Auditions for CTV telethon happen this weekend

People across northern Ontario are getting ready to audition to be part of the 74th edition of the CTV Lions Children’s Christmas Telethon.

"About 100 people have signed up to audition for the telethon," said Tony Jurgilas, audition panelist.

"We are looking for a wide variety of performers, choirs and dance troupes."

Jurgilas has been a part of the telethon for 44 years, including more than three decades as a member of the band that helps performers.

"The criteria we look for is the ability to play to an audience, stage presence and a good voice," he said.

Jurgilas said the telethon is going to be at a different venue this year, Place Des Arts.

"We simply do this because we can," he said.

"I speak for the collective that we will continue to do this as long as we can."

Jurgilas said it's not too late to audition for the telethon.

The auditions run 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. both Oct. 22-23 at All Nations Church. 

This year's telethon is Dec. 3 and can be watched online and on your local CTV Northern Ontario channel. More details here.