After a much-anticipated wait, the Southern Cultural Heritage Foundation is back on track to present the first Raise the Roof Talent Search and Competition.

The talent show will leave one lucky winner walking away with $1,000, and the Southern Cultural Heritage Foundation will be closer to its fundraising goal for a new roof. It’s a win-win.

Originally scheduled for August, the event had to be rescheduled for February due to a number of conflicts. Now, executive director Stacey Massey said they’re ready.

Massey said organizers are looking for more participants. Contestants of all ages are invited to compete in the categories of voice, music, dance, drama and comedy.

Registration is open now and will continue through Feb. 12. Entry fees are $10 for individuals and $30 for groups of three or more.

The preliminary competition will be held Feb. 20 at 6 p.m., followed by the semi-final competition Feb. 21 at 2 p.m.

The talent competition finale will be Feb. 27 at 6 p.m. All competitions will be held in the SCHF Auditorium.

Cash prizes will be awarded to each category winner, and all category winners come together to compete for the Overall Cash Grand Prize of $1,000.

Tickets to each show are $15 for adults, $5 for youth (ages 6-18). Admission for children 5 and under is free.

“Proceeds will go to support the roof rehabilitation of the SCHF,” Massey said, adding they have secured a grant, but still need to raise more than $30,000 on their own for roof replacements and repairs.

The SCHF, a non-profit organization, maintains the Southern Cultural Heritage Center in Vicksburg, Mississippi. The Center is a Mississippi Landmark property and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Foundation is committed to preserving the history and architecture of the Cultural Center, while offering cultural, artistic and educational programs for the community.

Sponsorship opportunities are available. For more information or to register, visit www.southernculture.org or call the Southern Cultural Heritage Foundation at 601.631.2997.