On Saturday, Feb. 7, 2026, the Louisa Arts Center held a talent show “Louisa’s Got Talent.” This was the third year that they held the talent show, which they split into two acts, with a 15 minute intermission. The performers came from a wide range of ages, with several winners and honorable mentions being highschoolers.

“I think it’s cool and inspiring to see how much variety of talent we have at the school,” junior Samir Freeman said. “[As well as] how this school and community allows people to do interesting things.”

Some of those who participated this year had partook in past shows. They may have done similar acts, but the specifics of it were not the same.

“I did it a couple years back, but I did a completely different style,” junior Jack Harris said. “I think just switching styles drastically is a good change, because then I can just express myself in different ways.”

Their acts were less so about fitting society’s common perception, and more so about using their talents in a way they liked.

“I’m proud of soloing a bit, I think it’s very inspiring,” junior Lillian Raines said. “Especially being young, challenging the stereotype that girls can’t play electric or rock guitar.”

The talent show is shaped by a close, cooperative community, which led to many individuals participating in the event.

“Last year I went because I knew some other people who were doing it, that was the first year I heard about it,” Freeman said. “I just thought it was a cool opportunity and something I could do well in so this year I participated.”

Ultimately, a large portion of the talent show is seen by individuals not as means to win or be recognized with a placement. Taking place at the Arts Center, the talent show emphasises  a way for artists to show off what they have in a way that feels less like a competition, and more like an artform.

“[It’s] a confident display, if you’re willing to not care about what anybody’s thinking,” Harris said. “I just wanted to express myself out there.”