PORTAGE | Portage Community Theatre has enlisted Nicole Jamrose, who rose to national acclaim as one of three finalists on the TV show "Nashville Star," as the celebrity performer for its Winter Showcase Talent Show.

The talent show, in its third year as a winter showcase, begins at 7 p.m. Friday in the Portage High School West auditorium, 6400 E. U.S. 6. Admission is $5, and tickets are available at the door.

Organizers wanted "to think big" for this year's production, said Janet Hagan, who handles public relations for Portage Community Theatre. In previous years, the group has turned to the reigning Portage Junior Miss or the previous talent show winners as the celebrity performers.

"We thought we would try to get somebody with a name," she said.

Jamrose, a Northwest Indiana resident, shot to fame with her appearance in 2006 on the USA network's reality show. She was chosen from more than 20,000 applicants nationwide as one of the 10 contestants for "Nashville Star."

During Friday's show, she will perform at the end of the program as the judges are tallying their votes. She also will talk about her career experiences.

The talent show will be similar to another reality television show, Hagan said.

"It appears it's going to be more of an 'American Idol' night," she said. "There's a lot of singing."

Besides singer, the show will feature dancers and someone playing a clarinet.

Performers will compete in three categories: youth, teen and adult. Trophies and ribbons will be awarded in each category. Judges include Dr. Steven Holm, Lynn Reed, Joel Justin and Emily Sadoris.

Last year's talent show winner, Debra Hampton, will open the show with a song.

"It should be a good show," Hagan said. "We have some very talented singers."

For information, call (219) 759-1408.