LONDONDERRY — Local singers yearning for their 15 minutes of fame take note: The Londonderry Old Home Day Committee is seeking contestants for its third annual Londonderry Sings contest, to be held during the August Old Home Day festivities.

Formerly known as Londonderry Idol, the contest is modeled after the popular television singing competition and is open to nonprofessional singers of all ages.

A new tradition at Old Home Day, the contest has quickly soared in popularity over the years, according to event organizer Mary Wing Soares.

During the initial event in 2010, 13 singers performed inside the packed Mammoth Road Grange hall, where it was standing room only.

“Our judges had such a difficult time; there was a sing-off to break the tie,” Soares recalled.

Last August, the event was moved to the Londonderry High School cafeteria, where the audience filled the seats.

This year's event will be held at Matthew Thornton Elementary School, located near the town's center, and will be limited to one dozen singers. The school is an ideal spot for the concert, event organizers noted, since the gymnasium is equipped with a large stage.

“It's wonderful the variety of talent out there,” said Soares. “Whether you're 13 or 99, all are welcome.”

Contestants are asked to submit a YouTube link of themselves performing a “family friendly” type of song for up to three minutes. Online links may be emailed to mary@londonderryoldhomeday.com.

Contest entries will be accepted through Aug. 10.

Applicants are asked to include their name, address, age, phone number, email address and the title of their song.

Once all of the applications are in, members of the Old Home Day Committee will select the top 12 contestants based on stage presence, singing ability and song selection.

Those who've been selected for the final round will be notified of their winning status by Aug. 10.

The Londonderry Sings contest will take place on Saturday, Aug. 18, from 1 to 3 p.m., when contestants will sing for up to 5 minutes, either a capella or with music provided by a karaoke machine.

The first prize winner will earn $100 in cash, with $75 and $50 in various prizes going to the second- and third-place winners, respectively.

For more information, visit www.oldhomeday.com.

aguilmet@newstote.com