The first Manitoba Country Voice Amateur Talent Contest in Portage la Prairie was an unqualified success.

The William Glesby Centre was sold out Saturday night, as ten contestants vied for cash prizes.

Co-organizer Charlie Brennan's amazed at the response, and feels this is important for the Portage music scene, especially for young performers.

"This was so successful, I think word of mouth will get around, and I think we'll probably build the audience over the years," he say, "It's great for the contestants, especially the winners, because it's great exposure for them. All the proceeds from the show are going to help the winners, this year and next year, with recording studio time, or voice training, or instrument lessons."

Co-organizer Colleen Flynn hoped for something like this for years.

First place winner Angie Nickels receiving her certificate accompanied by 500 dollars, from Newton Enterprise's Wayne Klippenstein.

"What this show has done for the community...the contestants that participated in it, they've already formed a friendship and a bond," she says, adding, "I've already got two sponsors that have agreed to sponsor us next year. Everybody's coming back. It's awesome -- it's more than I ever dreamed of."

The judges selected Angie Nickels as the winner. She never thought she'd win, because she didn't make the original line-up, and was called back when someone dropped out.

"I love to sing, and I love music, music's been my life, and it always has been," she says, "But, no, I did not think I'd be at this point. This has been a great experience, and I'm so glad that they're going to continue this."

Second place went to Jessica Lukin, who admits it's a surprise.

"But it's been really fun. You do have to prepare for it lots, but it's worth it in the end," she says, "Since I am young, I'm going to try to compete in these upcoming ones (Manitoba Country Voice), because I want to pursue a career."

Travis Rintoul got the nod for third place, and feels this is a great venue for up and coming artists.

"Where people can actually come, and pay attention to the lyrics, and the emotion in each song, that's just a fantastic opportunity for any budding artist."

Here are pictures.